Golfers swing into action to support sports

The sun smiled on the Outlaw Open Friday at Aspen Lakes Golf Course, at least for much of the day.

Twenty-eight foursomes appreciated the break from a rainy and cold spring to support the Sisters High School football program at the "scramble" event.

Head football coach and high school principal Bob Macauley said the event will raise about $25,000 from golf, and a silent and verbal auction. Players chipped in $115 for the golf and dinner, a chance to bid at the auctions and buy raffle tickets.

This is the 15th year for the fundraiser. Macauley said each year a couple of other sports receive support from the event. This year the equestrian program will receive $1,000, and lacrosse $1,500.

The weather doesn't always cooperate. Macauley chuckled, recalling one time when former University of Oregon star quarterback and NFL great Dan Fouts showed up to play. The rain and sleet was horizontal on that day.

Fouts asked how much to play in the tournament. Macauley told him $55, but $65 not to play. Fouts chose the latter.

Macauley describes the Outlaw Open as low-key and designed for people to have fun. Winners David Green, Christian Green, Chuck Gibson and John Christen each received an Outlaw jacket, while second place winners were awarded hats.

Aspen Lakes pledged to award $10,000 to anyone who scored a hole-in-one, but no one found the cup. Grant Cyrus, Aspen Lakes manager and part of the family that owns the course, was a middle linebacker for the Outlaws when the team won state championships.

Macauley thanked the entire family and everyone at the golf course and the restaurant, Brand 33, for their support.

Macauley has worked at Sisters High School for 18 years, as an instructor, vice-principal and principal for the last eight years. He says serving as football coach keeps him "connected" to the kids.

He said sponsors were generous and supportive despite the tough economic times.