The PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) Program is the flagship military outreach initiative of the PGA of America, dedicated to providing golf instruction and a supportive community for military veterans. Each year, PGA HOPE teams from across the country compete in the PGA HOPE Secretary’s Cup, an event that celebrates the healing power of golf and honors veterans’ service.
This year, the Northern Ohio PGA Section is proud to announce its team for the 2025 PGA HOPE Secretary’s Cup, taking place on May 12th at Carmel Country Club in Charlotte, North Carolina.
This prestigious event, in conjunction with the PGA Championship, is named in recognition of the Memorandum of Understanding between the PGA of America REACH Foundation and the Department of Veterans Affairs. The Secretary’s Cup, which began in 2016, provides a unique opportunity for veterans and PGA Professionals to come together in celebration of their shared commitment to service, community, and camaraderie.
The Northern Ohio PGA team will consist of the following veterans and their PGA Professional:
Paul Heaverly – U.S. Army
Trip Heaverly – U.S. Army
Jennifer Baun – U.S. Navy
Jason Strejcek – U.S. Navy
Barry Friedman – PGA Master Professional, Director of Golf at Valley of the Eagles Golf Club (Team Captain)
The five-person scramble event will showcase not only the golf skills of these veterans but also the personal growth, camaraderie, and lifelong bonds fostered through PGA HOPE. The Northern Ohio PGA team is thrilled to compete in this historic event, marking the first time the Section has earned a bid to the Secretary’s Cup.
“I am deeply honored to lead this team at the Secretary’s Cup,” said Barry Friedman, PGA Professional and Team Captain. “Representing Northern Ohio on this national stage is not only a privilege but also a testament to the impact of PGA HOPE in bringing veterans together through the game of golf. This will be a truly meaningful and unforgettable experience.”
MEET THE TEAM
Jennifer Baun, Navy
Military Branch: United States Navy
Rank & Specialty: Ocean System Technician Analyst Second Class Petty Officer (E-5) (1985-1991)
PGA HOPE Program: Mill Creek Golf Course
PGA HOPE Lead Professional: Stacie Butler
Hometown: Boardman, Ohio
And then some: Jennifer Baun, a dedicated veteran of the United States Navy, served as an Ocean System Technician Analyst Second Class Petty Officer (E-5) during the Cold War. Her military service laid the foundation for her ongoing advocacy work in the veteran community, which earned her induction into the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame in 2015. She has remained active in veteran service organizations and currently serves those organizations in various capacities.
Jennifer discovered the PGA HOPE program at Mill Creek Golf Course, where she was introduced to the game under the guidance of PGA professional Stacie Butler. Through Stacie’s mentorship, Jennifer built the confidence and skills to continue her golfing journey. Her experience in the PGA HOPE Cup marked a pivotal moment in her life, allowing her to develop not only as a golfer but also as a person, finding new purpose and camaraderie with fellow veterans.
Now, as a representative in the Secretary’s Cup, Jennifer is proud to showcase the power of golf to bring veterans together. She hopes her participation will inspire others to explore the program and experience the healing benefits of golf, both physically and mentally.
Jason Strejcek, Navy
Military Branch: United States Navy
Rank & Specialty: Petty Officer Second Class, Combat Medic with Marines (2002-2010)
PGA HOPE Program: Washington Park
PGA HOPE Lead Professional: Steve Morgan
Hometown: Strongsville, Ohio
And then some: Before joining the military, Jason Strejcek was an active athlete, having played college baseball. After September 11th, he felt a deep calling to serve his country and put his sports career on hold. During his final deployment to Iraq, Jason was injured by an IED, which led to five shoulder surgeries and ultimately ended his military career.
With his injury limiting his participation in many sports, Jason discovered golf five years ago. Walking the course became an escape, offering him relief from his PTSD by giving his mind a break from the painful memories of Iraq and the friends he lost.
Jason joined the PGA HOPE program in March 2023 at Washington Park, starting with a 22 handicap and a swing speed of 92 mph. Under the guidance of Steve Morgan, he transformed his game in just six weeks. His handicap dropped to 12, his swing speed increased to 110 mph, and he began shooting consistently in the mid-to-low 80s. Jason’s hard work paid off when he shot his lowest round ever—a 73—last year. PGA HOPE has not only improved his golf game but has significantly contributed to his mental health and enjoyment of life.
Being selected for the PGA HOPE Secretary’s Cup is a proud moment for Jason, as it celebrates his journey and the profound impact that the program has had on him. He’s excited to represent Northern Ohio and share the benefits of PGA HOPE with others, emphasizing how the game of golf has become a tool for healing, personal growth, and connection.
