CHICAGO, IL. (February 3, 2015) – Freedom Golf Association (FGA), an organization founded in 2012 with a primary goal of advancing the delivery of grass roots golf instruction to those with special needs, will be a presenting sponsor at the Tinley Park Golf Expo, February 6 – 8.
The golf expo is being held at the Tinley Park Convention Center off I-80 at the Harlem Avenue exit. In addition to FGA having a booth at the expo, FGA will also provide FREE 10-minute golf lessons to special need patrons attending the expo. Adults and children with special needs, and wounded veterans are welcome to come to the hitting/demo area for instruction.
Being a involved sponsor with a great golf show like Tinley Park is part of FGA’s mission to make golf, anyone’s game. Andy Mears, Director of Golf Operations for FGA, says, “A major goal of FGA is to take special need golfers from the practice tee to the first tee. However, we know some participants might not be able to, therefore, we strives to enhance the lives of people within the special needs community through the social and therapeutic benefits of golf.”
According to the National Alliance for Accessible Golf, there are 5.7 million people with special needs currently playing golf and 18 million disabled individuals who would like to play golf, but for various reasons either have quit trying or don’t know where to get started. “The biggest challenges are simply learning to swing and play, then gain access to golf courses. The Tinley Park Golf Expo is a great way to meet and greet these golfers and to educate the golf community about inclusion.” Says Mears, a PGA member.
EQ Sylvester, Founder and Chairman of FGA states, “Through FGA’s involvement in this golf expo, we can provide a consistent approach to helping deserving people enjoy the great game of golf as much as any able-bodied golfer does.” It’s all about encouraging special needs individuals and providing them with a welcoming atmosphere.” Sylvester added.
Freedom Golf Association vision is to make golf more inclusive to the special needs community by collaborating and coordinating with qualified golf professionals, skilled amateurs, health care professionals and local organizations. As EQ Sylvester, FGA Chairman states, “Golf is anyone’s game, and together, we can increase the opportunity to bring joy and a sense of freedom to the special needs community through golf.”
Freedom Golf Association was founded in July 2012 by Edmund Q. Sylvester. He is a Director of the Western Golf Association and a golf enthusiast. Sylvester became a triple amputee in 2011. Soon after leaving the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, he attempted to hit golf balls at a local range. Without assistance, his attempt was not successful and it became the first step towards forming FGA.
For more information about Freedom Golf Association, go to www.fgagolf.org.
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