ATLANTA — Kylie Chong, a junior golfer from Torrance, California, on the No. 2 University of Southern California Women’s Golf team, was named the recipient of the 2026 Tom Cousins Award. The announcement was made at the annual East Lake Cup Welcome Celebration on October 26, 2026.
The Tom Cousins Award is presented annually to one male and one female student-athlete from the East Lake Cup teams who best represent the civic, community, and philanthropic qualities exemplified by Tom Cousins, founder of the East Lake Foundation. The award committee is composed of representatives from the Golf Channel, the East Lake Foundation, and the East Lake Golf Club.
Chong was recognized for her extensive community involvement, including assisting at the Dream Center with preparing and serving food to unhoused individuals and engaging with disabled golfers at the Angel City Adaptive Sports Clinic, where she taught golf and spent quality time socializing with participants.
Reflecting on the honor, Chong stated, “I am honored to win an award that represents commitment to serve others and make positive differences. My time at the Angel City Adaptive Sports Clinic showed me how far golf can take us in forming a community involving people from different backgrounds, while also bringing together people with disabilities. The Dream Center allowed me to connect with those experiencing homelessness and gave me a chance to make them feel seen, valued and supported.”
This recognition continues a tradition within the USC women’s golf program, as teammate Bailey Shoemaker received the Tom Cousins Award last year.
CSB Take
Kylie Chong’s receipt of the Tom Cousins Award highlights the University of Southern California Women’s Golf team’s dedication to community service and leadership beyond athletics. Her involvement in organizations supporting disabled individuals and the unhoused exemplifies the impactful role student-athletes can play in philanthropy. This accolade not only honors Chong’s personal character but also enhances the reputation of USC women’s golf as a program deeply committed to civic engagement.
Source: Original report
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