Off the Green With Orla: Chasing Big Dreams on the Toptracer Prep Tour
At just 10 years old, Brian Kelley is already making waves on the South Florida PGA Toptracer Prep Tour presented by Callaway, a journey that began when he was only 2 years old.
Brian’s passion for golf started early. He fondly remembers spending time at the driving range alongside his father in Kansas City, Missouri. Adopted at 3 weeks old, Brian has always been surrounded by love and support, which has helped fuel his passion for golf.
“I loved watching him hit balls, and I’d try to copy everything he did,” Brian recalled of his Dad. “Sometimes, I didn’t even want to leave!”
Adoption has played a huge role in Brian’s life with supportive parents who recognized and acted on his talents early.
After earning a spot in the 2019 Junior World Championship held at Torrey Pines Golf Course at the age of 5, the Kelley family made a significant decision that would shape Brian’s future. They traded in the snowy winters of Missouri for the year-round golf season in south Florida, all so Brian could pursue his dream of playing the game he loved.
“They gave up their jobs and we moved to south Florida just so I could play golf all year round,” he said, reflecting on his parents’ support. “I'm so thankful to them for that.”
Once in Florida, Brian began competing in SFPGA Junior Tour events, starting with the Links Tour, which quickly became his favorite tournaments.
“We got to play on such amazing courses, and the [SFPGA] team running the tournaments was always so nice,” Brian said. “Plus, the PGA shirts, hats and gear were pretty awesome too.”
The tournaments also provided key learning experiences, especially when it came to reading greens on his own. “Our parents weren’t allowed to help us on the greens, so we had to figure it out ourselves,” Brian said. “I think that’s why I’ve become such a good putter.”
As his skills improved, Brian advanced to the Toptracer Prep Tour in 2023, where he embraced the challenge of carrying his own bag and handling the pressure just like the pros. His recent results speak for themselves — Brian has been a dominant force, going for a total six-under-par in his last four tournaments and winning them all. He credits his success to the preparation he gained from the SFPGA Junior tournaments.
Brian’s talent extends beyond playing in tournaments. For the past four years, he has competed in the Drive, Chip and Putt events, advancing to regionals in 2022 and hopes to one day make it to the final round at Augusta National.
His competitive spirit is just as strong in the classroom, where Brian maintains a 3.6 GPA and holds membership in the National Honor Society at Morningside Academy in Port St. Lucie.
Away from the course, Brian enjoys time with his family — whether it’s fishing, shooting hoops or heading to the beach. But his dream is clear:
“I want to play Division I golf in college and one day make it to the PGA TOUR.”
With his work ethic and the continued support of the SFPGA, Brian is confident that those dreams are within reach. “The [SFPGA] tournaments are so much fun and really help kids like me get better,” he said. “If I keep practicing and playing, I know I can achieve my dreams.”
Brian’s adopted family has given him the love and opportunities needed to chase his dreams and has shown how love, dedication, and sacrifice can change the trajectory of a child’s life.
For countless children, adoption opens doors to a brighter future. Families like the Kelleys show just how impactful it can be. Brian’s journey from a toddler on the driving range to a top player on the Toptracer Prep Tour is testament to his perseverance, overcoming the challenges he’s faced.
With his focus and determination, Brian is well on his way to achieving his dreams!
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