BEDMINSTER, N.J. – The New Jersey Golf Foundation, the (501c3) charitable arm of the New Jersey Section, PGA of America, has announced the debut of the New Jersey Heroes Tour offering competitive golf opportunities for active military, Veterans and first responders including firefighters, law enforcement, paramedics & EMTs.
The 2025 New Jersey Heroes Tour features a full schedule of tournaments at public, private and municipal courses across the state, with the kickoff event slated for April 14 at Royce Brook GC in Hillsborough.
A few team events (2 and 4 player scrambles) will be incorporated into the tournament schedule, which includes more than 20 events and a season long points race. The final event of the season will take place at Galloway National GC on Nov. 12. The tour is open to golfers of all skill levels, as each respective tournament will feature a gross and net division. Registration is now open at www.njheroestour.com.
Proceeds from the Tour will support NJGF programming, highlighted by PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere), a rehabilitative golf program for Veterans and Active-duty Military that enhances their physical, mental, social and emotional well-being.
Led by more than 80 PGA of America Golf Professionals who have received specialized training in using adaptive equipment and instructing Veterans, PGA HOPE, through instructional golf clinics and on-course golfing opportunities, is now available in all 15 NJPGA serving counties positively impacting 500+ Veterans across the state annually.
“Golf is a therapeutic part of the rehabilitation process for many Veterans, and I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact of the PGA HOPE program, it’s truly saving lives,” said Chris Hunt, Executive Director, NJGF. “The New Jersey Heroes Tour is the next step for many Veterans on their golfing journey, and I’m thrilled we’re launching a new event series to accommodate Americas heroes alongside first responders that help keep our communities safe.”
The NJGF was created in 2004 to positively impact lives and communities through the game of golf, with a focus on 3 core pillars: youth, military, and special needs. Under the guidance of PGA of America Golf Professionals, a line-up of programming is designed to provide individuals from all backgrounds with an opportunity to experience the game of golf in a welcoming environment.
“Thanks to PGA HOPE I’m now able to explore new ways to improve my health and wellness,” said Chris Solivan, US Marine Corps Veteran and New Jersey PGA HOPE Ambassador. “The Heroes Tour will allow me to enjoy my newfound passion for golf with an amazing group of friends and other Veterans.”
The New Jersey State Golf Association (NJ Golf) will provide all Veterans and first responders with a complimentary USGA handicap index to participate in the New Jersey Heroes Tour in 2025.
Membership is $75 and tournament fees will apply, with a range of $85-$150, based on facility. The NJGF will offer opportunities for financial assistance to military Veterans based on demonstrated need. Financial aid applications are available on the tour website, and all applicant information and requests will be kept confidential.
Founding Partners for the first-ever New Jersey Heroes Tour include Snow Partners; Braven Health, an affiliate of Horizon BCBSNJ; Elite Fundraising Solutions; Golf Max and RWJBarnabas Health.
For the full season schedule and more information on the New Jersey Heroes Touroperated by the New Jersey Golf Foundation, please visit www.njheroestour.com.