Lake Oconee Academy is proud to celebrate two distinguished alumni, Katie Scheck and Ryan Smith, who recently competed on one of amateur golf’s biggest stages: the 2026 U.S. Amateur Four-Ball Championships conducted by the United States Golf Association (USGA).
Katie Scheck, a member of LOA’s Class of 2021, earned national recognition after capturing the 2026 U.S. Women’s Amateur Four-Ball Championship alongside her partner, Morgan Ellison. The duo claimed the national title in a dramatic 19-hole championship match at Daniel Island Club in Charleston, South Carolina. Scheck’s accomplishment reflects not only exceptional talent but also the perseverance, leadership, and competitive spirit she demonstrated throughout her time as a Penn State Nittany Lion.
“Competing in the U.S. Women’s Amateur Four-Ball Championship was an incredible experience and one that I’ll always remember,” said Scheck. “I’m so grateful for the opportunity to compete alongside my partner and against some of the best amateur golfers in the country. This accomplishment is the result of years of hard work and support from my family, coaches, teammates, and everyone who has encouraged me along the way. It’s rewarding to see that hard work pay off, and I’m proud of what we were able to achieve together. Most of all, I’m thankful for the relationships and memories that came from the experience, and I’m excited to continue growing both as a golfer and as a person.”
Ryan Smith, a member of LOA’s Class of 2020, competed in the 2026 U.S. Amateur Four-Ball Championship at Desert Mountain Club in Scottsdale, Arizona, alongside his partner, Robert Morway. Although the pair did not advance to match play, qualifying for and competing in a USGA national championship is a remarkable accomplishment and reflects Ryan’s talent and love of golf long after his days at the University of Wisconsin.
“Having the opportunity to compete in this year’s U.S. Amateur Four-Ball Championship was an incredible experience,” said Smith. “Playing alongside one of my former college teammates and best friends, with close friends and family there to support us, made it even more special. Since graduating from collegiate golf, opportunities like this have become much less frequent, so stepping back into a competitive environment was incredibly rewarding. I’m proud of the way we competed and look forward to hopefully having more opportunities to participate in this event in the future.”
At Lake Oconee Academy, athletics are about more than competition. LOA’s athletic program strives to develop character, leadership, resilience, and teamwork—qualities that continue to serve students long after graduation. Katie and Ryan exemplify what it means to be a Titan, pursuing ambitious goals while representing their school and community with integrity and pride, even after graduation.
“We are incredibly proud of Katie and Ryan and all they have accomplished,” said LOA Athletic Director Chris Ingle. “Watching former Titans compete at this level is exciting for our entire school community. They are tremendous examples for our current student-athletes, and we know their school family will continue to cheer them on every step of the way.”
The Lake Oconee Academy community joins together in celebrating these alumni and the dedication, determination, and heart that brought them to these extraordinary achievements. Their success serves as an inspiration to current and future Titans, demonstrating that hard work, commitment, and perseverance can open doors to opportunities on the national stage.
Learn more about these championships: U.S. Women’s Amateur Four-Ball + U.S. Men’s Amateur Four-Ball