The Point O’ Woods Golf and Country Club will welcome some of the nation’s top collegiate golfers this weekend for the Jim DeLapa Collegiate, a premier men’s Division I college golf championship. The tournament, set for September 27–29, will feature 13 programs from across the United States competing for both team and individual honors.
Matt Flaherty, general manager at Point O’ Woods, said the tournament is designed to attract elite programs while providing a competitive and fair environment for student-athletes.
“Our goal is to bring in the best men’s Division I programs in the country,” Flaherty said. “They’ll play 54 holes—36 on Sunday and 18 on Monday—with both team and individual championships awarded at the conclusion.”
Each team consists of five players, with the top four scores counting toward the team total for each 18-hole round. Flaherty emphasized that the depth of a team often determines success: while the top one or two players may carry strong scores, it’s the contributions of the third, fourth, and fifth players that often separate the leaders from the middle of the pack. “These are top 30 programs,” Flaherty explained. “Their depth is remarkable. A third or fourth player could be on tour in a few years without it being a surprise.”
The 13 teams competing this year represent some of the strongest programs in collegiate golf, and Flaherty said the number could expand to 15 in the coming years. “We hope to grow the field over the next two years,” he said. “This is a great opportunity for these athletes to compete in a highly competitive environment, while our members and the community enjoy watching elite golf.”
The Jim DeLapa Collegiate follows the tradition of historic tournaments like the Western Amateur, which has a storied legacy at Point O’ Woods.
“The Western Amateur was one of the most prestigious amateur events in the country,” Flaherty said. “Many players who competed here went on to professional careers. Our tournament is a smaller, more manageable version at a time of year when the golf course can accommodate these top programs.”
In addition to the main championship rounds, the tournament offers a unique practice and fundraising opportunity on Saturday. Players will participate in a practice round in the morning, followed by a special event in which one player from each team partners with three sponsors or club members. The event helps raise funds for the Point O’ Woods Foundation, which awards scholarships to employees and supports local educational initiatives.
“Our foundation awards scholarships for employees pursuing higher education,” Flaherty said. “About a month ago, we awarded 15 scholarships for the upcoming school year. The net profits from this tournament go directly to the foundation, which is really what this is all about—helping young people further their education and invest in their future.”
The Point O’ Woods Foundation is not limited to traditional caddie scholarships like the Evans Scholars program associated with the Western Golf Association. Instead, scholarships are available to employees across the club, including those working in dining, maintenance, and other service roles. Flaherty emphasized the importance of giving back to those who work hard to support the club’s operations.
“Whether someone is raking bunkers, serving in the dining room, or working in the kitchen, we want to help them continue their education,” he said. “It’s about giving these kids a future. We’re very fortunate to be in a position to help.”
Flaherty also highlighted support from community and national sponsors and Point O’ Woods members who help fund the tournament and foundation.
“We could not host an event of this caliber without our sponsors,” Flaherty said. “Their support is crucial not only to the tournament’s success but to the scholarships and opportunities we can provide through our foundation.”
The tournament format ensures a competitive balance while keeping the event manageable for the club and its membership. Each team’s five players will rotate through groups, and scoring will reflect the best four of five players for each round. “It’s amazing to see how the balance of a team contributes to overall success,” Flaherty said. “A team might have the best individual player, but it’s the consistency across all five players that often determines the winner.”
While the focus is on competition, Flaherty said the tournament is also an opportunity to engage the community and showcase the region’s hospitality. “We’re excited for local golf fans, families, and visitors to see these top athletes in action,” he said. “It’s a great way to bring the community together around a shared love of golf while supporting a good cause.”
Flaherty himself has a long history in golf management and development, which has contributed to the tournament’s growth and success. Under his leadership, Point O’ Woods has strengthened ties with collegiate programs and national sponsors, creating a model for combining elite competition with community impact.
“Hosting an event like this requires collaboration across many layers—from staff to sponsors to our members,” he said. “It’s a team effort, just like golf. We all come together to provide a great experience for these athletes and to raise funds that support education and opportunities.”
Among the sponsors, Corewell Health, Visit Southwest Michigan, Whirlpool Corporation, Stifel, the Inn at Harbor Shores, Wind Trust, and Conybeare Law. Flaherty said Point O’ Woods members are also providing significant contributions.
The Jim DeLapa Collegiate also provides exposure for golfers aiming to continue into professional ranks. Many athletes competing in the tournament are on track to play professionally, with some already ranked among the top collegiate golfers in the country. “It’s incredible to see that talent level,” Flaherty said. “For some, this event is a stepping stone to a career in professional golf.”
In addition to the competition, Saturday’s sponsor-player event provides a unique opportunity for interaction between collegiate athletes and local supporters.
“It’s a fun way for our sponsors and members to engage with the players,” Flaherty said. “It adds a layer of excitement and helps raise additional funds for our foundation.”
With 13 college programs competing this year, including teams from across the nation, the tournament promises high-level competition. Flaherty anticipates close scores and impressive individual performances. “These are the best of the best in men’s collegiate golf,” he said. “We expect tight competition, but also sportsmanship and camaraderie among the athletes.”
“Whether you’re a fan of the sport, a supporter of education, or just enjoy seeing talented athletes perform at a high level, this tournament has something for everyone,” Flaherty said. “We’re proud to continue this tradition at Point O’ Woods.”
All of the weekend event’s activities are open to the public to view for free. There is a charge for food and beverages. For more information on the tournament, schedules, participating teams, and ways to watch or attend, visit the Point O’ Woods Golf and Country Club website at pointowoods.com.
