History of the
John Webb Winter Golf Tournament

John Webb was one of those individuals who may meet you as a stranger but within ten minutes, you were somehow more than an acquaintance. His 'acquaintances' and friends were many and varied. In a moment, in December 2001, he died of a heart attack.

As a music educator in Escambia County Florida for 25 years, John impacted many students that continue to celebrate the music he loved so well, whether as teachers, performers, or 'weekend' music lovers.

'Webb' loved baseball. He played it. He watched it. And he was blessed with two sons that played the game and loved it with him. Playing 'over 30' and 'over 40' baseball and participating in the tournament with his friends in southern Florida was a highlight each year.

After his death, his friends wanted to express their support for his children in some tangible way. Janet, 22, was married and working in Christian ministry in Texas. John Jr., also 22, was drafted in 1999 by the Chicago Cubs as a pitcher. James, 14, and in high school was a cancer survivor.

A golf tournament, another sport that John enjoyed, could raise money for James, covering the medical expenses not paid by the insurance company. And so the John Webb Winter Golf Tournament began.

The first tournament held at Creekside Golf Club in January 2003 was a success! With more than 30 participants and sponsors, $887+ in profit was given to Sacred Heart Children's Hospital to buy video games, puzzles, art supplies, and other diversions for children facing life-threatening illness. In 2004 with 80 participants, the profits rose to $2000 and many more "gifts" were purchased for the children!

James continued to live his life and became an accomplished musician in high school and praise and worship leader in his church.

At the age of 17, James died from the cancer. It seemed to make sense to continue the tournament and help children and young people, like James. After all, John Webb had helped and encouraged so many young people in his life.

John Jr., along with his wife, Megan, twin sister, Janet, and her husband, his mother and stepfather, and his father's many friends, continues to support this tournament with three goals in mind:

• Raise money for the needs of the children at Sacred Heart Children's Hospital through the Child Life Program
• Support children and their families that are facing life-threatening illnesses
  
          and
  
  
• Come together each year for a great golf tournament!

Join them, whether as a player and/or sponsor, for some great fun in 2009 at the Scenic Hills Country Club!!!