United States Ryder Cup Captain Steve Stricker, his five Vice Captains and the 12-member U.S. Team have finalized their $2.85 million commitment to the 43rd Ryder Cup Outreach Program, which will go to designated charities and youth-golf development programs across the country.
Since 1999, and now spanning 11 Ryder Cups, the outreach program has contributed over $28.6 million to more than 200 charitable organizations.
All members of the 43rd U.S. Team, along with Stricker, designated $100,000 each to the charity or charities of their choice. Another $100,000 is directed to support youth-golf development programs designed to introduce children to golf, provide unique approaches to play the game, and deliver world-class coaching and mentoring to juniors who may not otherwise have the financial means.
The five U.S. Vice Captains – Fred Couples, Jim Furyk, Zach Johnson, Davis Love III and Phil Mickelson – each designated $25,000 to the charity or charities of their choice, and another $25,000 to support youth-golf development programs.
“The PGA of America is delighted to work with the U.S. Ryder Cup Team to continue our longstanding tradition of providing significant financial support to several deserving charities, foundations and golf development programs,” said PGA President Jim Richerson. “Over the past 22 years, the Ryder Cup Outreach Program has touched countless lives while contributing millions of dollars to worthy causes aligned with each team member, making a difference in communities across America.”
The youth golf development programs that will benefit directly from the 43rd Ryder Cup Outreach Program are:
PGA Jr. League
PGA REACH’s flagship youth pillar program, PGA Jr. League is a fun, social and inclusive opportunity for boys and girls to learn and enjoy the game of golf under the direction of PGA and LPGA Professionals. As in other
recreational league sports, participants wear numbered jerseys and play on teams with their friends. At the end of the regular season, all-star teams are formed to compete in the National Car Rental PGA Jr. League Postseason. There are PGA Jr. League teams in all 41 PGA Sections and all 50 states.
Drive, Chip & Putt Championship
A free, nationwide junior skills competition for boys and girls, ages 7-15, supported by The Masters Tournament Foundation, PGA of America and the United States Golf Association.
KPMG Future Leaders Program
Affords top female high school seniors across the country the opportunity to enhance their personal growth through college scholarships, a leadership development retreat at Stanford University, a mentoring relationship with a woman business leader and an introduction to golf.
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