The first Swampcat Classic is set to bring a full field of golfers to Shannon Greens Golf Club this weekend, raising funds for the Laurence Manning Academy Student Council through a new event led entirely by a senior.
Caroline Prothro, Student Council president at Laurence Manning Academy, organized the tournament as a way to support the school while creating an event the community could rally around.
“I have personally grown to love the game of golf, growing up on a golf course my whole life,” Prothro said. “When I was lucky enough to be named the Student Council President, I knew immediately that a golf tournament fundraiser was just what I wanted to do. I knew a golf tournament would be something anyone can enjoy, while still supporting the school I love.”
The 3-man captain’s choice tournament will be held Saturday, May 9, at Shannon Greens Golf Club. Entry fees are $90 per player or $270 per team, with food and beverages included and cash prizes awarded to the top three teams.
As graduation approaches, Prothro said the tournament also became an opportunity to leave something meaningful behind for the student council.
“Being a senior and only having a few short days left, I wanted to make sure I left our Student Council in the best way possible, and what is better than a good day of golf,” she said.
Behind the scenes, the planning process has involved balancing logistics, sponsorships and tournament formatting to create a smooth experience for players.
“The planning process has been sporadic in the way information has filtered in,” Prothro said. “The biggest challenge I have had has been getting the teams and the format down to where we ensure a fun, quality, but fair event.”
Despite those hurdles, the tournament quickly filled all available spots. Prothro said she initially hoped for about 15 teams but ultimately reached the maximum field of 24.
“My goal for this first year was to just try to get the word out as much as possible, and honestly take what I could get,” she said. “I was hoping for at least 15 teams, but we ended up with 24 which is our maximum number of teams we can have, so that is amazing.”
Players can expect more than just a competitive round of golf. Prothro said the day was planned to encourage fellowship and showcase one of the area’s growing courses.
“Participants can expect a full day of golf, great camaraderie, a great meal provided by D&H, and all enjoying this on a good and up and coming golf course,” she said.
Community support has also helped drive the tournament’s early success, particularly through local sponsors and alumni.
“Fortunately, we have a great community and amazing alumni base in Manning that has been very supportive of this new and hopefully annual event,” Prothro said. “I want to personally thank each sponsor for supporting our student council and school event.”
While team registration is now closed, Prothro said there are still ways for residents to support the event through volunteering and sponsorship opportunities.
“Fortunately, and unfortunately, we have a full field,” she said. “However, if someone would like to volunteer, or sponsor we could certainly use the help, and will try to accommodate any sponsors going forward.”
Looking ahead, Prothro hopes the Swampcat Classic becomes a tradition future student council leaders continue to build on.
“Yes, I would love for this to become an annual tradition,” she said. “I think the long-term success truly depends on the student council in the upcoming years. If they are motivated and willing to put in the work, I think the Swampcat Classic could be an event that lasts for years.”
For now, though, she hopes players walk away having simply enjoyed the experience.
“I hope that everyone just enjoys the day of golf, and has a good time,” she said.
All proceeds from the tournament will benefit the Laurence Manning Academy Student Council.
