PGA REACH New England is excited to continue its spotlight series dedicated to sharing the goodwill and support of local communities by our PGA Professionals. Chipping In trumpets the story of individual PGA Professionals and his or her efforts to differentiate their facility and personal PGA Brand within the community. This month, we share the story of Seul-Ki Hawley, PGA, of Winchester Country Club.
About Seul-Ki:
I am a PGA professional dedicated to growing the game of golf through youth and veteran player development. In 2021, I was honored with the Massachusetts Chapter Youth Player Development Award for my commitment to mentoring and developing young golfers, and I was later recognized with the New England PGA Youth Player Development Award for continued leadership and impact in the game.
I am a certified instructor to teach veterans through the PGA HOPE program, where I work closely with veterans – particularly women veterans – to build confidence, camaraderie, and wellness through golf. In recognition of my service and leadership, I was acknowledged by Governor Baker and Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito for my commitment to the Women Veterans Network.
What is the name of the organization or program you would like to highlight?
PGA HOPE Boston – Women’s Veteran Program
What is the most rewarding thing about giving back to the community?
One of the most rewarding parts of this work is seeing veterans continue their journey beyond the program – participating in Operation Play Day tournaments, competing at events such as the Northeast HOPE Invitational and the Secretary Cup during the PGA Championship week and continuing to make golf a meaningful part of their lives. Watching veterans graduate from my program, staying in touch with the veterans, and helping them create their own paths through golf is incredibly fulfilling and reinforces why this mission is so important to me.
How has giving back to the community helped to raise awareness of your facility?
Being the host site and teaming up with fellow female PGA professionals to operate PGA HOPE Boston has elevated the profile of Winchester Country Club and its community impact. This program is one of five offered in the country. I have worked with the Winchester Country Club Ladies Golf Committee to organize a charity event to benefit the PGA HOPE Boston program and raising funds for the PGA REACH New England Foundation. Through these efforts, I have educated members and employees at the club about the impact of PGA HOPE.
How do you determine which charities to support?
Identifying your belief. I believe it is important for women to support and empower one another, creating opportunities for growth, confidence and success in our communities and throughout the world. Start by getting involved in your Section to find out what you are passionate about. Then you will find a group of people who share your views and ways to help the community.
Any recommendations on how someone can start to support their community?
One way someone can begin supporting their community is by looking into whether their facility can become a host site for programs through the PGA REACH New England Foundation. If hosting independently is not possible, another great option is to partner with another facility to operate a program together. Another way to support your community is by bringing awareness to these programs through social media and conversations at your club, helping others understand the positive impact of golf can have on veterans and the community as a whole.