FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MEDIA CONTACT:
Linzy Browne
540-658-8681
Stafford, VA, October 14, 2024 – The American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) has successfully concluded its third consecutive year of the Stafford Junior All-Star Tournament, held from June 17-20, 2024, at the Gauntlet Golf Club in Stafford County. This annual event, which features elite junior golfers from across the country and beyond, has grown into a cornerstone event for Stafford County, combining top-tier competition with significant contributions to the local economy and charitable causes.
The tournament was attracted to Stafford County starting in 2022. Held from August 14-18, 2022, the event generated a direct economic impact of $206,733 and saw visitor spending reach $85,084. That year, the Junior-Am Tournament benefitted three local charities, with $10,370 donated to each. The tournament proved to be more than just a showcase of golfing talent— it offered a substantial boost to local businesses and economic impact.
Building on this success, the 2023 AJGA Stafford Junior All-Star Tournament took place on June 25, 2023, drawing junior golfers from across the U.S. and seven different countries. The event saw increased participation and engagement, raising over $24,950 for Special Olympics Virginia – Area 11 and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Fredericksburg. With an estimated economic impact of $194,000, the tournament once again demonstrated its capacity to not only attract golf enthusiasts but also drive substantial economic growth in the Stafford region.
In 2024, the AJGA returned for its third tournament at the Gauntlet Golf Club from June 17-20. This year’s event saw a surge in economic benefits, bringing the combined direct economic impact for the 2022, 2023, and 2024 tournaments to an impressive $774,062, with $321,195 in visitor spending alone. Over the three years, 307 players from 19 states and 7 countries participated, accompanied by 1,003 visitors who contributed to the local economy by staying in hotels, dining in restaurants, and supporting businesses.
Charitable giving remains a key component of the tournament’s legacy. From 2022 to 2024, the event raised $139,980, with $69,990 directly benefiting local organizations, including Stafford Junction, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Fredericksburg, Stafford Education Foundation, Special Olympics Virginia, SERVE, and Stafford County Fire & Rescue. Additionally, $69,900 was contributed to the AJGA ACE Grant, which supports young golfers in need of financial assistance to participate in AJGA events.
The AJGA tournament in Stafford County, attracting not just junior golf competitors but also tourists and supporters from across the globe. According to Jack Rowley, Chairman of the Stafford County Economic Development Authority (EDA), “Stafford County’s partnership with the AJGA has been instrumental in driving both economic development and community engagement. The tournament brings more than just a golf competition—it’s a way for us to invest in our local economy and support vital charitable organizations. We are proud to sponsor this event and witness its impact on our community.”
The AJGA Junior Am Golf Tournament has proven to be a tremendous success for Stafford County, showcasing our community as a premier destination for tourism while driving significant economic impact. Beyond the sport, the event has fostered meaningful charitable contributions, leaving a lasting positive impact on local organizations. For more information contact the Stafford EDA online.
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About Stafford County Department of Economic Development | Stafford EDA:
The Stafford County Department of Economic Development is the sales and customer service arm for Stafford County, Virginia, committed to advancing expansion and investment for the community. As the official economic development organization of Stafford County, our mission is to promote, solicit and encourage business growth through marketing and media services that enhance economic activity and quality of life within the Stafford region. Stafford County is located halfway between Washington, DC and Richmond, VA. In partnership with the Stafford Economic Development Authority (EDA), the Stafford County Department of Economic Development and the EDA has helped finance and support business growth in Stafford since the EDA’s inception in 1970. In addition to business loan programs, in recent years, the EDA has helped develop a number of vacant and underused properties in Stafford and helped launch the Virginia Smart Community Testbed. For more information on Stafford’s Economic Development and the Stafford EDA, visit www.GoStaffordVA.com and www.StaffordEDA.com, and follow on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, or get connected through the monthly business newsletter.
About American Junior Golf Association (AJGA):
The AJGA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is dedicated to the overall growth and development of young men and women who aspire to earn college golf scholarships through competitive junior golf.