Carter Bonas {courtesy}
At just 14 years old, Coral Springs’ own Carter Bonas is living proof that autism isn’t a limitation—it’s a superpower.
Carter first gained notoriety when he was named Sports Illustrated’s 2022 SportsKid of the Year, and he’s continued to shine both on and off the golf course.
Diagnosed with high-functioning Asperger’s Syndrome, a social and communication disability on the autism spectrum, Carter has transformed personal challenges into a platform for advocacy, empowerment, and positive change.
On Saturday, April 26, Carter, now an 8th grader at the Digital Academy of Florida, will host the Second Annual Autism Awareness Golf Tournament at the Country Club of Coral Springs. The event will feature a day of golf, community, and lots of inspiration courtesy of Carter, who will use it to celebrate the official launch of his debut memoir, Swinging Beyond the Spectrum: How Autism Became My Superpower On and Off the Golf Course.
“Autism is my superpower,” Carter said in a recent interview with Coral Springs Talk. “I hope this tournament and my book show people that being different isn’t a barrier—it’s an advantage.”
Coral Springs Talk has followed Carter’s journey closely since 2022, when we first introduced readers to his rising star following his Sports Illustrated honor. Since then, the founder of Spectrum Golf, a skin-sensitivity-friendly golf apparel brand, has turned his vision into a force for good.
Carter Bonas on the cover of Sports Ilustrated.
Last year’s inaugural tournament set the tone for what Carter hopes becomes an annual tradition.
“One of the highlights was a sensory overload putting station, where participants wore special goggles to simulate what it’s like to experience sensory overload,” he explained, adding, “That was really powerful. And I’ll never forget the spirit of giving, like when my dad won a raffle and gave his prize back to someone else.”
This year, the event has grown in both scale and impact. Guests can expect golf challenges, sensory demos, a documentary crew capturing the day, and a limited-edition t-shirt drop with only 100 pieces available.
The Coral Springs Police Department’s autism outreach team will also attend to provide resources to families.
“Seeing my idea come to life and having so many people show up was truly amazing,” Carter said of last year’s event. “When people tell me my story motivates them, it inspires me to keep going.”
Carter has already made a sizable impact through his nonprofit, Carter’s Spectrum Golf, which provides free lessons and gear to underserved kids and veterans. So far, the initiative has supported over 64 individuals and counting.
“My goal is to reach even more participants and create a welcoming environment where everyone can learn, grow, and build confidence through the game of golf.”
Carter’s accolades keep coming. It was just announced that he will be inducted into the African American Golfers Hall of Fame in May, recognizing his influence in sports and advocacy. He also recently recorded his best tournament score ever and continues working with mentor Seneca Smith to manage the stress of competition.
The tournament was initially planned for April 25—officially recognized as “Carter Bonas Day” in Lauderhill—but due to a scheduling conflict, it was moved to Saturday. That day, however, will still hold significance.
“We plan to have our Youth Golf Tour culminate every April 25 in celebration of Autism Awareness Month and youth achievement,” Carter said.
Looking forward, Carter has big dreams. He’s already planning a nationwide book tour to spread awareness about autism and promote reading, while sharing the message of hope, hard work, and self-belief.
“I want to inspire more people, especially young readers, to believe in themselves, stay resilient, and pursue their dreams,” he said. “And my mom and I just bought a farm where we’ll teach kids how to grow their food and live healthier lives.”
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