YORK COUNTY, Pa. — A PGA-organized golf clinic is helping to support veterans both on and off the golf course. PGA HOPE, a free golf developmental program available for current and former military members, aims to strengthen the connection between veterans within communities across the United States.
Here in Pennsylvania, the PGA HOPE program is hosted at more than a dozen golf courses across the Commonwealth, including Regents Glen Country Club in York County.
"It started as something just to bring veterans together and give them an opportunity to try something new," said Roann Leatz, a PGA HOPE squad leader and 22-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force.
"PGA HOPE will always be one big family and the current camaraderie will always help them through that," said Erin Martin the foundation coordinator for PGA Reach Philadelphia, the overseeing foundation of the PGA HOPE program. "Our goal is to really spread the word and get veterans to have a better sense of community."
The program offers a free 6-to-8-week developmental clinic for veterans taught by PGA professionals, no matter if you are a beginner or seasoned golfer.
"This gives the tools for the novice and the golfer that's got a four handicap," said 28-year U.S. Army veteran Dwight Hollenbach. "You can learn from the pro here at the golf course to tweak your game or the fundamentals."
It's a program that will teach veterans a thing or two about gold while also connecting them with their brothers and sisters in arms.
"I don’t think it's necessarily just about golf, it’s about camaraderie," said Bill Brander, a PGA professional and 11-year U.S. Air Force veteran. "It’s about meeting other veterans who may be affected by the same things you’re affected by. Golf is our vehicle but that’s not what it's all about."
It creates a special connection through golf with a tad bit of rivalry that all of the program's current members encourage veterans to try themselves.
"I can tell you the program saved my life," said Leatz. "Try it, you might you might have a lot of fun, we got clubs for you. We got plenty of military rivalry too. It's just a good positive experience."
If you are a current or former military member and are interested in participating in a PGA HOPE program near you, visit PGA Reach Philadelphia's website for more information.