Earlier this year, Vanessa Estrella of Spokane received the first Junior Golf Opportunity Grant given by the Washington Golf Foundation, and she has been making the most of the confidence shown to her. She used the grant to help her gain more competition experience, paying for her membership into the Washington Junior Golf Association, and paying her entry fees to five junior tournaments, including the Junior World Qualifier. The grant also helped pay for new golf equipment.
A junior at Ferris High School at the time, she had a successful spring golf season, winning a few tournaments, including the Eleen Northcutt Invitational, held at Wandermere Golf Course in Spokane. It was the first time in nearly 30 years that a Ferris golfer had won the tournament. She was named to First Team All-GSL (Greater Spokane League).
Vanessa was named to the First Team All-GSL (Greater Spokane League).
“This opportunity means a great deal to our family,” said her dad, Paul Zacapantzi. “We are very proud of Vanessa. She works very hard, both in school and on the course, and receiving this grant has motivated her even more to keep growing, competing, and representing the game with strong character. We are looking forward to seeing what she can do now, as she begins her senior year.”
Vanessa was selected to receive the grant by a committee at the Washington Golf Foundation. “This grant is designed to support young golfers who show exceptional potential and a genuine passion for the sport,” said Matt Brown, the Foundation’s director of development and donor engagement. “Vanessa truly stood out among a highly competitive field of applicants, and we’re very happy to see her succeed in the game and continue to grow.”
Her dad also sees the growth in Vanessa. “We’re grateful for the investment in her development,” he says, “and we’re also grateful for everything your organization does to support young golfers.”
The future looks bright.
Opportunities to apply for scholarships and grants provided by the Washington Golf Foundation for 2027 will be available this fall. Click here for more information and to apply when the application process opens.
