Former Golfer Chris DiMarco Donates Funds From PGA to UF
Friday, October 1, 2004 | Men's Golf
Former University of Florida men's golf standout and current Professional Golf Association professional, Chris DiMarco, has donated $100,000 to the University to use in the implementation of The Golf: For Business & Life Program the PGA of America announced. This donation comes on the heels of the 2004 Ryder Cup and is a portion of the $1.3 million that PGA Professionals have designated to 14 colleges and universities across the country.
DiMarco, a three-time All-American and the 1989 Southeastern Conference individual champion, is the 10th Gator golfer to participate in Ryder Cup play and still holds the UF record of five tournament wins in a season. Having finished his Florida career with seven tournament wins, DiMarco ranks second in victories and fourth in career stroke average since the 1981-82 season. The Altamonte Springs, Fla., native lettered for the Gators from 1986-90.
Florida was DiMarco's choice to receive the funds to grow and develop The Golf: For Business & Life Program at the University. The program will offer Gator juniors, seniors and graduate students the opportunity to learn the basics of the golf swing, etiquette and how to use golf as a business tool, regardless of their chosen careers. The classes are under the direction of PGA Professionals, as well as business leaders who share their experiences of how golf has enhanced their business.
"These players make the Ryder Cup one of the most exciting events in sports," said PGA of America President M.G. Orender. "In addition to competing for their country, the players are also able to make a difference by giving back to charities in various communities and supporting the growth of the game through Golf: For Business & Life."
Since Golf: For Business & Life was established in 1999, The PGA of America has contributed $4.5 million to this national program, which has expanded into 52 universities nationwide reaching more than 14,000 students. The program is run by The PGA of America as part of its national growth of the game campaign called "Play Golf America."
The PGA of America, founded in 1916, is a not-for-profit organization that promotes the game of golf while continuing to enhance the standards of the profession. The Association is comprised of more than 28,000 men and women PGA Professionals who are dedicated to growing participation in the game of golf.
-UF-
