SIOUX FALLS, SD — First Tee – South Dakota and the South Dakota Golf Association Junior Golf Foundation are proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 SDGA Junior Golf Foundation Scholarships.
Five South Dakota high school graduates have each been awarded a $1,500 scholarship in recognition of their achievements in golf, academics, leadership, community service, and character. Scholarship recipients are selected through a competitive process that places a strong emphasis on participation in SDGA programming and First Tee – South Dakota, as well as academic success, volunteerism, integrity, sportsmanship, and leadership.
The 2026 scholarship recipients are:
- Rhys Heiberger, Brookings High School – South Dakota State University (Human Biology)
A multi-sport athlete and dedicated First Tee – South Dakota coach, Rhys has combined competitive success in golf and hockey with a passion for coaching and mentoring. - Will Peterson, Brandon Valley High School – University of Sioux Falls (Statistics)
Will’s golf career will continue at the University of Sioux Falls while pursuing a degree in Statistics, bringing a strong combination of academic achievement and competitive experience. - Rylan Horning, Saint Thomas More High School – South Dakota State University (Pharmacy)
A two-time Class A State Champion and 2025 Junior Female Golfer of the Year, Rylan will compete for the South Dakota State University women’s golf team while studying Pharmacy. - Maddie Childs, Mitchell High School – Augustana University (Exercise Science)
A three-time All-State golfer and state runner-up, Maddie will continue her success on the course as a member of the Augustana women’s golf team. - Jadyn McDonald, Chester Area High School – Augustana University (Mathematics & Pre-Law)
A two-time region champion and proven leader on and off the golf course, Jadyn will join the Augustana women’s golf team while pursuing studies in Mathematics and Pre-Law.
The recipients represent communities across South Dakota and have distinguished themselves through their dedication to the game of golf, success in the classroom, and commitment to serving others. Several recipients have also given back to the game through coaching and mentoring with First Tee – South Dakota.
“These students represent the very best of junior golf in South Dakota,” said Julie Jansa, CEO of First Tee – South Dakota. “Their accomplishments in the classroom, on the golf course, and in their communities reflect the qualities this scholarship was created to recognize. We are proud to support them as they pursue their educational and career goals.”
The SDGA Junior Golf Foundation Scholarship program reflects the organization’s commitment to supporting young people who use their experiences in golf to build skills and values that will serve them throughout their lives.
