Apply Now: 2026 Ron Balicki Scholarship for Aspiring Golf Journalists
The Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA) is currently accepting applications for the prestigious 2026 Ron Balicki Scholarship, with a submission deadline of February 27, 2026. This scholarship provides two $2,500 awards—one for each semester of the 2026 academic year—targeted toward high school seniors and college undergraduate or graduate students aspiring to make their mark in golf journalism.
About the Ron Balicki Scholarship
Established in memory of Ron Balicki, a dedicated sports journalist known for his lifelong commitment to covering the game of golf, this scholarship honors his influence in the field. Balicki was instrumental in elevating the presence of college golf, having virtually invented the college golf beat during his tenure with Golfweek starting in 1983.
Applicant Requirements
To apply for the Ron Balicki Scholarship, candidates must submit the following:
- Three work samples showcasing their writing ability.
- Two letters of recommendation to affirm their qualifications.
- A 300-word essay explaining their desire to pursue a career in golf journalism.
- A current transcript to validate academic standing.
Legacy of Ron Balicki
Ron Balicki began his journalism career in golf in 1980 with the Northwest Florida Daily News and went on to achieve remarkable recognition in the field. Notable accolades include:
- First and third place awards in GCAA writing contests.
- Four first-place awards from the International Network of Golf, along with numerous honorable mentions.
- Three first-place awards from the Texas Golf Writers Association.
- Winner of the Jimmy D’Angelo Award from the Golf Writer’s Association of America and the Al Byrne Award from the Northwest Florida Sports Association for his outstanding contributions to sports journalism.
In 2010, Balicki was inducted into the GCAA Hall of Fame and was known for covering every NCAA Championship since 1985. His contributions extended beyond his journalistic achievements; he was affectionately nicknamed "Wrong Ron" for his amusingly inaccurate tournament predictions and was beloved by players and coaches alike.
Notable Past Winners
The Ron Balicki Scholarship has helped many promising journalists in the golf industry. Previous recipients include:
- Luke Hendry (Texas)
- Tracy Peyton (Palm Beach Atlantic)
- Brayden Conover (Oklahoma)
- Cade Tjomsland (Palm Beach Atlantic)
- Alex Gelman (Arizona State)
- Carson Racich (Florida Gulf Coast)
- Ben Parris (Arizona State)
- Henry Oelhafen (Vanderbilt)
How to Apply
To apply for the scholarship, please download the application form and submit your completed materials to adam@gcaa.coach before the deadline of February 27, 2026.
Don’t miss this opportunity to advance your career in golf journalism and honor the legacy of an outstanding sports journalist.
