Scottsdale Sister Cities Launches International Student Golf Exchange

For the first time, the Scottsdale Sister Cities Association is building a youth ambassador exchange around the game of golf, a sport vital to both Scottsdale and Killarney, Ireland, Scottsdale’s sister city since 2020.

“Golf will be a universal language that will enable every student to gain a valuable global awareness,” SSCA President Sandra Zally said in a written statement.

Program partners (SSCA, Scottsdale High Schools and the Killarney Town Twinning Association with support from Killarney Golf and Fishing Club) designed the student exchange to develop world-class ambassadors through golf.

Golf students play three matches at local golf courses and stay in the homes of student hosts. Killarney Golf and Fishing Club, founded in 1863 and the site of four Irish Opens, will host the student games in Ireland.

Youth Ambassadors will have many opportunities for cultural excursions and volunteering with a charity in each host city. Scottsdale students will experience an overnight stay in Dublin, Ireland, traveling around the Gap of Dunloe and the Dingle Peninsula, famous for its scenic countryside, mountains and castles.

When Killarney golf students visit Scottsdale, the experience includes a visit to the Grand Canyon, an introduction to Native American culture and volunteering for Project CURE (a non-profit organization that provides medical care to developing countries). Visits to local artisans and schools are also integrated into both itineraries.

Applications until March 1st.

SSCA is now accepting applications from Scottsdale High School golf students who will be traveling to Killarney June 17-26, 2023. Killarney golf students will visit Scottsdale from October 26th to November 4th, 2023. Policies and applications due March 1, 2023 are available at: https://www.scottsdalesistercities.org/students-programs

A charity Irish Golf Scramble to be held at Silverado Golf Club on May 12 benefits the Student Golf Exchange and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Faire, which organizes the Arizona Colleen and Rose programs.

“We welcome people of all ages and golfing skills to join in the fun at this inaugural event,” said JoAnn Garner, Chair of SSCA’s Killarney Committee, in a written statement.

Foursomes, singles and sponsors can register from March 1st.