Smash GC’s inaugural Smash for Success program has officially wrapped up its first year in style, with a heartfelt nod to none other than Jon Gee, the man who’s made it his mission to empower young golfers.
In front of a cheering crowd at the LIV Golf League Dallas Team Championship, Gee was honoured as the 2024 Mentor of the Year.
This recognition comes as no surprise to those who’ve seen the way he’s dedicated himself to lifting up the next generation through his SL Gee Foundation.
Jon Gee isn’t your typical mentor. He’s a man on a mission. After founding the SL Gee Foundation in memory of his son, Sebastian, he’s been a force of nature in the world of junior golf.
But for him, it’s not just about teaching kids how to swing a club; it’s about creating real opportunities for them, on and off the course.
His foundation has opened doors for kids to chase both their academic and athletic dreams by offering scholarships, hosting training camps, and organizing tournaments.
The bond between Gee and Smash GC started back in 2023, during the pilot year of Smash for Success.
He brought a group of his junior golfers to the LIV Golf D.C. tournament, where they were treated to a VIP experience they’ll likely never forget.
Since then, he’s remained a core part of the program, helping it grow into a genuine force for good.
Brooks Koepka, “I wouldn’t be here today without people like Jon Gee, who help empower and foster the love of golf in juniors.
As a father of a son, I was incredibly moved by Jon’s story and how he has transformed his pain into purpose by impacting the lives of thousands of children and providing opportunities that will not only enhance the world of golf, but society as a whole.
As a team, Jon aligns with everything we hope to do with Smash for Success and our mission to empower young people through golf to enable them to achieve success both on-and-off course.”
And this year, his dedication earned him a well-deserved trip to Dallas, where Smash GC, led by captain Brooks Koepka and teammates Talor Gooch, Graeme McDowell, and Jason Kokrak, celebrated Gee’s impact in a big way.
During the Dallas Team Championship, Jon Gee wasn’t just a spectator. He got the full VIP treatment: flying in from D.C., getting an all-access pass to Smash GC’s team practices, and standing right inside the ropes as the action unfolded on the course.
The experience was capped off with Gee being publicly honoured at the LIV Golf League’s hospitality venue, Club 54, and receiving a $1,000 donation to his foundation, which continues to break down barriers for kids in golf.
At the end of the day, Jon Gee’s recognition as Mentor of the Year is more than just a title.
It’s a reflection of what happens when passion and purpose meet, and when golf becomes a vehicle for real change.
Jon Gee, “What a great honour to meet the Smash GC and be presented with this award.
The Smash team gives back to the community through scholarship community engagement and growing the game with junior golfers all over the country.”
Thanks to Smash GC’s Smash for Success initiative and Gee’s relentless efforts, young golfers everywhere are being given the tools and opportunities to thrive. And that’s a win we can all celebrate.