Paul Heaverly, Army
Military Branch: US Army
Rank & Specialty: E-5/Sergeant, Medic (2006-2019)
PGA HOPE Program: Windmill Lakes Golf Club, Ravenna
PGA HOPE Lead Professional: Dan Dauk, PGA
Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio
And then some: Paul Heaverly, a US Army veteran, served as a medic from 2006 to 2019. After transitioning out of the military, Paul discovered the PGA HOPE program while searching for veteran golf leagues. He registered for a session at Windmill Lakes Golf Club and shared the opportunity with his brother, Trip, who also signed up. The PGA HOPE Cup experience was transformative for Paul, who was overwhelmed by the kindness and appreciation he received from the moment he arrived. He learned not only golf but life lessons—how the mental resilience required in golf helps him stay present in everyday life.
Through lessons with professionals like Dan Dauk, Ann Ciavarella, and Justin Long, Paul improved his swing and developed a deeper understanding of the game. Golf became a way to connect with others, nature, and himself, providing an escape from life’s stresses. Paul believes golf has saved his life, offering him peace and clarity in times of struggle. He encourages all veterans to sign up for PGA HOPE, urging them not to wait:
“Golf saved my life, and I’m serious when I say that. Whenever I’m in a low point or a dark moment I know that stepping onto a golf course will block out all of the outside noise and stress, if only for a couple hours. Golf connects you to those around you, yourself, and nature. Golf gets you outside and into fresh air. Golf lets you smell fresh cut grass and hear the wind rustle through the trees. Golf has been better than any medication or therapy I’ve been given. I owe my life and sanity to golf and the entire PGA HOPE program, and to any Veteran that is struggling I would tell them to sign up for the next available PGA HOPE program. Not tomorrow, not next week, not when they get a second. Sign up now. I promise you won’t regret it.”
Trip Heaverly, Army
Military Branch: US Army Infantry, 101st Airborne
Rank & Specialty: E5(p) (2002-2013)
PGA HOPE Program: Windmill Lakes Golf Club, Ravenna
PGA HOPE Lead Professional: Dan Dauk, PGA
Hometown: Wadsworth, Ohio
And then some: Trip Heaverly, a 12-year Army Infantry veteran with the 101st Airborne, is the brother of Paul Heaverly. Trip joined the PGA HOPE program at Windmill Lakes Golf Club alongside Paul, where they both learned from PGA professional Dan Dauk. Trip appreciated the simple yet effective tips, like the one Dan gave him to improve his driver, and found the experience of spending time on the course with fellow veterans eager to learn refreshing.
For Trip, golf provides a much-needed space to focus and unwind. As he put it, “It gives me space. Plus, I get to hit something hard without getting into trouble!” The program has been especially meaningful to him, even making him miss a buddy’s wedding and Mother’s Day so he could participate in the PGA HOPE experience. Playing alongside his brother was an important part of that, and Trip looks forward to hitting a 315-yard drive off the first tee in front of a large crowd!
PGA HOPE has given Trip more than just golf lessons—it’s also provided the chance to build lasting friendships and create a support network. He encourages other veterans to reach out and take the first step, saying, “No one knows you might be struggling. But you are not alone. Others have overcome similar troubles, and if you are willing to take the first step, someone will be there to help you along the way. Don’t suffer alone.”
MEET THE CAPTAIN
Barry Friedman, PGA
PGA Master Professional & Director of Golf at Valley of the Eagles Golf Club
PGA HOPE Involvement: Since 2021
PGA HOPE Classes Taught: 76 classes, 44 as Lead Instructor
Veterans Impacted: 180 veterans
And then some: Barry Friedman is a PGA Master Professional and the Director of Golf at Valley of the Eagles Golf Club. He has been deeply involved with PGA HOPE since 2021, teaching 76 classes and positively impacting 180 veterans. He has traveled nearly 1,900 miles to deliver sessions at eight facilities, ensuring veterans across the region have access to the program. Barry has also developed key initiatives, such as PGA HOPE Play Days, extended programs, and Mulligans for HOPE fundraising events.
Barry’s teaching philosophy is centered on empathy, creating an inclusive environment, and fostering camaraderie among veterans. As the team captain for the 2025 PGA HOPE Cup at Carmel Country Club, his goal is to unite the team through mutual respect and a focus on shared purpose. His extensive experience in event coordination ensures smooth logistics, clear communication, and a positive atmosphere for all involved.
For Barry, PGA HOPE is a powerful tool for helping veterans rebuild confidence, combat isolation, and experience personal growth. His participation in the 2025 PGA HOPE Cup is a testament to his dedication to the program and his commitment to honoring the service and resilience of veterans.
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