BOYLSTON, Mass. – PGA REACH New England, is excited to announce the invitation to compete in the annual Secretary’s Cup, hosted by Chester Valley Golf Club on Monday, May 11th.
PGA HOPE Secretary’s Cup celebrates the PGA HOPE program by providing a unique and memorable experience for our Veterans and the PGA Professionals who work tirelessly to positively impact Veterans’ lives. This annual event, in conjunction with the week of PGA Championship, began in 2016 and is named after the Secretary of Veteran Affairs in recognition of the Memorandum of Understanding between PGA REACH and the Department of Veteran Affairs.
This year marks the second time the New England Section has been invited to the national stage. The Section made its memorable debut in 2023, represented by an inspiring all-women’s team. A total of 12 groups compete annually, each comprising one PGA Professional and four PGA HOPE graduates.
Representing Team New England; Joel Jenkins, PGA (Mount Pleasant GC), Sherry Dellascio (HOPE Boston, Navy – 2003-2007), Kenny Celeste (HOPE Burlington, Navy – 2007-2020), Blake Crist (HOPE Hyannis, USMC 2006-2010), and Colleen Nevius (HOPE Portland, Navy 1977-2003).
PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere), is the flagship six to eight week Veteran golf instruction program of PGA REACH New England. PGA HOPE introduces golf to veterans with disabilities to enhance their physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being. Participants of PGA HOPE New England programs include military Veterans living with physical and cognitive challenges such as Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post -Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
“I have witnessed how PGA HOPE transforms lives by providing veterans with a space to reconnect, support one another, and rebuild confidence,” said Celeste (HOPE Burlington). “Through golf, my fellow classmates have reduced stress, strengthened their mental well-being, and rediscovered a strong sense of camaraderie. PGA HOPE does not simply teach golf, it helps veterans heal and reconnect with the inner leader and sense of brotherhood forged through military service.”
As the spring golf season arrives, and PGA HOPE New England programs begin, Team New England will continue their instruction and skill development at one of 26 PGA HOPE locations across New England. All PGA HOPE programs are complimentary and open to any Veteran of the United States.
“PGA HOPE has given me the incredible gift of connecting with a community of military veterans and golf professionals, fostering unbreakable bonds with those who understand my journey, and discovering strength in golf as a competitive outlet that cultivates mental toughness and resilience,” said Dellascio (HOPE Boston).
Best of luck to Team New England.