October 9, 2024 | Alexis Deese
The Louisiana Junior Golf Tour is awarding its 2024 Girls’ Player of the Year to Evelynn Artieta of Denham Springs, the 2024 Boys’ Player of the Year to Slayte Guidry of Shreveport, and the 2024 Boys’ 11-13 Player of the Year to Derby Everson of Shreveport
Lafayette – Evelynn Artieta of Denham Springs has made an impact during the 2024 golf season, competing in seven tournaments and achieving numerous successes. She secured first place at the LJGT at Calvert Crossing and her success continued as she won the 23rd Louisiana Women’s Four-Ball Championship alongside her partner, Maci Williams of Brusly, who finished as runner-up for Player of the Year. Artieta was also selected to represent Louisiana as part of the 2024 Junior River Cup team. During the tournament, she and Williams excelled in the first round of the Four-Ball Match Play. Artieta’s skills continued at the LJGT Tour Championship, where she was the Overall Girls’ Champion. Entering the Tour Championship, Artieta was ranked third for Player of the Year but her first-place finish allowed her to claim two coveted titles. The competition for Player of the Year was fierce, with Artieta narrowly defeating Williams by just 20 points. Artieta’s determination shone through as she began the Championship strong, going four under par (-4) in the first round, which gave her the lowest round of the entire tournament. As the season concludes, the LJGT proudly recognizes Evelynn Artieta as the Girls’ Player of the Year, a title that reflects not only her accomplishments on the golf course but also her potential for future success. The LJGT is excited to support her promising future in golf.
While the competition among the other divisions was intense, the Boys 11-13 division proved to be particularly thrilling. Derby Everson of Shreveport had an exciting season, participating in nine tournaments—the highest number of any junior player, tied with Owen Lejeune of Baton Rouge. Everson showcased his talent and determination by securing second place in three tournaments and claiming victory at both LJGT at U-Club and the GSPGA Junior Championship. His impressive performances throughout the season also earned him a spot on Team Louisiana for the 2024 Junior River Cup. As he entered the Tour Championship, Everson held a significant lead in the rankings and faced a fierce challenge from Grey Ramsey of Choudrant, who finished a mere 13.33 points behind. Everson’s outstanding performance and consistency throughout the season allowed him to maintain his position at the top of the rankings. Among his many accomplishments, one of Everson’s standout moments came during the second round of LJGT at U-Club, where he displayed his skill by sinking nine birdies. This remarkable feat not only contributed to his victory but also earned him the affectionate nickname “Derby ‘Birdie’ Everson.” His ability to navigate challenging courses has made him a player to watch. The LJGT congratulates Everson on his remarkable achievements this season and is excited to see what the future holds for this talented young golfer. With his passion for the game and impressive track record, there’s no doubt that he will continue to make waves in the golfing world.
The Boys’ Player of the Year award came down to the Tour Championship held at Ellendale Country Club, leaving everyone uncertain about the final outcome. During the 2024 season, Slayte Guidry of Shreveport participated in eight tournaments, achieving notable success at the David Toms Junior Championship, where he placed third overall and was the Boys’ 15 & Under Champion. He also tied for third at LJGT at U-Club, finished second in LJGT at Calvert Crossing, and was a member of the Junior River Cup team competing against Mississippi. Entering the Tour Championship, Guidry was ranked second in the Player of the Year standings, while Maddox Mowad of Monroe was in third. Both players tied for fifth in the tournament, but Guidry’s performance throughout the year secured him the Player of the Year title, finishing an impressive 22.5 points ahead of Mowad. In addition to his Player of the Year honors, Guidry also clinched the Boys’ 15 & Under title at the Tour Championship. His exceptional achievements this season clearly demonstrate that he is more than deserving of this award.
It was an outstanding 2024 season for all three of our Louisiana Junior Players of the Year, and the future is bright for Evelynn, Derby, and Slayte. A big congratulations to these exceptional players!
Click here to view final LJGT Player of the Year points.
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