#United States #Kinder #Junior Golf #Notah Begay #Coushatta Resort

Notah Begay III Junior Golf National Championship Returns to Coushatta

The Notah Begay III Junior Golf National Championship (NB3 JGNC) Series is making its triumphant return for the seventh consecutive year from November 1-8, 2026. Set against the stunning backdrop of the award-winning Koasati Pines golf course at Coushatta Casino Resort in Kinder, Louisiana, this event promises exciting competition and showcases budding golf talents from around the globe. This year's event includes girls' matches from November 1-3 and boys' matches from November 6-8, with national coverage on Golf Channel.

A Global Competition

This championship brings together an impressive assembly of junior golfers, with participants hailing from various countries, emphasizing the event's reputation as one of the most inclusive and competitive junior golf tournaments worldwide. In advance of the championship, over 3,500 junior golfers aged 10-18 competed through a rigorous three-stage qualifying process to secure their spot in the 320 championship openings. This effort reflects the high level of competition and desire among young athletes to shine on an international stage.

Notah Begay III, the founder and namesake of the championship, expressed his excitement for the tournament, stating, "Every year, these young golfers remind me why we started this championship. They come from all over the world for the chance to compete on a national stage and be seen by college coaches. Creating those opportunities for the next generation is what this game is about, and there is no better place to do it than Coushatta." His words highlight the essence of the NB3 JGNC Series: providing young athletes a platform to shine.

Honoring a Leader

Adding to the significance of the 2026 championship, Notah Begay III was recently honored as the recipient of the PGA TOUR's 2026 Payne Stewart Award. This prestigious accolade is granted to individuals who display character, charity, and sportsmanship, qualities that Begay has embodied throughout his career. He has been instrumental in fostering opportunities for Native American youth through his foundation and initiatives dedicated to golf.

David Sickey, Chairman of The Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana, echoed the sentiment of congratulations, stating, "Each year, we are proud to welcome these young athletes and their families to Koasati Pines and Coushatta. We also congratulate Notah on receiving the Payne Stewart Award, an honor that reflects the character and generosity he has demonstrated throughout his career."

More Than Just Golf

The championship isn’t merely about golfing excellence; it is a celebration of youth and determination within the sport. The series aims not just to crowning champions but inspire the next generation of golfers. Having established itself as a prime platform since its inception in 2020, the NB3 JGNC has consistently attracted top junior talent from around the world, transitioning into a coveted event for aspiring golfers.

Competitors will have their games broadcast on Golf Channel, expanding their exposure and opportunities to connect with collegiate golf scouts during prime viewing hours, something that had not been previously accomplished for junior golf events.

Experience Coushatta

For participants and attendees, the Coushatta Casino Resort offers a full experience beyond the golfing competitions. Recognized as Louisiana's largest casino resort, the facility features an expansive gaming floor, multiple hotels, and leisure activities, making it an ideal destination for families attending the championship.

To stay informed about the Notah Begay III Junior Golf National Championship and get details about the upcoming events, visit jgnc.org.

As the countdown to this monumental event continues, the excitement builds, promising an extraordinary experience for all involved. Whether you're a fan of golf or looking for a thrilling atmosphere filled with inspiring stories of young athletes, the 2026 NB3 JGNC will not disappoint.