Golf offers outlet for veteran wellness

SportsHealth

May 1

Photo courtesy of Kent County Veterans Services

Veterans are teeing up for a new opportunity to heal and connect through the PGA HOPE program. The free initiative from the Professional Golfers' Association of America introduces veterans and active-duty military to golf. The program promotes physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being through professional instruction and complimentary equipment while eliminating traditional barriers to the sport.

"It's a completely free program for these veterans," emphasized Kelly Plaisier, PGA Player Development Director, RedWater Golf, who led Tuesday's training session alongside other PGA instructors. "They don't need their own clubs, and prior golf experience isn't required. It's all about providing an opportunity."

The current six-week program takes place every Tuesday from April 15 to May 20 at Thornapple Pointe Golf Club in Cascade Township. Following the first week's focus on the full swing, this week's session centered on the intricacies of the short game.

"The short game involves putting, so half of the veterans began with putting drills. The session also included instruction on chipping and pitching techniques," said Plaisier.

Plaisier expressed the rewarding nature of working with this dedicated group of veterans.

"The veterans' personalities are so down to earth, which is right up my alley, so we joke with them and we laugh a lot," she said.

Plaisier says it's amazing to see veterans come together from different places to learn more about golf and have a great time.

"It fills my cup just as much as it fills their cup," she said.

Kent County Veterans Services was proud to promote this impactful program, which offers a unique avenue for veterans to improve their health and well-being through golf - and have fun along the way. Additional PGA HOPE sessions are planned for the summer, and two more in the fall. For more information, call the Michigan PGA Section Office at (517) 641-7421.