Staff Reports
SAFFORD – Under sunny skies at the picturesque Mount Graham Golf Club, UFC lightweight sensation Justin “The Highlight” Gaethje traded his octagon gloves for golf clubs today, headlining the second annual Swing for the Kids Golf Tournament to benefit the Boys and Girls Club of the Gila Valley. The event, hosted by the City of Safford, drew more than 140 enthusiastic supporters eager to swing for a cause close to the Safford native’s heart.
The four-person scramble format unfolded across the club’s 18 challenging holes, blending friendly competition with community spirit. Participants, including local business leaders, families, and avid golfers, teed off starting at 7 a.m., filling the course with laughter, cheers, and the satisfying crack of drivers launching balls toward the greens. As the day progressed, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement, amplified by Gaethje’s larger-than-life presence—especially poignant as it coincided with his 37th birthday.
Born and raised in Safford, the former interim UFC lightweight champion has long championed youth development in the Gila Valley, using his platform to spotlight the Boys and Girls Club’s vital programs. Today’s tournament marks the second year of his namesake event, building on last year’s success to fund after-school activities, mentorship, and educational initiatives that help local children “grow, learn, and thrive,” as organizers put it.
A major highlight was the lineup of sponsors fueling the fundraiser. Platinum sponsor Empire Machinery (Empire Cat) stepped up with generous backing, while the UFC itself signed on as a silver sponsor, underscoring the promotion’s commitment to Gaethje’s off-mat endeavors. “Your support makes a real difference,” noted event coordinators in a midday update. All proceeds from entry fees, raffles, and silent auctions will remain in the Gila Valley, directly bolstering the club’s efforts to serve hundreds of young members annually.
For those who missed the action, it’s not too late to contribute. Donations can be made via the official event page at GolfStatus, where every dollar counts toward empowering Gila Valley youth. For more details on the Boys and Girls Club or upcoming events, contact 928-432-4000 or visit www.cityofsafford.us.
As the final putts dropped and the sun dipped behind Mount Graham, the tournament wasn’t just about birdies and bogeys—it was a powerful reminder of how one hometown hero’s swing can ripple through an entire community, one kid at a time.
