Inaugural Wish Classic Golf Tournament to Benefit Make-A-Wish Children with Critical Illnesses in Louisiana
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA (SEPT. 10, 2026) – The Wish Classic Event Committee, in partnership with Make-A-Wish ® Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana and title sponsors Atmos Energy and Mauldin & Jenkins + LaPorte, are proud to announce the inaugural Wish Classic Golf Tournament, taking place on September 10, 2026, at TPC Louisiana. This inspiring day will bring together community leaders, supporters, and advocates united by a shared mission: creating life-changing wishes for children battling critical illnesses.
“There is nothing like the spirit of New Orleans. When this community rallies, it changes lives. The Wish Classic is our chance to stand together and make sure every child waiting for a wish in Louisiana feels that love and support,” said Shelly Millwee, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana.
Beginning at 7:30 a.m. with registration and breakfast, the tournament will tee off at 8:00 a.m., followed by a lunch, reception, and awards ceremony at noon. Set against the premier backdrop of TPC Louisiana, the event promises a memorable day of camaraderie, purpose, and impact.
More than just a golf tournament, the Wish Classic represents hope for the 300+ children in Louisiana currently waiting for their wishes to be granted.
"We are incredibly proud to stand alongside Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana as a sponsor for the inaugural Wish Classic at TPC Louisiana. Knowing that there are more than 300 children right here in our state waiting for a wish, we felt a deep calling to help move those moments from ‘someday’ to ‘now.’ This tournament is more than just a day on the golf course; it is a collective mission to deliver hope and joy to Louisiana families when they need it most,” said Chavgney G. Pierce, Partner at Mauldin & Jenkins + LaPorte
"At Atmos Energy, compassion to give back flows through the heart and soul of our employees. As part of our commitment to Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities, we are proud to support the Make-A-Wish Foundation. We hope to fuel hope, strength, and joy for children and families right here in the communities we call home," said Oric Walker, President of the Louisiana Division at Atmos Energy
The inaugural Wish Classic is led by Tommy Fonseca, Director of Development for Louisiana. With deep roots in the New Orleans business community, including experience with the Zurich Classic, Fonseca has built a strong network of volunteers and leaders to support the event. He is joined by Ashlyn Matute, Development Manager for the market, and a growing team of five based in Metairie. This expansion reflects significant local growth over the past year and marks an important step in strengthening mission delivery across the region.
The event supports the mission of Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana, which has granted more than 12,300 wishes since its founding in 1984. Today, thanks to generous donors and volunteers, more than two wishes are granted every day across the chapter territory.
Funds raised through the Wish Classic will directly support a wide range of wishes—from dream vacations and once-in-a-lifetime experiences to life-enhancing gifts such as playsets, adaptive equipment, and creative opportunities.
One such child is New Orleans based Jacob, age 5, who is courageously battling leukemia. He wished to have an ocean-themed bedroom makeover, and last week, his wish was granted. Stories like his illustrate the profound impact a wish can have—not only for the child, but also for their family and the surrounding community.
By participating in the Wish Classic, golfers and sponsors become part of a compassionate network dedicated to making the impossible possible.
To learn more, visit wishclassic.org