Our participants and partner organizations are best at explaining the importance of GFA’s mission. Here are a few, unsolicited responses we’ve received from participants, parents, volunteers, tour players, and our partners/sponsors about how GFA impacts their lives and the lives of loved ones.
“I’m humbled and honored to spend time with this incredible group of veterans who have selflessly dedicated their lives to serving our country. As a golfer, it’s especially gratifying to see how the game of golf has such a positive impact in their lives. I’m so thrilled to be a part of this special GOLF FOR ALL/CVS-Caremark clinic.”
—Annika Sorenstam, World Golf Hall of Fame
“Fred Corcoran, we can’t thank you enough! Your organization is top notch. We look forward to working with you in the future! It’s not every day that wounded warriors have the opportunity to receive such a total package of fun, care, and overall outstanding instruction in one day. And to have a genuine superstar like Annika Sorenstam not only teach us, but spend time just hanging out was a bonus that none of us will not soon forget.”
—MAJ Robert Kilmartin, Tampa VAVS Coordinator, Military Order of the Purple Heart
“That truly is one of the best gifts we can give our fellow warriors. Getting them out of the house, engaged in a fun sport, and participating with others who have endured the same difficulties in life was therapeutic! And to find something they can be good and excel at again! I know many others felt the same way I did. Your organization is truly a fantastic one as I was telling several people yesterday. I would love to help in any way that I can and love to tell more people about your organization. Let me know how I can help.
—Brent South, Military Order of the Purple Heart
Golf For All! I have never done anything like this before. I want to thank you for your support of the Vietnam Veterans. We were forgotten, but not by you. Thank you, thank you. I was in Vietnam in 1967 and 1968 with the marines. I am not asking for anything. I just want to say thank you for helping and supporting the Vietnam Vets. May the good Lord bless you now and forever. Once again, thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Semper Fi, Mike O’Hara
Dear Fred,
People call PTSD a hidden wound, but with my husband, Ken, his issues were clearly visible. He was unable to sit still. His concentration was minimal and he was impatient. As strange as it sounds, golf has provided him a vehicle to resolve some of these things and we both want to thank you and GOLF FOR ALL.
Although Ken was keeping appointments at the VA, it was when he was invited to learn to play golf that things finally came together. As you know, veterans are frequently most comfortable when they are together with other veterans. That was something that GOLF FOR ALL was able to make happen for him when he first began his lessons.
Learning to swing provided a place for him to put his pent-up energy. His discipline for a task placed before him has caused Ken to spend lots of time in our backyard practicing putting as well as his swing. While I can’t say that golf balls have done our perennial borders any good, the outlet has done wonders for my husband.
Another benefit that Ken has verbalized is that the physical environment is soothing. Golf courses are always idyllic environments but I think the lush, green spaces couldn’t be more different than the barren brown area where he served in Afghanistan. Also the open spaces are a comfort to anyone who has been in urban combat zone.
I think the most vital component is a tip that Ken heard from PGA Professional Bob Beach, after a few lessons. Observing Ken’s tense stance, Bob told Ken that you cannot play golf if you are tense. This important statement allowed him to see how he was living every moment of every day. That very day he began to consciously relaxes muscles and his attitude has followed.
Ken is enjoying the game. I’m enjoying having Ken returned to me. I’m grateful of course to the wonderful staff of the VA Hospital for all of their hard work. I’m eternally grateful to your program for showing him how to relax both mentally and physically.
Now, the golf bug has bitten me! Part of GOLF FOR ALL’s approach is to encourage spouses, family members and friends to participate in the healing process that golf provides. Bob Beach has me swinging and hitting the ball like a real golfer. I can now play with Ken and what a welcome enhancement this is to our marriage!!