PGA HOPE Spotlight: Sergio Avendaño
“Those that want to accomplish something, find a way; those that don’t, find an excuse.”
PGA HOPE Ambassador Sergio Avendaño has a deep passion for making golf accessible and inclusive for everyone. Through his role as a PGA HOPE Ambassador, Sergio plays a key role in introducing Veterans to the therapeutic benefits of golf, offering them hope and fostering a deep sense of camaraderie.
Sergio’s golf journey began in high school when his girlfriend’s brother introduced him to the sport. Despite initial struggles, he was captivated by the feeling of hitting a perfect shot. Over the years, he played various sports, but it was retirement and the COVID-19 pandemic that pushed him to focus on golf as his primary means of staying active and competitive.
“It wasn’t until I retired that my body wouldn’t allow me to continue playing all those other sports,” recalls Sergio, retired US Air Force electrician. “COVID really thrust me into golf as my only option to stay active and compete in something, even if I was only competing against myself.”
Sergio's journey into golf began with his retirement, but it is also what led to his eventual involvement with PGA HOPE. Initially, he sought out PGA HOPE to improve his game, as he was playing more frequently but not very well. Through the HOPE sessions, Sergio honed his skills and gained a deeper understanding of the sport. His volunteer efforts further enhanced his experience, transforming golf from a hobby into a profound source of peace and joy. PGA HOPE evolved from a personal quest for improvement into a cornerstone of happiness in his life.
Sergio’s passion for PGA HOPE along with his drive to volunteer and become more involved led to his selection as an Ambassador for PGA HOPE Southern Texas. Being a PGA HOPE Ambassador has provided Sergio with a renewed sense of service and purpose. The community of Veterans within the program has brought him unexpected joy. He finds great fulfillment in hearing from Veterans who credit HOPE with encouraging them to become active and reengage with life.
“Not long ago a Veteran in the program pulled me aside and thanked me for HOPE,” reminisces Sergio. “He said that he had not left his home in many months and that he was in a dark space. Golf and PGA HOPE gave him a purpose and something to look forward to. He is taking small steps and trying to heal. The programs that we are sharing with our Veterans truly matter and that is impactful.”
Sergio hopes to continue serving his community, especially Veterans, by demonstrating that golf is inclusive and accessible to all, regardless of physical limitations. For those out there looking to get involved with PGA HOPE, Sergio says the following, “Jump all the way in. The only cost to the Veteran is a little of your time. The lessons are 100% free and are for complete beginners to experienced players looking to build camaraderie. PGA HOPE can really change and save lives if you let it!
To learn more about PGA HOPE Southern Texas, Click Here.
