Meg Tilma added another chapter to one of Kansas golf’s most accomplished family stories this week, claiming the 2026 Kansas Women’s Amateur Championship at Wichita Country Club. The victory not only marked a milestone in Tilma’s career, but also cemented the Tilma family’s place in Kansas golf history.
For the Tilma family, however, the triumph represents far more than another trophy. Meg follows in the footsteps of her mother, Cathy (Stevens) Tilma, four-time champion of the Kansas Women’s Amateur, and older sister, Kate Tilma, who captured the Kansas Women’s Amateur title in 2020 while simultaneously winning the Kansas Junior Amateur that same summer. Kate’s victory established the family among Kansas golf’s elite, and Meg’s championship now strengthens that legacy for another generation.
Additionally, Cathy’s brother, Charlie Stevens, won the Kansas Amateur Match Play Championship in 2010. Cathy and Charlie’s father, Johnny Stevens, won the Amateur in 1960 and 1961. Johnny’s brother, Jack Stevens, won the Amateur in 1974. And to cap it off, Charlie’s son, Sam Stevens, won the Amateur in 2015.
In summary, the Stevens/Tilma golf history runs deep. Will we ever see another dynasty like this one?
At just 15 years old, Kaden Leivian has etched his name into Kansas golf history. The Wichita native captured the 2026 Kansas Amateur Match Play Championship at Mission Hills Country Club, becoming the youngest champion ever to win one of the state’s most prestigious titles. Leivian’s remarkable run through the bracket capped off a week that showcased both his immense talent and composure beyond his years.
Leivian’s triumph is a testament to the bright future of golf in Kansas. Competing against the state’s top amateur players, the Bishop Carroll standout displayed the confidence, patience, and shot-making ability of a seasoned veteran while still only entering his sophomore year of high school.
As the newest name engraved on the Kansas Amateur Match Play Championship trophy, Kaden Leivian has already secured his place in state golf history. At just 15 years old, however, his record-setting victory at Mission Hills may only be the beginning of what appears to be an extraordinary career.