Kiawah Island, SC – PGA REACH Carolinas proudly hosted its 8th Annual PGA HOPE Carolinas Cup presented by TD Bank on Monday, November 10th, at the scenic Cougar Point Golf Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort. This signature Veterans Day week event celebrated the PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) program—honoring the achievements of Veteran graduates, fostering camaraderie among military members, and showcasing the positive impact golf continues to have on the lives of our nation’s heroes.

Twenty PGA HOPE teams from across the Carolinas came together for a day of friendly yet spirited competition. The event featured 60 Veterans and Active Duty service members alongside 20 PGA Professionals and Associates, exemplifying the strength and community found through PGA HOPE.

Festivities began on Sunday with practice rounds under perfect weather, followed by an Armed Forces Mixer sponsored by the TPC Freedom Foundation. Participants connected with fellow PGA HOPE graduates and professionals, while World Long Drive Champion Jeff Crittenden, PGA, delivered an electrifying performance that kicked off the weekend in true HOPE Cup fashion.

Competition day brought cooler temperatures but high spirits as the teams teed off for a 9-hole scramble. On the front nine, PGA HOPE Sanford, led by Deron Lee, PGA, alongside Veterans Marc Eckard (Army) and Andy Kohlberg (Army), posted an impressive score of 29. On the back nine, three teams—PGA HOPE Fayetteville, PGA HOPE Parris Island, and PGA HOPE Greenville—tied at 28. After a scorecard playoff, PGA HOPE Fayetteville emerged victorious in the back nine division.

Closest to the Pin Winners:
• #2 – Claude Moore, PGA HOPE Raleigh
• #6 – Kenneth Gioia, PGA HOPE Greensboro
• #12 – Adam Hoeh, PGA HOPE Buies Creek
• #14 – Jeff Cashion, PGA HOPE Myrtle Beach

The championship playoff between PGA HOPE Sanford and PGA HOPE Fayetteville took place on the iconic 18th hole at Cougar Point. Both teams stuck their approach shots close, conceding birdies and sending the playoff into a dramatic chip-off over the bunker on 18 green. With the pressure on, Fayetteville’s second chip landed just four feet from the pin—securing the victory and igniting cheers from the crowd.

Congratulations to PGA HOPE Fayetteville:

  • Brock White, PGA

  • Michael Schwind – Army

  • James Buchanan – Army

  • Johnny Sears – Army

Following the exciting finish, participants gathered on the back lawn of Cougar Point for the HOPE Cup Reception. John Brooker, Wade Edwards Term Professor of Law and Director of the Military and Veterans Law Clinic at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, shared his ongoing commitment to serving Veterans. Sheldon Hilaire, Regional Vice President of TD Bank, also addressed the group, expressing gratitude to the Veterans and Active Duty personnel for their service and contributions.

The Carolinas PGA extends its deepest thanks to TD Bank, the presenting partner of the PGA HOPE Cup, and to the many sponsors and individuals who make this event possible. Special appreciation goes to Kiawah Island Golf Resort President Roger Warren, PGA, Director of Golf Brian Gerard, PGA, Head PGA Professional and Carolinas PGA President Josh Wagaman, PGA and the entire KIGR staff for their continued support and hospitality in hosting this meaningful celebration of service, golf, and community.

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Click here to donate to Carolinas PGA REACH Foundation!