Optimist Junior Golf recently announced the junior golfers of the 2026 Hugh Cranford All-Scholastic Team. Those making the team exemplified an impressive balance of academics, golf and community service. After reviewing the qualifications of impressive applicants, the Optimist Junior Golf Committee selected the following exceptional student athletes for the team:
ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP
Ryan Dooms: Colorado Springs, Colorado
Kaylynn Jorgensen: Minden, Nebraska
Joshua Tomberg: Canton, Georgia
Kenneth Yang: Folsom, California

COMMUNITY SERVICE SCHOLARSHIP
Rebekah Im: Bradenton, Florida
This team exemplified an impressive balance of academics, golf and community service. The All-Scholastic Team is named for Hugh Cranford, who served as executive director of Optimist International from 1967 to 1986.He was instrumental in starting the Optimist Junior Golf program and in 1978 led the efforts to co-sponsor the Optimist Junior World Golf Championships in San Diego, the forerunner to today's Optimist International Junior Golf Championships. Cranford passed away in August 2014.
Ryan Dooms Ryan Dooms is an exceptional incoming senior honors student at Air Academy High School in Colorado Springs, Colorado. His family’s military background has instilled in him a strong work ethic and a deep commitment to both his academic and athletic pursuits. Described by teachers and coaches as patient, thoughtful, and driven by integrity, he consistently stands out among his peers. Beyond the golf course, Ryan is an active member of the National Honor Society, completing service hours through volunteering at elementary schools and helping build beds for families in need. Academically, he ranks within the top 15 students in his class. He aspires to play collegiate golf while pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering, aeronautical engineering, or golf management.

Kaylynn Jorgensen KayLynn Jorgensen is an outstanding student from Minden, Nebraska, who finished her high school career at the top of her class. She maintained a perfect A average throughout high school while serving as captain of both the girls’ golf and basketball teams and as president of the Student Council. Her dedication in the classroom carries over to her success on the course. Jorgensen earned multiple first-place finishes, including titles at the Nebraska Girls’ Golf State Tournament and the Nebraska Junior PGA Championship. She was also named the 2025 Nebraska Girls’ Golfer of the Year. Teachers and coaches consistently highlight her strong integrity and sportsmanship, which she demonstrates both in the classroom and on the course.

Joshua Tomberg

Kenneth Yang

The Community Service Award goes to:

Rebekah Im