Familiar faces with the Kauai Jr. Golf Association have filled some new positions.
Stephanie Shinno is the new director of programs and services, and Jennifer Hreljac is the new tournament director.
“I am humbled and impressed by the foundation KJGA has built after I left for college, and now when I am a parent myself of three Jr. Golfers, I am excited to be a part of an elite team who have the best interest of our keiki and our Jr. Golf Program,” Shinno said in a news release. “I look forward to working with the board members to reach more keiki of Kauai who would like to try out the sport or learn more about the program.
Shinno, a former Jr. Golfer who played in college at California State University, Monterey Bay, has been serving the island of Kauai as the marketing coordinator at Garden Island FCU.
She will be the main contact at KJGA who will help with registration, tournament, fundraisers, volunteers and the main person that Jr. Golfers and parents can inquire about the program.
“I am excited and want to thank the board members for their warm welcome and help with getting things started,” Shinno said. “It is a great program on Kauai to have. It kept me focused away from any bad ‘island’ activities and got me into college. I look forward to meeting new Tiger Woods or Michelle Wie and help them meet their individual goals.”
Hreljac is working for the Hawaii Department of Education as both a teacher and as the Parent Community Network Center facilitator at Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School. Hreljac retired from a sales career, having more than 20 years of experience.
She has volunteered for KJGA events for the last eight years and was formerly the vice president of the KJGA board. Hreljac’s responsibilities as tournament director include being an on-site manager.
“I’m extremely familiar with the children because I’ve been working with them, literally, for years now — doing this position without being a position,” Hreljac said. “I’m glad that Jr. Golf is moving toward getting permanent positions in there. … Our goal is to make it fun for the kids, make sure they have everything they need and feel comfortable while they’re there.”
Open registration has begun. Those interested can register at www.kjga.org.
KJGA will be hosting “Divots in the Dark” on Feb. 2 at Puakea Golf Course in Lihue. It’s for kids ages 5-12 and is free.
Food, drinks and glow sticks will be provided. Info: kjgaoffice@gmail.com.
