From Jasper to the LPGA: Hometown Hero Kate Golden Comes Full Circle

Jasper native and LPGA alum Kate Golden returns to East Texas for the AJGA event at Rayburn Resort, ready to inspire the next generation through mentorship and community pride.

Kate Golden, Jasper native and former LPGA pro.

From the tree-lined fairways of Jasper High School to the elite ranks of the LPGA Tour, Kate Golden has seen the game of golf from nearly every angle. But this month, the spotlight isn’t on her swing — it’s on her heart. Golden has returned to her hometown roots to serve as both mentor and motivator during the upcoming American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) event at Rayburn Resort. And in a full-circle moment, she’s using her story to encourage the next wave of young golfers.

“You can make it from anywhere,” Golden said in a recent interview with the East Texas Banner. “It doesn’t matter where you live. If you love the game, and you love the work, you can make it professionally if you want that.”

Golden played for Jasper High School before competing at the University of Texas and spending 18 years on the LPGA Tour. After retiring from professional play, she transitioned into coaching, serving most notably at Florida State University and then as a long-time coach at her alma mater, UT. Her decision to return to Southeast Texas was driven not just by her love of the area, but by a desire to give back.

Golden stands proudly at the University of Texas during her UT Hall of Honor induction weekend.

Golden poses with fellow Longhorn and PGA Tour star Jordan Spieth.

Golden will host a special "Coaches Corner" Q&A session on Friday, March 28, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Rayburn Resort, where local student-athletes and parents can ask questions about college recruitment, athletic development, and the transition from junior golf to collegiate or professional play. The event is free and open to the public.

“I just hope I can answer their questions and put them at ease,” Golden said. “College golf is an amazing experience, but making those decisions shouldn’t be stressful. I want players and parents to feel informed and confident.”

For young players eyeing the next level, Golden emphasized the importance of choosing the right college fit over prestige. “Go where you’re going to play and be happy,” she said. “It’s your life, your golf game, your future.”

“Events like this inspire young players,” she said. “Even if you’re just watching, it might spark something. That’s how I got started. I watched a college tournament at Rayburn as a kid and thought, ‘I want to be like those players.’”

With a lifetime of experience and a deep love for her community, Kate Golden is more than a hometown hero. She’s a living example of what dedication, talent, and heart can achieve — no matter where you start.

With years of experience behind her, Golden’s swing remains a testament to discipline and precision.

Golden joins a group of collegiate golfers in front of the legendary statue of Arnold Palmer, proudly flashing the “Hook 'em Horns” sign.

Kaitlyn Papp celebrates a top 10 finish at the U.S. Women’s Open with Golden, who served as her caddie during the tournament.

Golden praised the AJGA for its commitment to sportsmanship, community values, and player development. “It’s not just about tournament play,” she explained. “They teach players how to take care of the course, how to act with integrity. It’s great prep for life.”

The AJGA event begins this week at Rayburn Resort, welcoming 96 of the top junior golfers from around the world including standout players from the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia, South Korea, and Norway all competing for a chance to climb the national rankings. For those who attend, the opportunity to meet and learn from a local legend might just be the inspiration they need to chase their own dreams.

To learn more about the tournament details and what to expect throughout the weekend, click here for the complete event overview.