Joe Skinner’s Legacy Lives On at 10th Annual SkinnerStrong Golf Tournament

UPDATE: This Friday, December 19, 2025, marks the 10th annual SkinnerStrong Charity Golf Tournament, honoring the life and legacy of Joe Skinner, a talented Bishop Moore baseball star who passed away from a rare form of leukemia at just 17 years old. Hosted at Shingle Creek Golf Club in Orlando, this milestone event serves as a powerful reminder of Joe’s impact and the ongoing fight against childhood cancer.

For Judy and Scott Skinner, the years since their son’s tragic death feel both long and impossibly short. “It doesn’t feel like 10 years,” says Judy. “You never get over when one of your children dies.” Their grief has fueled the SkinnerStrong Foundation, which raises crucial funds for families battling childhood leukemia, ensuring Joe’s spirit lives on through their unwavering commitment.

Joe Skinner was not just a promising athlete; he was a beacon of positivity. Known for his ability to bridge social gaps, he inspired friends from all walks of life. A standout third baseman at Bishop Moore, he had already committed to play at the University of Central Florida before illness struck. Diagnosed with hypodiploid acute lymphoblastic leukemia in December 2015, he faced the disease with remarkable strength, continuing to support his team even during treatment.

The timeline of Joe’s illness was devastatingly swift: diagnosed in December, he passed away on April 30, 2016. His final moments were filled with love, surrounded by family. In a poignant tribute, Bishop Moore named their baseball field after him—Joe Skinner Field—a place where young athletes continue to chase their dreams, echoing Joe’s legacy.

The upcoming tournament isn’t just a game; it’s a vital fundraiser that has supported numerous families facing similar battles. Participants and donors can register at skinnerstrong.org/events-registration. Every contribution helps fund research and provide assistance to families in need, emphasizing hope over despair.

Joe’s story transcends the pain of loss. It highlights resilience, character, and the importance of community support. “Joe’s legacy is about more than baseball. It’s about character, resilience, and love,” states Scott Skinner. The SkinnerStrong Foundation has made a substantial impact over the past decade, funding research initiatives and providing scholarships, ensuring that Joe’s light continues to shine through every act of kindness and generosity.

As families gather at the tournament, they will celebrate not just Joe’s life, but the enduring spirit that unites them all. His legacy serves as a reminder that even in the face of tragedy, love and compassion can create pathways for hope. The Skinner family continues to honor Joe’s memory by bringing people together, fostering community spirit, and encouraging others to live life fully.

In a world often filled with division, Joe Skinner’s unwavering positivity and commitment to inclusivity resonate now more than ever. His story reminds us that a life well-lived continues to inspire and uplift others long after it has passed.

Join the SkinnerStrong movement—this Friday, let’s honor a good kid who taught us all how to stay strong and spread love amidst adversity.