Est. 2004

About Panther Backers

22 Years of Panther Pride

Our Mission

The mission and purpose of the University's intercollegiate athletics program seek to enhance the academic success, physical and emotional well-being of the student-athlete by providing a variety of competitive sports activities and experiences designed to contribute to the student-athlete's potential for full personal growth and development.

The University athletics program holds membership in Division I of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and is the sole remaining charter member of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). Men compete in baseball, basketball, cross-country, football, golf, indoor and outdoor track. Women compete in basketball, bowling, cross-country, golf, indoor and outdoor track, softball, and volleyball.

Panther Backers exists to support this mission. For 22 years, we have raised scholarship funds to ensure PVAMU student-athletes can focus on what matters — their education and their sport.

22 Years of Impact

What began in 2004 as a small gathering of passionate Prairie View A&M University alumni has grown into one of the most anticipated events in the PVAMU community. The Annual Celebrity Golf Tournament was born from a simple belief: that those who benefited from Prairie View's legacy have a responsibility to invest in its future.

Each year, alumni, supporters, and friends come together at Cypress Lakes Golf Course — not just for a round of golf, but to reaffirm their commitment to the student-athletes who carry the Panther tradition forward. Every dollar raised goes directly to scholarships.

This year's tournament is dedicated to the memory of Richard “Rick” Johnson, a beloved member of the Panther family whose generosity and spirit embody everything this event stands for.

Our Team

The people behind the tournament

Roland Steptoe

Roland Steptoe

Tournament Organizer

Leading Panther Backers for over two decades, Roland's dedication to PVAMU student-athletes is the heart of this tournament.

John Mayes, MS, ATC, LAT

John Mayes, MS, ATC, LAT

Pre-Golf Event Host

John hosts the Pre-Golf Meet & Greet, setting the tone for a weekend of fellowship and fundraising.

Prairie View A&M Athletics

Prairie View A&M University is a historically Black university and the sole remaining charter member of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC).

Men's Sports

  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Cross-Country
  • Football
  • Golf
  • Indoor Track
  • Outdoor Track

Women's Sports

  • Basketball
  • Bowling
  • Cross-Country
  • Golf
  • Indoor Track
  • Outdoor Track
  • Softball
  • Volleyball

Where Your Dollars Go

100% of tournament proceeds fund scholarships for Prairie View A&M University student-athletes. Your support helps cover tuition, books, housing, and athletic equipment — giving young Panthers the foundation they need to succeed both on the field and in the classroom.

22 years of giving back to our community

Ready to Make an Impact?

Whether you play, sponsor, or simply spread the word — you're part of the Panther family.

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