Autumn Solesbee is a 12-year old golfer whose inspiring journey from foster care to accomplished golfer has captivated many.  Autumn was in the foster care system until the age of 7, all the while dreaming of finding a forever family.  With the help of the Children’s Home Society of North Carolina, Autumn was introduced to Donnie and Jamie Solesbee in October of 2019. They formed an immediate bond and on April 21, 2020, her adoption was finalized, officially making Autumn part of the Solesbee family. 

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Autumn’s introduction to golf was serendipitous.  During a visit to Topgolf to meet her new grandfather, she picked up a golf club for the first time. The plan was just to hit balls for about thirty minutes and then have lunch as a family, but Autumn didn’t want to put down the clubs. She was hooked! The experience started what would become a passion for golf.

 

Autumn’s dedication and natural gift for golf quickly translated into national success. In 2021, Autumn participated in the Drive, Chip and Putt competition for the first time, a youth golf development initiative founded by The Masters Tournament, the PGA of America, and the USGA. She excelled through local and regional qualifiers, culminating in her winning the Girls 7-9 age division at the National Finals held at Augusta National Golf Club.

 

Beyond her personal accomplishments, Autumn’s story has resonated widely, symbolizing resilience

and the transformative power of love and support. Her journey has been featured in various national media outlets, highlighting not only her athletic accomplishments but also the profound impact of adoption and family. 

 

As she continues to grow both on and off the course, Autumn has a strong desire to help children who are in the foster care system. Through the Autumn’s Eagles Charity Golf Tournament, she strives to be an example of how life can be changed through adoption from foster care.  She hopes to show children in foster care that they, too, were Born to Soar!