(Aug. 25, 2025) – Katie Falk has built a legacy in Wisconsin golf, both through her championship career and her dedication to nurturing the next generation. From her early days as a determined 11-year-old competitor to her decades of dominance on the state and national stage, Falk’s journey reflects not just a passion for the game, but a deep commitment to mentoring the next generation. Her involvement with First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin spans an incredible 25 years, marked by leadership, service, and dedication to youth. Now in her 8th year as a board member and serving as an active volunteer, Katie remains committed to building a stronger game and brighter future for the youth we serve.
From First Swing to Hall of Fame
Falk first picked up a club as a child in Fond du Lac, where her father introduced her to the game. By 11, she was playing in tournaments, often traveling with her father to compete across Wisconsin. “I remember how excited I was just to play,” she recalls. “There weren’t many opportunities for girls, so I played wherever I could.” Falk had to carve her own path and became one of the first girls in Wisconsin to qualify for her high school’s boys’ team, holding her own in competition and proving that talent transcends gender barriers.
Over the years, Falk built one of the most decorated amateur golf careers in Wisconsin history. She won 21 state titles, including multiple WWSGA Match Play championships and the 1973 Women’s Western Amateur, where she defeated future LPGA legend Nancy Lopez. She competed in more than 250 state tournaments and played in over two dozen USGA championships, including the U.S. Women’s Open and U.S. Women’s Senior Amateur. Ranked as high as 10th nationally, Falk’s precision, short game mastery, and competitive fire carried her across seven decades of play, earning her induction into the Wisconsin Golf Hall of Fame.
Lessons Beyond the Scorecard
Despite her many achievements, Falk is quick to emphasize the basics when she teaches juniors at First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin programming. She stresses the importance of short game, etiquette, and patience. “It’s not always about hitting it the farthest,” she says. “Golf teaches you honesty, resilience, and how to recover when things don’t go your way.”
Off the course, Falk has been a realtor since 1974, serving as a partner at Falk Ruvin Gallagher, and has lent her expertise to several boards, but golf has remained a constant source of purpose — as a competitor, mentor, and volunteer. She credits the game with shaping her discipline and determination, qualities she strives to pass on to others.
Giving Back with First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin
Falk’s passion for golf extends far beyond her own game, inspiring and mentoring the next generation through her work with First Tee. She has served as a dedicated board member while also volunteering at First Tee’s Lake Park programming and at Noyes Park during Neighborhood House of Milwaukee sessions. At Lake Park, she supports Program Director Tom Gerke by working one-on-one with participants, encouraging them to enjoy the game and stay engaged. Her approach is rooted in simplicity and fun — ensuring that kids not only learn golf skills, but also develop a genuine love for the game.
“I’m really more of a listener than a teacher,” she says. “Tom is such a wonderful coach — he keeps things simple. I’ll step in with a few things here and there, but mostly I just try to let them be and have fun. Because if they’re having fun, they’ll keep playing.”
Her words reflect not just a coaching philosophy, but a genuine care for creating positive, lasting experiences for young golfers.
With Neighborhood House of Milwaukee, Falk helps to bring the game to children who might otherwise not have the chance to play. “It’s about more than golf,” she explains. “It’s about giving kids a place to grow, learn values, and feel supported.”
Lasting Impact
Katie Falk’s story is one of persistence, passion, and generosity. She has not only left her mark on leaderboards, but also in the lives of countless young players who see in her a model of what’s possible when talent meets determination.
As she continues to compete, mentor, and give back, one thing is certain: Katie Falk’s impact on Wisconsin golf will continue to be felt for generations.
Inspired by Katie’s story? Join us as a mentor and help young golfers grow on and off the course. Learn more about how you can get involved.