ORLANDO, Fla. (October 8, 2025) – The ANNIKA Foundation is proud to announce Rachel Heck as the inaugural recipient of the ANNIKA Inspiration Award presented by Cleveland Brothers. This prestigious new honor celebrates women who are using their influence, passion, and leadership to inspire others beyond their competitive achievements in golf.

The ANNIKA Inspiration Award was developed to recognize women who are making a meaningful impact in areas such as civil service, education, social advocacy, entrepreneurship, mental health, arts, sports, or environmental activism, to name a few examples. Recipients are selected not only for their excellence in performance, but for their commitment to creating a legacy of empowerment, transformation, and positive change.

As a decorated junior and amateur golfer, as well as an NCAA Champion, All-American standout at Stanford University, and ANNIKA Award winner, Heck’s accomplishments extend far beyond the fairways. After graduating from Stanford in 2024 with a degree in political science, she was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force Reserve.

She has completed her public affairs course at the Defense Information School (DINFOS) and completed assignments so far at Los Angeles Air Force Base, Travis Air Force Base, and Hurlburt Field. Heck has worked in private equity following her graduation from Stanford and is scheduled to move to New York City this fall as she continues to chart her path forward.

Choosing not to pursue a professional golf career, Heck instead committed herself to a dual path in the Air Force and helping others—decisions that reflect the resilience, vision, and service-oriented spirit at the heart of the ANNIKA Inspiration Award.

“Rachel is a shining example of how success in sport can be a platform for greater purpose,” said Annika, founder of the ANNIKA Foundation. “She has achieved incredible things as a golfer, but what makes her truly special is the way she uses her platform to encourage, mentor, and make a real difference in the lives of others. We are thrilled to honor her as the first-ever recipient of the ANNIKA Inspiration Award.”

Heck commented, “I’m deeply honored to receive the ANNIKA Inspiration Award. For a long time, I feared that stepping away from the game would be viewed negatively, as if it meant the end of my journey. I knew, however, that it was just the beginning, and I’m so grateful that the ANNIKA Foundation celebrates using golf as a steppingstone to chase new goals and impact others beyond the sport. The values golf has taught me—discipline, resilience, and grit—have empowered me to climb mountains I never imagined possible, and I hope my story encourages young female athletes to see their athletic careers as a foundation to climb their own.”

Supported by Cleveland Brothers, the award reflects a shared commitment to celebrating women who are breaking barriers, leading with compassion, and leaving an enduring impact on their communities and beyond.

"Supporting Rachel and the Annika Inspiration Award isn't just about golf; it's about empowering women to fearlessly pursue their passions,” said Jay Cleveland, President and CEO of Cleveland Brothers. “Rachel Heck embodies the very values Cleveland Brothers champions: leadership, resilience, and a commitment to service, all of which are forged through her dedicated pursuit of what she loves. We are proud to stand alongside trailblazers like Rachel and honor women who push limits and inspire others to not only find what fuels them but to embrace it while building a brighter tomorrow."

Roberta Bowman (an ANNIKA Foundation Board Member) also played a major role in developing and launching this special award.

Given Rachel’s tie to the military, Folds of Honor will be providing five $10,000 scholarships ($50,000 in total) to spouses and children of fallen and disabled military and first responders heroes in Rachel’s and the Award’s name.

Rachel Heck Named First Recipient of the ANNIKA Inspiration Award

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