The University of St. Thomas Celt Classic Golf Tournament, hosted on Nov. 10, 2025 at the River Oaks Country Club, raised more than $280,000 in support of UST Athletics, which more than doubled last year’s proceeds.
Athletic Director Todd Smith said he and the student-athletes are incredibly grateful for the record-breaking support shown at this year’s Celt Classic.
“The generosity of our community directly strengthens the experience of our student-athletes and helps them compete, grow and lead with confidence,” Smith said. “This tournament reflects the spirit of UST — people coming together to invest in something bigger than themselves.”
This year’s tournament was led by the leadership of Co-Chairs Louis “Lou” Pelz ’80 and Bruce Davidson ’83, Honorary Chairs Frank and Gloria Kalman, Alumni Chair Michael Fasci ’17, and Celt Classic honoree Joseph A. Cleary, Jr. Alumni and supporters gathered for the tournament, and student-athletes were stationed at select holes, engaging with players and offering “celebrity tee shots” to the teams. Winners included 1st Place Low Gross Team: Peter Fluor & K.C. Weiner; and 1st Place Low Net Team: U.S. Lime & Minerals, Inc. In a special moment during the awards reception, former UST President Dr. Robert Ivany honored Cleary, thanking him for his dedication to UST and UST Athletics.
Davidson said co-chairing the Celt Classic was an honor and a meaningful way to support the University that has had a profound impact on his life.
“It was a privilege to help lead this tournament, knowing the impact these funds will have on our student-athletes,” Davidson said. “The opportunities provided through the Celt Classic allow our golf programs and all of UST Athletics to compete at a higher level and grow in meaningful ways. Our sincere thanks go to River Oaks Country Club for their exceptional hospitality in helping us deliver a first-class event.”
UST extends special appreciation to Presenting Sponsors — The Cleary Family, Peter Fluor & K.C. Weiner, and Fayez Sarofim & Co. — whose generosity and partnership helped make this event possible. Proceeds from the Celt Classic directly benefit UST’s men’s and women’s golf teams, as well as all UST Athletics, supporting nearly 400 student-athletes across 21 NCAA Division III programs.
UST President Dr. Sinda Vanderpool gave special thanks to the co-chairs, supporters and those who teed up during her remarks at the tournament.
“Your presence and participation means so much to us and to our student-athletes,” Dr. Vanderpool said. “When alumni come back to support their alma mater, they reinforce the sense of community that makes UST so special. Your involvement and generosity directly enhance the programs, scholarships and experiences that shape future generations. Lastly, a heartfelt thank you to all of you who played in today’s tournament. Your participation not only made this event a success but also helps us build a brighter future for UST Athletics. We hope to see you all at next year’s tournament. Go Celts!”
To learn more about UST Athletics, visit ustcelts.com. See the full list of Celt Classic sponsors below.
2025 UST CELT CLASSIC SPONSOR LIST
Money Raised $280,000
Presenting Sponsors
The Cleary Family
Peter Fluor & K.C. Weiner
Diamond Sponsors
Dignity Memorial
Frank & Gloria Kalman
Harvey Cleary
Russell Marine, LLC
Scanlan Foundation
The Friedkin Group
Third Coast Bank
Gold Sponsors
Brian & Stephanie Sauer
Corgan Associates
Daniel Levitt
Eric Mullins
Industrial Fabrics, Inc.
John Kelly ’69 or John Kelly & Friends
Ken & Sarah Fisher
Lou ’80 & Lori Pelz
Martin Marietta Materials
Raye White
Shane Heise
The Zarcaro Family
Turner & Townsend Heery
United States Lime & Minerals, Inc.
Waste Connections
Tournament Supporters
Gulf Coast Commercial Group
Gwin Family Foundation
Johnny Carrabba Family of Restaurants
Breakfast Sponsor
Houston Zoo
Lunch Sponsor
Bullpen Marketing
Beverage Station Sponsor
Steve Lindley
Awards Reception Sponsor
W.T. Byler
Mike & Nikki Fasci
Driving Range Sponsor
Lodge Lumber
Putting Green Sponsor
Doug & Lori Wrinkle
Hole In One Car Sponsor:
Westside Lexus
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