All of the dollars have been counted and all the t’s crossed and, by all accounts, the Tee It Up for Kids Sake golf tournament was a great success.

The four-man scramble is an annual event of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pike County and all the proceeds benefit the organization’s programs.

Melinda Conner, activities coordinator, said the golf tournament is Big Brothers Big Sisters’ major fundraiser and it is also an opportunity to raise awareness of the organization’s programs and a recruiting tool for the Bigs.

“This year the Tee It Up for Kids Sake golf tournament raised $10,000 for our programs and those dollars make a difference in the lives of a lot of young people,” Conner said. “Right now, we have 60 matches and that’s great but we also have 165 kids who are waiting for a match. Hopefully, the golf tournament generated greater awareness of Big Brothers Big Sister and created more interest.”

The success of the tournament was due to two factors — those who teed it up for the kids and the sponsors of the event.

The first place team in the tournament was Derick Bracewell, Warren Kelly, Mickey Dichiara and Seth Goree. Right on the heels of the low scorers were Stewart Taylor, Will Mullis, Mike Davis and Bob Lambert. The third place team was Rick Cochran, Matt Qualls, Jeramy Cline and Jerry Miller.”

“We appreciate the support of all those who participated and I think they all had a really great time,” Conner said. “And, I can’t say enough to thank our sponsors. They really came through for us.”

The Eagle sponsors for the tournament were Airtek Construction, Bell Outdoor Signs, DeMarcus Ware of the Dallas Cowboys, First National Bank of Brundidge and Troy, Sanders Lead, Troy Health and Rehabilitation Center, Wal-Mart DC 7019 and Robin Sullivan and Jimmy Barron.

Troy Bank & Trust was the tournament’s appetizer and meal sponsor.

Birdie sponsors were Alpha Tau Omega of Troy University, K&W Plastics, Pepsi Cola of Luverne, The Printing Press, Don Walker’s Western Wear and the Troy Exchange Club.

Hole sponsors were Colin McCrary and Auto Sports and Tee sponsors were Army Aviation, Witherington Group, SARHA, Lambda Chi Alpha, Dr. Patrician Block and Dr. Bonnie Cannon. The Hole-in-One sponsor was Sanbuck.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pike County has been serving children and families since 1998.

Through the program, 227 children have been matched with adult mentors.

“The need for mentors remains high,” Conner said. “Those who have the time and a place in their heart for children are encouraged to contact us to find out more about the opportunities to be a part of Big Brothers Big Sisters.”

For more information, call 566-2454.