For more than a decade, a day on the golf course has helped United ISD graduates take their next steps toward higher education. Now entering its 11th year, the Partners “Fore” Scholars Golf Tournament continues to bring the Laredo community together for a day of golf with a purpose.

United Independent School District and longtime Partner in Education Powell Watson Motors officially announced the 11th Annual Partners “Fore” Scholars Golf Tournament, scheduled for Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Casablanca Golf Course. UISD Superintendent Dr. Gerardo Cruz, district leaders, community partners, and students gathered at the Mercedes-Benz of Laredo showroom to celebrate the return of this wonderful fundraiser.

Over the past decade, the tournament has helped award nearly $600,000 in scholarships to United ISD graduates. Proceeds benefit UISD's Partners for Scholars program, which helps graduating seniors cover college expenses such as tuition, textbooks, laptops, and other educational necessities.

Students from United, John B. Alexander, United South, and Lyndon B. Johnson high schools joined the announcement alongside their principals, student activities coordinators, and school mascots. Student-athletes, student council representatives, club members, cheerleaders, and dancers brought plenty of school spirit to the event, representing the students at the heart of this annual tournament.

For United ISD Director of Athletics Coach Bobby Cruz, the tournament's greatest reward is seeing students receive the support they need to continue their education. “Some of our students have the mentality that college isn't for them because it's too expensive,” Cruz shared. “All we need is a kickstart. That's all we need is a start, and this program gets that for them.”

United ISD Superintendent Dr. Gerardo Cruz thanked Powell Watson Motors and the community partners whose continued generosity has helped the tournament grow into a Laredo tradition.  

“It's just a testament to the commitment of the City of Laredo and all of our partners, where we come together to be sure that we do our very best to ensure that the future of our community gets the benefit of this tournament and all the proceeds,” Dr. Cruz said.

Dr. Cruz also thanked the district employees whose months of preparation help make the tournament possible, noting the enthusiasm and positive feedback the event continues to receive from participants.

Powell Watson Motors has played a leading role in the tournament since its inception, contributing more than $165,000 over the past 11 years. Jonathan Watson Jr., General Manager of Mercedes-Benz of Laredo, said the company's involvement reflects its commitment to the community. “It's not simply about doing business, but it's about investing in our future and the future of our community,” Watson said. “And what better future than our students and our youth of Laredo!”

The tournament will feature a three-person scramble format, with approximately 36 to 40 teams expected to participate. Golfers can look forward to friendly competition, food, door prizes, and camaraderie. With approximately 28 teams already registered at the time of the announcement, organizers anticipate another sold-out event. Many participants return each year, with some reserving their spots for the following tournament before the current one ends.

This year's tournament will also feature two exciting hole-in-one prizes: a 2026 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road and a 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali.

Organizing the tournament is a team effort across several UISD departments. Coach Cruz recognized the Athletics Department, along with staff from Facilities, Fixed Assets, Custodial, Aquatics, Support Services, and Public Relations for their work coordinating the event.

Alongside longtime tournament partner Powell Watson Motors, United ISD extends its appreciation to Laredo Federal Credit Union, Clear Choice Emergency Room, Trautmann & Garcia Law Firm, and the many additional sponsors and community partners supporting this year's tournament.

The 11th Annual Partners “Fore” Scholars Golf Tournament will take place on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Casablanca Golf Course, with registration and breakfast beginning at 7:30 a.m.

For tournament details, registration, or sponsorship opportunities, contact United ISD Director of Athletics Coach Bobby Cruz at rcruz@uisd.net or 956-473-7100.