2023 Tournament Director
Tournaments
2023 Tournament Director
Shelley O ’ Keefe
The U . S . Kids Golf Foundation is made up of professionals like Shelley O ’ Keefe , a standout athlete who has dedicated her career to creating enjoyable family experiences in the Northern California area .
“ I get to give back to a game that has meant so much to me and my family ,” O ’ Keefe states . “ There are so many relationships and interactions that take place at a Local Tour event . To be a part of that , to help facilitate that , is one of the most gratifying things I ’ ve been able to experience .”
O ’ Keefe recently overcame ovarian cancer , hosting Local Tour events while battling through the effects of her treatment . She also caddied for her sister , Jill McGill , soon after being declared “ cancer free ”, as she guided her to a victory in the 2022 U . S . Senior Women ’ s Open .
“ Anytime you overcome challenges , you learn . Going through chemo , I needed a reason to get out of bed every day . Being a part of this community that we ’ ve built was a great purpose for me . And I think watching me work taught the kids that it ’ s not always about being the most talented , the smartest , or the one that always wins . Just showing up , battling , overcoming trials . Showing grit . There ’ s a true value in that . I tell the same thing to the kids that I told Jill during her Senior Women ’ s Open tournament . Keep fighting , keep persevering . The effort and process matter , the results will take care of themselves .”
O ’ Keefe will run five different Local Tours in the Northern California in 2024 . Her commitment to the families and the players goes far beyond seeing them succeed in golf .
“ Putting a medal around a kid ’ s neck for playing well is great ; I love that . But the real joy is seeing the bonds between parent and child happening in real-time . Seeing competitors become friends , seeing families become close with other families . I ’ m honored to be a part of that story . I wouldn ’ t trade this for anything .”
Tournaments
| There are 140 Local Tour Directors operating in 180 markets around the world . | In the United States , we have 85 directors in 95 markets . | Internationally , there are 55 directors managing 85 markets .