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The Legacy: Teeing Up Opportunities for All
Some families have a legacy of baseball, basketball, or football. For the Marions, golf was more than just a sport—it was a family tradition. Our story begins with Rollin Marion, Jr., a retired Detroit Firefighter Lieutenant whose passion for golf left an indelible mark on the Metro Detroit area. In the 1980s and 90s, Rollin was a top player in the region, his skill and dedication culminating in a course record of 62 at Chandler Park Golf Course—a testament to his prowess and love for the game.
But Rollin’s legacy extended far beyond his impressive scorecard. He instilled in his family a deep appreciation for golf’s power to build character, foster discipline, and create opportunities. This legacy became the foundation for what would become Stix Golf Academy.
In 2023, Rollin’s son, Dequan Marion, and his wife, Katrina, witnessed a troubling reality: their children’s high school golf team and many other inner-city youth faced significant barriers to accessing the sport they loved. Golf, with its reputation for exclusivity and high costs, remained out of reach for many talented young athletes in Detroit.This realization sparked a mission. Dequan and Katrina decided it was time to take the helm and carry forward Rollin Marion’s legacy in a new, impactful way. They founded Stix Golf Academy with a clear vision: to break down the barriers that keep young people from experiencing the transformative power of golf.
At Stix, we believe that every child, regardless of their background or economic circumstances, deserves the opportunity to step onto a golf course, grip a club, and discover their potential. Our non-profit is dedicated to making golf accessible, equitable, and inclusive for all youth in the Metro Detroit area.We’ve crafted our programs to address the multifaceted challenges that often keep young people away from golf:
- Course Access: We’ve partnered with four premier golf courses in the area, ensuring our students have regular access to real, competitive environments.
- Equipment: Through donations and partnerships, we provide properly fitted clubs and attire to every student, eliminating financial barriers.
- Transportation: Our coordinated transportation program bridges the gap between school and the golf course, making regular practice a reality for all.
- Instruction: Our skilled coaches don’t just teach golf—they mentor, building character and life skills that extend far beyond the fairway.
- Family Involvement: We offer workshops for parents, creating a supportive community around our young golfers.
Stix Golf Academy is more than a training ground for future golfers—it’s a launchpad for future leaders. We’re committed to nurturing not just skilled athletes, but well-rounded individuals who carry the values of integrity, perseverance, and sportsmanship into every aspect of their lives.As we look to the future, we see a Detroit where golf is no longer a game of exclusivity, but a pathway to opportunity for all. We’re honored to carry forward Rollin Marion’s legacy, one swing at a time, opening doors for the next generation of golfers and leaders in our community.Join us in our mission. Together, we can ensure that every child has the chance to tee up their dreams and shoot for success, both on and off the course.