Sherrif Mark Garber and the Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Department hosted a free golf tournament Wednesday for kids of all ages.

LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) -- Wednesday morning at the Jay and Lionel Hebert Municipal Golf Course, Sherrif Mark Garber and the Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Department hosted a free golf tournament for kids of all ages.

It's a summer tradition that's been taking place for over two decades. The Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Office has given children an outlet to learn about the game of golf and have fun with friends and family. Last week at The Wetlands Golf Course, LPSO hosted their youth golf clinic. This week the children put those skills to the test in this year's golf tournament.

Amy Daigle is the Victim Services Coordinator of the Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Office. She's enjoyed being able to connect with the youth while spending time on the green.

"We think it's great, we definitely encourage it," Daigle said. "We have some kids that this is their first year playing, and they're already asking when we'll have it scheduled again for next summer. We have some kids that we see year after year. We watch them grow up and watch them develop their interest in golf. They invite their friends and invite new people to come into the program. We definitely love to see them carry on the tradition."

The day began with the children being introduced by Sheriff Garber as well as Head Golf Pro at Herbert Municipal Golf Course, Chris Arceneaux. He shared stories about growing up outside of the golf course, all the way to being invited to Steph Curry's annual Curry Cup. Arceneaux had a message for the kids ahead of the start of tournament play.

"Respect, love, and have fun. Alright!"

Everything needed to play was provided by LPSO and Hebert Municipal including clubs and golf carts to get around the course. The kids played five holes, double par, with parents keeping score throughout the morning. The teams were provided drinks on the course and lunch at the conclusion of play. First, second, and third place winners were awarded trophies with other participants winning door prizes.

Garber's tournament and clinic are set to wrap up on Thursday with kids ages twelve through seventeen. If your child is interested in participating in tomorrow's golf tournament, you can register in person at Herbert Municipal Golf Course. Kids ages 12-14 at 7 a.m. and kids ages 15-17 at 8 a.m.

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