The Mitchell Junior Mustangs are swapping their hockey sticks for golf clubs next month, launching their first-ever fundraising golf tournament to help gear up for the season ahead.
The Junior Mustangs Golf Tournament will be held Saturday, August 9 at the La Broquerie Golf Club and promises a day of laughs, competition, and plenty of chirping—on and off the green.
“It’s kind of like a preseason warmup for the chirping you’ll do on the ice,” jokes Scott Toews with the organization.
Fun and fundraising
Following a successful return to junior hockey last season, the Mustangs are looking to keep the momentum going. Toews says the tournament is a chance to reconnect with fans, players, and alumni while raising money to cover team expenses.
“Every home game costs around $1,100 to $1,200,” says Toews. “Between ice rentals, officials, and gear—plus the pucks that somehow keep disappearing—it all adds up pretty quick.”
The event will follow a Texas scramble format, with teams of four golfers competing together. Registration costs $500 per team, which includes prizing on select holes and a meal at the turn. All proceeds support the Mitchell Junior Mustangs.
Toews says anyone is welcome to sign up, though he’s hoping for a strong showing from current and former players, coaches, parents, and fans.
“There’s a great community around the Mustangs, and we want to keep building on that.”
A growing fanbase
After five years without a junior team in town, Toews says the return of the Mustangs last season was met with overwhelming enthusiasm.
“It came back with a vengeance,” he says. “The support we’ve had—especially during our promo nights and playoff games—has been just incredible.”
He describes the atmosphere in the rink as “top-notch” and credits the fans for helping make junior hockey in Mitchell something special again.
“We’re lucky. Events like this tournament help us keep that energy going year-round.”
Keeping it light
While fundraising is the main goal, Toews says he’s also looking forward to seeing some playful competition—especially during the longest drive contest.
“I’m looking forward to seeing some of the competitions between the fathers and sons, see who can outdrive who in the longest drive competition,” he laughs. “My little guy’s not quite there yet so I can still outdrive him.”
Although the event is a fundraiser, success won’t be measured in dollars, he adds.
“I want people to leave the event saying, ‘That was worth my time. That was such a fun day.’”
To register, click here to visit the team website. The deadline for team entries is approaching quickly.
-With files from Carly Koop.