Purpose

The Stoughton Area Golf Scholarship Fund aims to support local high school students who have demonstrated dedication to the sport of golf. This scholarship provides financial assistance for college-related expenses, encouraging student-athletes to pursue higher education and recognizing their commitment to both academics and personal development.

Eligible Schools

• Stoughton High School
• McFarland High School
• Oregon High School
• Other neighboring area high schools

Scholarship Award

• Number of Scholarships: One or more scholarships will be awarded annually, depending on available funds.
• Amount: The amount will vary based on available funds each year, typically between $500–$1,500.
• Award Term: This can be awarded as a one-year scholarship or as a multi-year award, depending on the availability of funds and the recipient’s continued eligibility.
• Payment Distribution: The scholarship payment will be sent directly to the admissions office of the recipient’s college or technical school on their behalf.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, students must meet the following requirements:

1. Participation in Golf:
   • Must have participated in high school golf for at least two years, either on the varsity or junior varsity team.

2. College Enrollment:
   • Must be enrolled or accepted into a college, university, or technical school for the upcoming academic year.

3. Intended Major:
   • Applicants will be asked to indicate their intended major or field of study and how it aligns with their future goals.

4. Golf Characteristics and Values:
   • Applicants must demonstrate key characteristics learned through golf, including:
     • Honesty and Integrity: Playing by the rules and maintaining ethical standards.
     • Respect: Displaying sportsmanship toward competitors, coaches, and others.
     • Accountability: Taking responsibility for personal actions on and off the course.
     • Trustworthiness: Earning the trust of teammates, coaches, and the community.
     • Perseverance and Commitment: Demonstrating dedication to improvement and resilience in overcoming challenges.

5. Community Engagement:
   • Preference may be given to students who have shown leadership or volunteered within their school or community.

6. GPA Requirement:
   • Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5.
   • Must be a full-time student taking 12 or more credits per semester.

Application Process

Applicants must submit the following:

• Application Form: Basic information, including high school, golf participation, intended major, and college plans.
• Essay (500 words or less): “How has participating in golf shaped your future goals, and how will this scholarship help you achieve them?”
• Letter of Recommendation: From a coach, teacher, or community leader, highlighting the applicant’s character, values, and golf experience.
• Transcript: An unofficial copy showing current GPA.

Application Deadline: May 1^st

Selection Process

1. Review Committee: A small selection committee will review applications, consisting of representatives from the community, local golf enthusiasts, and possibly a coach or educator.
2. Selection Criteria: Applications will be evaluated based on:
   • Dedication to golf and demonstration of golf characteristics (honesty, integrity, respect, etc.)
   • Strength of the essay response
   • Alignment between the student’s intended major and future goals
   • Demonstrated need and alignment with the scholarship’s mission

Award Renewal (for Multi-Year Scholarships)

For multi-year recipients, the scholarship will be renewed annually based on:

• Proof of continued enrollment in college or technical school.
• Maintenance of good academic standing (GPA 2.5 or higher).
• A brief annual progress update from the student.

Award Announcement and Ceremony

• Scholarships will be announced at a community event, awards banquet, or communicated directly to winners and their families.
• Winners may also be recognized on school websites, social media, or in local newspapers to promote the scholarship program and community involvement.

Fund Management

The fund will be overseen by a small board or committee to ensure transparency and appropriate allocation of scholarships. Surplus funds, if any, will roll over for future scholarships or be used to increase the number or value of awards the following year.

Conclusion

The Stoughton Area Golf Scholarship Fund promotes the values of sportsmanship, perseverance, and academic success. By supporting student-athletes from Stoughton, McFarland, Oregon, and neighboring communities, we aim to foster future leaders who embody the principles learned through golf—honesty, respect, accountability, and commitment—carrying these lessons into the next phase of their lives.

Application Submission:
Email your application to Rod Bakken at [email protected]
Subject: Scholarship Applicant – Your Name

(please attach application form with email)