Twenty veterans completed PGA HOPE’s free golf program, gaining new skills and building connections with fellow service members
Twenty military veterans celebrated a new milestone at PGA Frisco on Oct. 21, completing a golf program designed to build skills on the course and connections beyond it.
The graduates completed PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere), the PGA of America REACH Foundation’s flagship military program. The free, six- to eight-week series introduces veterans and active-duty service members to golf while supporting their physical, mental, social and emotional well-being.
For the graduation celebration, participants were scheduled to play The Swing, PGA Frisco’s 10-hole, par-3 course, before gathering for an evening ceremony recognizing their progress and the relationships they built along the way.
For Tim Cusick, head coach at the PGA of America Coaching Center, the program is one way to recognize the service of military members and give something back.
“We can’t give back enough for what they’ve done for us and to make our lives safe in the United States; it’s the least that we can do,” Cusick previously told Local Profile.
Through a formal agreement with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, PGA HOPE also serves as a therapeutic and rehabilitative program for veterans.
More Than A Game
PGA HOPE Ambassador Matt Foster said he views the program as another resource for veterans navigating life after military service. “For me, it represents another tool in the toolbox as we continue our journey of healing, growth and connection after military service,” Foster said.
The clinics give participants a chance to learn golf in a welcoming environment, meet other veterans and form relationships with PGA of America golf professionals. Foster said those connections can continue well after the final session.
“Graduation isn’t an ending,” he said. “It’s the beginning of a new chapter.”
Foster also sees parallels between golf and the challenges veterans face outside the military. A round rarely goes exactly as planned, requiring players to adjust, stay patient and keep moving forward. He said the game gives veterans room to practice resilience and adaptability while enjoying time with people who understand their experiences.
“Golf is the closest game to the game we call life,” Foster said, referencing a quote from golfer Bobby Jones.
Some of the program’s most valuable interactions happen away from the swing itself, Foster added. Conversations between shots and encouragement from fellow veterans can help participants feel less isolated and develop a support network.
“Those connections can help combat isolation and create a support system that extends well beyond the golf course,” Foster said. “Golf is a vehicle, but the real impact is the community it builds and the relationships that help Veterans continue to grow, heal and thrive.”
Frisco Community Helps Veterans Stay Connected
Frisco’s golf industry and military-support network have helped PGA HOPE serve veterans in North Texas. The Northern Texas PGA Section and PGA of America headquarters are both based in the city, providing a local foundation for the program.
2025 PGA HOPE Graduation Ceremony. Photo: PGA of America
Foster said golf courses have offered facilities for clinics at no cost to participants, while some continue supporting graduates with discounted access to play. Those opportunities help veterans maintain the friendships and routines they develop during the program.
Community partnerships also help bring attention to the cause. One upcoming event is Texas Legends Military Appreciation Night, presented by Swypit, benefiting PGA HOPE during the team’s home opener on Nov. 13.
“That kind of support demonstrates what makes Frisco special,” said Foster. “When local businesses, sports organizations, golf facilities and community leaders come together around a shared mission, we can create lasting opportunities for Veterans and strengthen the community as a whole.”
How North Texans Can Get Involved
Foster said residents do not have to play golf to help PGA HOPE reach more veterans. Sharing information about the program, volunteering as an instructor, offering golf facilities and equipment, or providing financial support can all help expand its reach.
Nationally, PGA HOPE has reported a waitlist of more than 14,000 veterans, highlighting the demand for additional programming. Foster pointed to Hope4Heroes, a campaign that raises funds for PGA HOPE programs through the Northern Texas PGA Section. Donations help fund clinics and golf outings for graduates, giving participants opportunities to stay involved after completing the initial program.
He also encouraged PGA professionals, local businesses and community organizations to consider partnerships that create more opportunities for veterans to learn the game and remain connected.
For veterans who are interested but hesitant to sign up, Foster’s message is simple: No prior golf experience is necessary, and participants do not need to own clubs.
“It’s a completely free program for military Veterans, regardless of their experience with golf,” Foster said. “You don’t need to know how to play, own clubs, or have any idea what to expect when you arrive. All you need to bring is a willingness to give it a try.”
He also offered another interpretation of the program’s name. Beyond Helping Our Patriots Everywhere, Foster said PGA HOPE can mean “Healing Opens Possibilities Everywhere.”
“You may sign up thinking you’re simply going to learn how to play golf. You might leave with new friends, a stronger support system, a renewed sense of purpose and a community you didn’t even realize you were missing,” he said.
For Foster, the goal is to make sure veterans know they have a place to turn as they adjust to life after service.
“My message would simply be: Give it a chance. You’ve spent time serving others. You deserve an opportunity to invest in yourself, too. You don’t have to navigate the next chapter alone, and PGA HOPE is a great place to start.”
Don’t miss anything Local. Sign up for our free newsletter.