September 15, 2025
ANOKA, MINN. — This year’s Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation’s (AHEF) "Putt-ing” Kids First annual golf tournament raised nearly $23,000 for the district’s students. This was the 66th annual tournament benefiting the students in the Anoka-Hennepin Schools.
148 golfers on 36 teams, and 48 sponsors came together on a cool, fall day at Green Haven Golf Course in Anoka on Saturday, Sept. 6 for the best-ball scramble tournament, according to AHEF director Tess DeGeest.
“Our golfers and sponsors come to have fun and show their support for our students, schools, District and Foundation,” she said. “With their generosity, we are able to put on a successful event that makes a huge difference. As I like to say, ” it’s all for the kids.”
The tournament’s success is a direct result of the people involved whether golfing, sponsoring or volunteering, DeGeest said. Help from 34 volunteers like Nikki Hassel, a retired Community Education Programmer, add to the success of the day.
“I have volunteered with AHEF for years now and didn’t want to miss out on another fun and meaningful event,” said Hassel. “Our golfers and sponsors are consistently supportive of the Foundation. It’s so rewarding to see and thank them, knowing they are here to provide equitable and innovative experiences for our students and schools.”
The winning women’s team with a score of 72 was Team Britt’s Birdies. Golfing with Britt Olean were Denise Collins, Abbie Watson, and Lindsey Oakley.
The top overall team with a score of 54 was Team Brad Gullickson. Playing with Brad Gullickson was Corey Johnson, Pat Janostin, Matt Gullickson, and Alex Hilley.
Dozens of other golfers won mulligan prizes ranging from Baldamar gift cards, barbeque grilling sets, rangefinders, a golf bag, and a Yeti backpack cooler, to name just a few.
Skills Prize winners were:
Closest to the pin for women: Britt Olean
Closest to the pin for men: Drake Dimich
Longest drive for women: Jackie Johnson
Longest drive for men: Carter Magnison
Longest putt for women: Ann Sievers
Longest putt for men: Tim Sharits
Save the date now for next year’s tournament scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026.
