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Mainprize Regional Park was filled with support, community spirit, and remembrance as over 160 golfers took part in the Forever 41 Texas Scramble Golf Tournament in memory of Arie Schimmel.
Michelle Walsh, general manager of Mainprize, said the day was about both honouring Arie and shining a light on an important cause.
“Today, we are remembering Arie Schimmel in a Forever 41, Texas Scramble Golf Tournament,” Walsh explained. “It’s to celebrate him and bring awareness to mental health and suicide. It’s really a day for his family, his friends, and the community.”
The event was organized by the Forever 41 Committee, including Dakota Dreyer, Devin Tessier, Ryan Thompson, and Arie’s family. Arie and Melissa's children played a central role in making the day possible, with overwhelming support from sponsors across the southeast.
Walsh noted the strength of the turnout. “Right now, we have over 160 golfers and a packed house for supper with a silent auction as well. The support has been overwhelming, and we are truly grateful. Arie was actually one of our own team members, so this means a lot to us.”
The Forever 41 Foundation was created by Arie’s sons, Austin and Attison Schimmel, following his passing in January. In a statement, they shared their mission:
“We know that nothing can bring back our Dad, but to honour him, we wanted to make it our mission to speak up for Men’s Mental Health and Suicide Awareness. We want to do the best we can to make sure no other family has to go through what we have gone through.”
The tournament featured strong sponsorship support, including multiple beer hole sponsors, a putting green sponsor, and dozens of donations toward the silent auction. Funds raised will go toward mental health awareness initiatives and local supports.
For Walsh and the staff at Mainprize, the day was deeply meaningful. “It’s really brought home the importance of mental health and suicide awareness. It’s been a tough start to our year, but we’ve all come back a little bit stronger and more compassionate. At the end of the day, this is honouring Arie, and I’m super proud of this community for coming together.”
The Forever 41 Golf Tournament is set to become an annual event, continuing Arie’s legacy while opening up vital conversations about mental health and suicide prevention in the southeast.