Connersville Students Swing for Europe: Golf Fundraiser

Five enterprising Connersville High School students are teeing up support for an educational trip of a lifetime to Europe, and local residents now have extended time to join in their “Swinging Through Europe” Golf Tournament fundraiser. Team registration and sponsorship opportunities, originally slated to close May 30, will now remain open right up until the event on Friday, June 13, 2025.

The student group, comprising Abigail Keal, Payton Richards, Sophia Starr, Isabella Starr, and Danica Brown—described as honor roll students, community volunteers, and student-athletes—is organizing the tournament to fund a two-week educational journey through Germany, France, Belgium, and the United Kingdom in June 2026.

“After going on our trip to Europe, we hope to gain insight on other cultures and have a better understanding of other global perspectives,” the students shared collectively. They added, “We look forward to seeing iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and learning about the history of Auschwitz Concentration Camp.”

The experience of organizing the fundraiser has already proven to be a significant learning opportunity. “For us, the most rewarding part of this experience has been seeing how much we’re capable of when we come together with a shared goal,” the girls explained. “Organizing this golf fundraiser has pushed us out of our comfort zones—in the best way. We’ve learned how to plan an event from scratch, connect with local businesses, and really engage with our community. It’s been amazing to see our community support us. It means so much to us all that we are supported by so many people locally.”

The “Swinging Through Europe” Golf Tournament will be a 4-Person Scramble held at Arbor Crossing Golf Club, located at 1982 W. County Club Rd. in Connersville, with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. on June 13. The cost is $200 per team, and lunch will be provided. Participants can also look forward to contests such as Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin, along with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes, a 50/50 draw, and basket raffles.

Those interested in registering a team or exploring sponsorship opportunities can do so even on the day of the event. “The quickest way to get signed for a team or sponsorship opportunity is to call or text Abigail Keal at 765-580-1762 or email at abigailkeal@gmail.com,” the students advised. “Feel free to email or call the contact info provided in advance, or just join us on the day of the event—we’d love to have you there to support our trip!”

For community members who wish to support the students’ fundraising efforts after the golf tournament, the girls added, “Local individuals can still support our fundraising efforts by reaching out to any of us 5 girls after the event. We appreciate the support.”