Fore the Students: Athens Bible School’s Longstanding Tradition of Faith, Family, and Fairways

By Mark White | The Mark White Show

Credit: Marie Barnes /Athens Bible School

Athens, Alabama - At Athens Bible School, faith and family are at the heart of everything they do, and that even includes a day on the golf course. On October 27, the school will once again bring together supporters, alumni, and friends for the annual Fore the Students Golf Tournament at Canebrake Golf Club. The event has become one of the most anticipated days of the year for ABS, raising essential funds that directly support students, teachers, and classroom needs.

A Tradition Rooted in Purpose

According to ABS President Billy Bradford, the Fore the Students tournament began in the early 2000s as a creative way to supplement tuition income and help meet the school’s day-to-day operational needs. “It started as a way to raise funds to help cover some of the general costs of running the school,” Bradford explained. “Everything we do here is geared toward providing a Christ-centered education for our students. This tournament is one of our key fundraisers every year that helps us meet those needs.” Beyond the practical purpose, the tournament reflects the same spirit of fellowship that defines Athens Bible School itself, a place where students, parents, and alumni feel part of a lifelong family.

Building a Foundation of Support

Funds from the tournament have helped cover classroom materials, lab equipment, multimedia resources, and even supported competitive pay for the teachers who pour their hearts into the school’s mission. “Our teachers are the heart and soul of ABS,” Bradford said. “They sacrifice so much to be here, and events like this help give them the tools they need to make the classroom experience special for our students.” The Fore the Students Golf Tournament also gives ABS students a chance to contribute directly. Members of the Beta Club and other student organizations volunteer throughout the day, earning community service hours while helping the event run smoothly. “It’s great to see them serving,” Bradford said. “It shows people what kind of students we have here, respectful, hardworking, and full of heart.”

A Community Affair

This year’s tournament will be among the first major events held at Canebrake Golf Club following the course’s extensive renovation. The school’s partnership with Canebrake, along with presenting sponsor Champion Auto Group, ensures the event is both memorable and meaningful. “Champion has helped us a great deal,” Bradford noted. “They’ve provided support for prizes, advertising, and event costs, and everyone who comes will leave with a door prize. It’s just a fun, family-friendly day.” Participants can expect breakfast biscuits in the morning, lunch catered by Southern Table, door prizes, and plenty of fellowship between the morning and afternoon rounds. Bradford smiled as he said, “A bad day on the golf course is better than a good day in most offices.”

A School on the Move

Athens Bible School has experienced steady growth in recent years, now serving about 340 students on its modern Persell Campus. The school continues to expand academic and extracurricular offerings, from Beta Club achievements to the launch of its first-ever archery team this year. “We try to provide as many opportunities as possible,” Bradford said. “Not every student connects through the same sport or activity, so we’re excited to see so many interested in archery. It’s another way for them to grow and learn teamwork.” Ongoing fundraising efforts also support facility upgrades, including new concessions, restrooms, and press boxes between the baseball and softball fields, with hopes of adding a third field and lights in the near future.

Faith at the Center

For Bradford, who transitioned from coach to president, leading Athens Bible School is more than a job. It is a calling. “Every subject we teach, from math to science to literature, connects back to God and His creation,” he said. “Our mission since 1943 has been to provide a Christ-centered education. That hasn’t changed, and it never will.” He adds that the Fore the Students Golf Tournament is one more way the school lives out that mission by bringing people together in joy and service. “It’s about fellowship, faith, and fun, all while supporting something that truly matters.”

How to Get Involved

The Fore the Students Golf Tournament takes place October 27 at Canebrake Golf Club. Registration and sponsorship opportunities are still available through AthensBibleSchool.org or by calling 256-232-3525. Whether you tee off, volunteer, or simply cheer from the sidelines, you will be helping Athens Bible School continue its mission of faith-based education and lifelong community.