The Russell Henley Junior Championship presented by Synovus has been selected as the AJGA's Newcomer of the Year, recognizing an exceptional inaugural event in 2025 that delivered a championship-caliber experience while creating a meaningful impact throughout the Columbus, Georgia, community.
A driving force behind the championship's success was tournament host Russell Henley, who played an active role throughout tournament week. Henley spent several hours on-site each day engaging with players and families, including hosting an impromptu putting contest following the opening round. He also participated in a special Q&A session alongside Masters champion Larry Mize, with broadcaster Mark Immelman serving as moderator.
"It is truly an honor to have the Russell Henley Junior Championship presented by Synovus recognized as the AJGA's Newcomer of the Year. From the very beginning, our goal was to create a first-class experience for the world's best junior golfers while making a positive impact on the Columbus community. This recognition is a testament to the incredible support from Synovus, Green Island Country Club, our volunteers and everyone who helped make the inaugural event such a success. I'm excited to continue welcoming these talented young players to our community and building on the momentum of a great first year."
The community embraced the championship from the outset. The Mayor of Columbus attended the Junior-Am lunch and Q&A session to welcome participants and guests, while Green Island Country Club provided a first-class venue and atmosphere throughout the week. Players were treated to a variety of unique experiences, including signed flags from Henley, Onward Reserve t-shirts provided by Synovus, donated water bottles and complimentary breakfast and coffee stations for players and parents each morning.
Backed by presenting sponsor Synovus, which has merged with Pinnacle Financial Partners since the 2025 tournament, the championship also generated significant philanthropic impact. In the inaugural year, the championship raised more than $107,000, resulting in net proceeds of over $55,000. This success wouldn’t be possible without the local committee’s support, efforts and overall desire to showcase Columbus’s passionate golf community.
"Columbus is a community that understands the value of investing in young people and creating opportunities that bring families and neighbors together. As title sponsor for the Russell Henley Championship, we're building on our partnership with Russell and his work with the AJGA to help bring this level of junior golf to our city. It's a meaningful way for us to support young athletes and share the relationship-driven approach that defines Pinnacle."
The success of the inaugural event was also made possible through the efforts of a dedicated tournament committee and an extensive volunteer base. A committee of 12 members worked alongside approximately 35 to 40 volunteers each day to fill every critical position, including timing stations, shuttle operations, spotter assignments and driving range support.
"It is an incredible honor to have the Russell Henley Junior Championship presented by Synovus recognized for its impact in our community in year one. From the beginning, the goal was to create an elevated player and family experience in a championship environment. Synovus, Green Island Country Club and the Henley family were immediately on board. With the full support of the Green Island Country Club membership and volunteers, the tournament provided an experience more memorable than we could have initially imagined. This is a formula our tournament committee plans to repeat over the years to come."
The tournament's first-year success demonstrated the power of collaboration between sponsors, volunteers, community leaders and tournament partners, creating an event that left a lasting impression on competitors and families alike.
"To have the Russell Henley Junior Championship presented by Synovus recognized as the AJGA's Newcomer of the Year is an incredible honor and a testament to the passion and commitment of everyone involved. From Russell Henley, Synovus, now Pinnacle, and Green Island Country Club to our outstanding tournament committee and volunteers, the entire community came together to create a memorable weekend for our players and families. We are proud of what was accomplished in year one and excited to continue building on that success for years to come."
The Newcomer of the Year Award will be officially presented at this year’s Russell Henley Junior Championship presented by Pinnacle Financial Partners, held September 4-7, 2026, at Green Island Country Club in Columbus, Georgia.