Point O’ Woods Announces Inaugural Jim DeLapa Collegiate Golf Tournament

Elite Division I Teams to Compete at Historic Benton Harbor Club, September 27–29, 2025

Point O’ Woods Country Club, renowned for its championship pedigree as host of the Western Amateur from 1968 through 2008 and again in 2019, proudly announces the inaugural Jim DeLapa Collegiate, set to take place from Saturday, September 27, through Monday, September 29, 2025.

In partnership with Central Michigan University as the host school, the tournament will welcome 15 elite Division I golf programs from across the country:

Jim DeLapa Collegiate Tournament Participants:

•Central Michigan University (Host)
• University of Illinois
• University of Michigan
• University of Cincinnati
• Princeton University
• Northern Illinois University
• UNC Wilmington
• New Mexico State University
• Florida Gulf Coast University
• San Jose State University
• Grand Canyon University
• University of San Francisco
• University of the Pacific
• Saint Mary’s College (CA)
• Chicago State University

A New Chapter for a Storied Course

Beginning in 2025, the Jim DeLapa Collegiate marks the return of premier amateur competition to Point O’ Woods. The event will be held annually on the fourth weekend of September through 2028, bringing together the best of collegiate golf in a highly competitive 54-hole medal play format. “We are thrilled to bring elite collegiate amateur golf back to Point O’ Woods,” said Matt Flaherty, PGA, General Manager, Point O’ Woods. “Our deep-rooted history with the Western Amateur created lasting memories for our members and featured champions like Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, and Justin Leonard. We’re excited to again showcase the sport’s future stars at The Point.”

The tournament format will include:

• Saturday: Practice round
• Sunday: 36 holes of medal play
• Monday: Final 18 holes, followed by an awards ceremony recognizing both Individual and Team Champions

Giving Back Through the Game

All net proceeds from the tournament will benefit the Point O’ Woods Educational Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization that provides financial support to deserving caddies and club employees pursuing higher education.

“It’s become a vital part of our club culture, and we’re determined to continue its growth,” said Chuck Smith, Director of the Foundation. “This tournament offers a unique opportunity to support both the game and educational advancement.”

About the Jim Delapa Collegiate Tournament:

The Central Michigan University golf team will take a special place in the history of the Jim DeLapa Collegiate as the host college. NCAA Division I Head Golf Coach Kevin Jennings, who has led the Central Michigan team for the past three years, has strong personal ties to Point O' Woods. A Benton Harbor native, Coach Jennings spent many summers caddying at the club alongside his brother Jeffery Jennings. During these years, the Jennings brothers formed lasting relationships with Point O' Woods members, Western Amateur participants, and future tour professionals.

The Point holds a cherished place in the heart of the Jennings family, and Coach Jennings' return to Point O' Woods as a NCAA Division I Head Golf Coach marks a full circle moment. For the Jennings brothers, their association with the club is further deepened by the mentorship they received under Mr. Jim DeLapa and his son Tony, who played significant roles in shaping their careers and community leadership. The Jim DeLapa Collegiate thus carries a profound, personal connection for Coach Jennings and his family, further enriching the event’s legacy.

About Point O’ Woods Educational Foundation:
The Point O’ Woods Educational Foundation was formed in 2022 to allow Point O’ Woods members and their employers to give philanthropic contributions to help our employees achieve their goals and dreams. The foundation is a nonprofit organization and has obtained IRS designation 501(c)3) status.

The foundation's purpose is to award educational scholarship funds to employees and caddies of Point O’ Woods Golf & C.C. who will be attending or presently are attending a credited college or trade school or taking courses to improve their quality of life. Applicants generally must have been employed by Point O’ Woods for a qualifying period as outlined on the application.

The foundation is a need-based program. The level of need is decided by the foundation committee on a case by case basis. The application requires the following criteria necessary for consideration, including:

• Point O’ Woods employment record
• Character, integrity, leadership
• Financial need is based upon expected family contribution.
• Academic achievement
• Recommendations from supervisors or members

Media Contact / Sponsorship Inquiries: Media: Claire Fetters cfetters.115@gmail.com

Sponsorship: Tony Janowski tjanowski@nafdigital.com
Point O’ Woods Educational Foundation Chuck Smith csmith@thefederalsavingsbank.com

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