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. Originally founded in 1979, FOG has donated over $10 million to both national and Southern California college, high school and non-profit golf-focused organizations. Legendary professional golfer and Bel-Air Country Club teaching pro Eddie Merrins (“The Little Pro”) helped organize FOG’s first annual golf tournament intended to benefit the neighboring UCLA’s men’s golf program. Since then, FOG has hosted 42 annual charity golf tournaments at Bel-Air Country Club 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 and Collin Morikawa. 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.

Our Story

Since 1986, FOG has been working closely with the CIF to provide high school boys and girls the resources to play competitive high school golf. Not all students can afford to play golf, yet many have the talent and the desire. FOG has provided funds, equipment and other resources to the three most prominent southern California CIF sections. Every year students and coaches throughout the region send letters thanking FOG for their support and recognizing that without FOG many teams and students simply would not be able to play.

Historical Timeline

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.

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.

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Sal Cimbolo
Chairman & CEO
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Ted Coyne
Vice President
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William L Harper Jr
Treasurer
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Eddie Merrins
Founder