Willingboro, N.J. (June 11, 2025) — PGA REACH Philadelphia kicked off their inaugural year of the PGA HOPE Philadelphia Tour with a tremendous first event at Rancocas Golf Club.
The PGA HOPE Philadelphia Tour was created this season to give PGA HOPE graduates (U.S. military veterans) an opportunity to stay connected, build community beyond their service, and enjoy the game of golf in a friendly, competitive environment. The season will feature events across the Philadelphia PGA Section, giving PGA HOPE graduates the chance to experience some of the region’s top courses. Players are grouped into seven divisions based on their USGA handicap, ensuring fair and balanced competition. This format provides a welcoming entry point for those who may be new to tournament golf, while still offering a competitive experience for all skill levels.
Rancocas Golf Club hosted the first PGA HOPE Philadelphia Tour event on a beautiful, sunny day, with 35 veterans arriving eager to compete. Awards were given to the top finishers in each division. The Trevino, Hogan, Nelson, Jones, and Hurley III flights competed in a gross 18-hole individual stroke play event, while the Snead Division competed in a net competition. The sole winner of the Trevino Division was Michael Jaye, with an 11-over-par 82. PGA HOPE Ambassador Aaron Ojard and Squad Leader Bill Lippincott claimed the top two spots in the Hogan Division with Ojard scoring an 82 to Lippincott’s 84. The Nelson Flight’s winning score was a 90, shot by Kenny Souders. Eric Newsome claimed second for the division with a 93. The Jones Flight was dominated by George Vasiloff who finished with an 85 to top Armond Pacentine by eight strokes. In the Hurley III Flight, the victors were James Nelson and Kenneth Merritt Jr. who shot 94 and 96, respectively. Finally, in the Snead Flight, Cynthia Clark claimed first prize with a net score of 5-under-par, while James Frawley finished in second with a net score of 71.
“The HOPE Tour was created to provide our veterans with a continued opportunity to stay engaged through the game of golf, while fostering a strong sense of community. These tournaments go beyond competition — they serve as a space for connection, camaraderie, and support among those who have served.” – Courtney Curcio, director of PGA REACH Philadelphia.
To view the full leaderboard, click here.
The PGA HOPE Tour would not be possible without the support of PGA Superstore, our PGA HOPE Graduates and supporters. PGA REACH Philadelphia also extends a warm thank you to its host, Bill Walker, PGA, and the Rancocas Golf Club Staff. The next event is set for July 7th at Berkshire Country Club.
About PGA REACH Philadelphia
PGA of America REACH Foundation Philadelphia is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2018 as the charitable arm of the Philadelphia PGA Section, one of the 41 Sections within the PGA of America. PGA REACH Philadelphia is committed to serving our communities and growing the game of golf through our three pillars: Youth, Military, and Diversity.
For more information on PGA REACH Philadelphia and its mission to positively impact lives through golf, visit pgareachphiladelphia.com To donate to PGA REACH Philadelphia, please click here.
About the Philadelphia PGA Section
The Philadelphia PGA Section, covering eastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey and Delaware, is one of 41 geographical managing entities of the PGA of America. This Section manages nearly 900 PGA of America Members and Associates who are employed at over 300 golf facilities in our region.
Contact: Matt Frey, PGA, Communications Director, mfrey@pgahq.com
