Each year, the Journey Award is presented at the PGA HOPE Secretary’s Cup to a team that embodies the true meaning of the word journey—a recognition of heart, growth, and full-on commitment to the PGA HOPE mission.
This year, that honor went to none other than Team Michigan.
The Michigan PGA Section earned recognition for their leadership, compassion, and full-hearted commitment to both their Veterans and the mission of PGA HOPE.
“We are deeply grateful to be honored with this award—humbled by the recognition and moved by the journey it represents. To stand alongside so many incredible individuals who share in this mission is both inspiring and profoundly meaningful. This award is a reflection of the strength and spirit of our Veterans, and of the powerful impact PGA HOPE continues to have on all of us.”
Madison Maurier
Player Development Coordinator & PGA REACH Michigan Activities Director
Michigan Veterans Tee Up for a Major Experience at the PGA HOPE Secretary’s Cup
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – Last weekend, four Michigan Veterans—Patrick Shannon, Rick Holbrook, Ruben Rodea, and Chuck Bootz—joined forces with their coach, Michigan PGA Professional Doug Temple, to compete in the 2025 PGA HOPE Secretary’s Cup at Carmel Country Club. As part of PGA Championship week, the Secretary’s Cup gives Veterans the chance to shine during one of the most prestigious weeks in professional golf.
Representing the Michigan PGA Section, this group of Veterans proudly competed under the unifying team theme: “Beyond the Battlefield.”
“Beyond the Battlefield” symbolizes the transformative journey Veterans take as they move from military service into civilian life—a path often filled with both visible and invisible challenges. This theme is a testament to the strength, resilience, and reinvention that define our Veterans, underscoring that their identity extends far beyond their time in uniform. It’s about healing, hope, and stepping into a future full of new opportunities—including the game of golf.
It also pays tribute to the PGA Professionals, like Doug Temple, who stand beside these Veterans as mentors and allies. PGA HOPE isn’t just about learning golf—it’s about regaining confidence, forming lasting connections, and finding joy through sport.
A Memorable Weekend in Charlotte
Team Michigan arrived in Charlotte on Saturday, May 10, where they received their swag bags and kicked things off with a welcome dinner featuring backyard games and a closest-to-the-pin contest.
On Sunday, May 11, the team fit in a practice round before heading to the Taste of Charlotte welcome dinner at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. There, Veterans and PGA Professionals were officially welcomed by PGA of America Officers and PGA REACH staff. The evening included NASCAR race simulations, a pit stop challenge, and a tour through racing history.
Game Day: May 12
The competition began with an unforgettable start: a police escort to Carmel Country Club from the Charlotte Metro Police Department, a stirring performance by the 208th Army Band featuring the official song of each military branch, the presentation of the colors by UNC Charlotte’s Air Force ROTC, and the National Anthem sung by country artist Blane Howard.
The team made their entrance to the classic Michigan anthem “Hollywood Nights” by Bob Seger and were proudly announced by PGA Professional and Co-Chair of the PGA HOPE Committee, Brian Jones. Despite a near-constant downpour, Team Michigan delivered a strong performance, finishing T10 at +2 over par in the rain-soaked 9-hole competition.
While the leaderboard tells one story, the true victory lies in the connections made, the confidence built, and the message carried forward—that there is so much life to live beyond the battlefield.