Innovation, gratitude, and community impact took the stage at Windstone Golf Club from August 31 to September 1, 2026, as PGA Professionals Jeff Craig and Lamar Mills launched the Inaugural Valor Cup. Designed to honor the extraordinary sacrifices made by military veterans and local first responders, the inaugural match-play event showcased fierce competition, unmatched camaraderie, and the transformative power of golf.

Inspired by a similar concept executed during the Ryder Cup, Craig and Mills recognized a unique opportunity to expand local programming within the Section. Having led PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) initiatives together since the Fall of 2022, they envisioned an event that would bridge two selfless communities.

“The Valor Cup was created out of a continuous drive to create meaningful, impactful experiences”, said Craig. “We chose the name to highlight the distinct connection and shared dedication between our local first responders and military veterans. Walking into the first year, you never know quite what to expect, but the outcome was far beyond anything we could have imagined”.

To lead the way, the PGA Professionals selected two captains who were natural fits for the role: Paul Mason, a local firefighter representing Team First Responders, and Daniel Ferrere, PGA HOPE Ambassador leading Team Veterans. Both leaders brought deep personal commitment to their teams. Mason, who owns 423customs, crafted custom personalized ball markers for every participant in the field. Ferrere carefully curated the Veterans’ roster to ensure representation from every PGA HOPE Chattanooga graduating class since the program began in 2022 up through the most recent session.

“Being asked to serve as the inaugural captain was an incredible honor and a deep responsibility”, said Mason. “I was tasked with bringing together 24 first responders who embodied what the Valor Cup truly stands for: camaraderie, respect, and selfless service. Watching our team come together; competing, laughing, and standing shoulder to shoulder in appreciation of our veterans made every moment worthwhile. This event was about so much more than golf; it was about brotherhood, shared service, and mutual respect, and I’m already looking forward to the next one”. 

“Serving as captain for the inaugural event was a true honor”, said Ferrere. “I intentionally built our roster so every PGA HOPE class year was fairly represented, even matching players by military branch for the final afternoon. Although we didn’t win on the scoreboard, we won in the smiles, positive interactions, and relationships built across the entire group”. 

The two 24-player rosters featured remarkable participants, including the Fire Chief of Chattanooga competing on Team First Responders. Competitors tackled four distinct 9-hole match play formats over the two days, beginning Monday morning with a solemn Presentation of Colors. Competitors were outfitted in custom apparel provided by Flag & Anthem, with local partner Vector Security supporting the event as a key sponsor, providing participant lunches and golf balls.

While Team First Responders ultimately captured the victory after two tightly contested days, the true highlight of the event was the sheer enthusiasm and mutual respect shared across the course. For many participants, this was their first time competing in a structured golf tournament.

“The level of respect, smiles, and camaraderie was truly unmatched”, noted Mills. “Even while competing head-to-head, players from both teams were cheering each other on. Many of these players had never met prior to teeing off on Monday, yet the sportsmanship and shared bond were evident on every hole. It was an incredible way to honor both the sacrifices our PGA HOPE Veterans have made for our country and the sacrifices our First Responders make in our communities every day”.

That sentiment resonated deeply with the players on the course.

“I would say we enjoyed meeting these First Responders who serve our communities in so many different ways”, shared Randy Dennis from Team Veteran. “Although we came up short on the scoreboard, a lot of respect was shown for both men and women on these teams and for our country”. 

For fellow Team Veteran Liz Marcotte, stepping onto the tee brought a newfound confidence.

“I’m so glad I was invited to play in the tournament. I don’t know when I would have felt like I was ‘ready.’ It pushed me out of my comfort zone, but showed me how much fun it was”, Marcotte reflected. “It wasn’t about winning or losing, but the camaraderie. I’m looking forward to my next tournament!”

That shared bond peaked once again during lunch, creating a moment that cemented the event’s significance for organizers and participants alike.

“We were all gathered between matches when Daniel Ferrere stood up”, Craig recalled. “He personally thanked Lamar and I for putting the tournament together, sharing just how profound of an impact the event had made on him and everyone in that room. When he finished speaking, the entire room rose to their feet in a standing ovation. Moments like that remind you why we do this”.

The growth of the event mirrors the explosive expansion of PGA HOPE in the area. When Mills, who earned his PGA HOPE certification in 2020 and Craig launched their first class in the Fall of 2022, they welcomed 11 graduates. Today, their Fall 2026 PGA HOPE class has grown to 36 participating veterans.

“Being involved with PGA HOPE and working alongside these veterans and first responders has truly changed our lives”, said Mills. “Their strength and enthusiasm inspire us every day. This was only year one, but the Valor Cup is officially here to stay, and we look forward to expanding these opportunities for years to come”.