The Highlanders scored a big win before anyone teed off.

Governor Livingston High School's second annual Highlander Athletics Golf Outing nearly doubled in size this year, drawing 130 golfers to Ash Brook Golf Course and raising about $7,800 for student-athletes.

That's a major jump from the inaugural event in 2025, which attracted 70 golfers.

"Thanks to the commitment and generosity of our sponsors, donors, golfers, and supporters, the outing was not only a memorable day on the course but also an important fundraiser for our athletic programs," Athletic Director CJ Hendricks said. "I hope we can continue to grow this event each year."

The money will help fund special projects and enhanced experiences for Governor Livingston athletes.

The outing felt more like a Highlander reunion than a typical fundraiser.

GLHS alumnus and fencing coach Kevin Jow welcomed golfers with a bagpipe performance, while longtime game announcer Denis Smalley — better known as "The Voice of the Highlanders" — introduced every foursome on the first tee.

Golfers also competed for raffle prizes, bid in a silent auction and bought 50-50 tickets and mulligans throughout the day. Auction items included a meet-and-greet with NFL quarterback Jaxson Dart and a trip to Mexico.

The event relied on dozens of volunteers from the Highlander Booster Club, the GL Alumni Association and the Berkeley Heights and Mountainside PAL organizations.

Anne Woodard, the Booster Club's vice president, said her favorite job was driving around the course selling raffle tickets and mulligans.

"It was a fun way to connect with our golfers and the GL community while raising money to support our student-athletes," she said.

Organizers have already set a date for the third annual outing: Friday, June 18, 2027.