The Organization

Friends of Golf (FOG) supports scholastic golfers with resources, equipment and programs so that they can compete and excel in a sport that promotes character, integrity and fellowship.

THE ORGANIZATION

Friends of Golf (FOG) supports student athlete golfers by instilling the values of honesty, ethics, and fellowship with a true appreciation for the game. From the time boys and girls enter grade school through the end of their college experience, FOG makes it possible for aspiring junior golfers (irrespective of economic standing) to play, compete and excel in this exceptional sport. 

Our Story

Originally founded in 1979, FOG has donated over $11 million to support junior golfers. Back then, legendary professional golfer and Bel-Air Country Club teaching pro Eddie Merrins (“The Little Pro”) helped organize FOG’s first annual golf tournament. Since then, FOG has hosted over 40 annual charity golf tournaments at Bel-Air Country Club and and honored some of the game’s top stars including Jack Nicklaus, Sir Nick Faldo, Annika Sorenstam, Phil Mickelson, Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, Lorena Ochoa, Collin Morikawa, Max Homa and Julie Inkster. Friends of Golf, Inc. is recognized as a non-profit, tax-deductible organization through Federal I.D. #95-3668541 and the State of California Franchise Tax Board Organization #1058257.

1979

Friends of College Golf Launch

1980

1st charity fundraising event held at Bel-Air Country Club

1981

1st contribution of $30,000 to UCLA

1984

1st College Golf Scholarship to UCLA

1985

1st legendary golf honoree, Lee Trevino

1986

Southern Section of C.I.F. added to the list of FOG beneficiaries

1987

Additional colleges and universities supported

1990

City Section of C.I.F. support added

1994

Dinah Shore Trophy & LPGA added

2002

Legendary Honoree – Byron Nelson

2012

Ken Venturi “Spirit of Giving” Award established

2014

A peak contribution of $350,000 was reached in support payments to hundreds of youth golf teams

2015

FOG embarked on partnerships with SCGA Junior, The First Tee of Los Angeles and SCPGA Junior Tour furthering FOG’s commitment to youth golf.

2016

More than $7 million raised to date for high schools, colleges, foundations and specialized golf programs; and San Diego Section of CIF support added.

2018

Hosted the inaugural Evening with Champions event and honored Jim Furyk and Sir Nick Faldo.

2024

Reached the milestone of $11 million in funding for junior golfers.

2025

Hosted our 45th Annual FOG Charity Golf Tournament and honored Sahith Theegala.

Our Leadership

FOG has the good fortune to have many captains of industry and entrepreneurs serving on its Board of Directors. Whether they are participating in a specific call to action or heading a committee, they give of themselves tirelessly and we are proud to have them on our team.

team_image
Sal Cimbolo
Chairman & CEO
team_image
Peter Best
President
team_image
Ted Coyne
Vice President & Tournament Chairman
team_image
William L Harper Jr
Treasurer
team_image
Al Keahi
Grand Prize Chairman