Eagle Golf Classic Tees Up Big Support for Student Programs

Mar 25 2026

Thank you to everyone who supported the 2026 Eagle Classic Golf Tournament. A time-honored tradition at Santa Margarita, the golf tournament is the largest fundraiser for all of our athletic team and student programs. Whether you participated as a golfer, sponsor, or purchased a ball drop, every part shaped the success of the event.

The Santa Margarita Eagle Foundation is pleased to share that this year’s tournament raised a net amount of $373,400 with $310,453 going directly to the 34 teams and programs that participated. These funds will help with purchasing new equipment, cover travel costs and more.

One of the day’s most anticipated traditions, the ball drop, delivered both excitement and record-breaking participation. A total of 3,729 balls were sold—marking a new high for the event. Top student seller Christopher Benham led the effort with 102 balls sold. In the end, pink ball number 102 secured the win for Mike Acosta, who was announced as the lucky recipient of the grand prize.

**North Course tournament winners:** Timothy McElfish, Patrick Green, Nick Grant and Adam Kuchyt

**South Course tournament winners:** Jordan Goodman, Justin Goodman, Trenton Berry and Jared Price

Event organizers extended their gratitude to the many sponsors and participants who made the tournament possible, noting that the continued success of the Eagle Golf Classic reflects the strength and dedication of the Santa Margarita community.

"Because of your generosity, the Eagle spirit is stronger than ever,” organizers said in closing.

South Course Contest Winners
- Closest to the Pin (Men): Justin Bell
- Long Drive (Men): Albert Bernal
- Long Drive (Women): Shannon Bruno
North Course Contest Winners
- Closest to the Pin (Men): James Del Monaco
- Long Drive (Men): Charlie Schiller
- Long Drive (Women): Tara Mays
Putting Contest Winner
- Matt Steiger
Ball Drop Winner
- Congratulations to winner Mike Acosta
Team Who Raised the Most
- Baseball
Student With Most Ball Drop Sales
- Congratulations to Christopher Behnam
Best Dressed Foursome Congratulations to baseball dads Gary Darnell, Rob Milo, James Palda and David Unter for being the top voted foursome for best dressed. Not only did they show their SM baseball spirit, but wearing their sons’ uniforms definitely gives them
extra points.