10th Annual SkinnerStrong Golf Tournament Honors Joe Skinner’s Legacy

UPDATE: This Friday, December 19, 2025, the 10th Annual SkinnerStrong Charity Golf Tournament will take place at Shingle Creek Golf Club in Orlando, honoring the legacy of Joe Skinner, a talented baseball player who died from leukemia at just 17 years old. The event not only commemorates Joe’s life but also raises crucial funds for childhood leukemia research, providing support to families battling this devastating disease.

Ten years have passed since Joe lost his battle against a rare form of leukemia, but his spirit remains vibrant through the efforts of his parents, Judy and Scott Skinner. The SkinnerStrong Foundation, established in Joe’s memory, continues to make a significant impact, funding scholarships and supporting families in crisis.

“Joe’s legacy is about more than baseball. It’s about character, resilience, and love,” Scott Skinner emphasized. “Every swing, every laugh, every reunion at this golf tournament is a reminder that his light continues to shine.”

Joe Skinner was a beloved athlete at Bishop Moore High School, where he was known for his exceptional talent and his ability to connect with peers from all walks of life. His commitment to play for University of Central Florida (UCF) was a testament to his potential and passion. Tragically, his life was cut short after a swift and aggressive battle with cancer, diagnosed just months before his passing on April 30, 2016.

As the tournament approaches, the Skinners reflect on the profound impact Joe had on those around him. “It doesn’t feel like 10 years,” Judy Skinner said, expressing the enduring pain of losing a child. “You never get over when one of your children dies.”

Throughout his illness, Joe remained a beacon of hope and determination. His final at-bat, taken amid cheers from the crowd, symbolized his unyielding spirit and love for the game. Even as he faced unimaginable challenges, he inspired those around him, uniting friends and teammates in ways that transcended sports.

The SkinnerStrong Foundation has successfully raised funds that not only support research but also provide essential resources to families navigating the harrowing journey of childhood cancer. Each dollar raised at the tournament serves as a reminder of Joe’s legacy and the community’s commitment to fighting against leukemia.

As the event draws near, anticipation builds within the community. Participants and supporters alike are reminded that this gathering is more than just a golf tournament; it is a celebration of life, love, and resilience. It is an opportunity to honor a young man whose life, though brief, continues to inspire and uplift countless others.

For those looking to participate or donate, details can be found at skinnerstrong.org/events-registration. As the tournament unfolds, Joe Skinner’s story will continue to be carried forward—through every scholarship funded, every family supported, and every community member united in the fight against childhood cancer.

Joe’s legacy is not just about loss; it is about the enduring impact one individual can have on the world. As we approach this milestone, we remember that, ten years later, Joe Skinner’s light is still shining brightly, reminding us all of the importance of compassion, strength, and community.