The PGA Tour and United Airlines have partnered to support HBCU golf programs.

Over half a million dollars in travel credits will be awarded to 51 golf teams – $10,000 per program – to cover tournament travel and recruiting activities for over 250 student-athletes and coaches as part of the new initiative. The gift is part of the PGA Tour’s and United Airlines’ commitment to diversifying and growing the sport.

“Removing barriers for HBCU students to have the same opportunities as other collegiate athletes would allow numerous young Black golfers to realize their aspirations and HBCU golf programs to reach their full potential,” said United president Brett Hart. “United is committed to increasing inclusiveness and racial fairness in the communities we serve, and that begins with making substantial mentorship and scholarship investments in those communities.”

United is the first sponsor to support the Tour’s HBCU Grant Program, which was established last year to help HBCUs cope with financial challenges. HBCU golfers will have access to mentorship and career guidance from United staff in addition to the travel credits. In addition, there will be a digital series with influencer Roger Steele and select PGA Tour pros to promote HBCU golf.

“I’d want to convey my gratitude on behalf of the PGA Tour to longtime partner United Airlines for their support of HBCU golf programs and the numerous collegiate players who will benefit in the future,” said PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan. “We’ve committed to helping diversify the competitive golf environment, and this partnership between United Airlines and these colleges and universities will be a key step toward leveling the playing field and improving the student-athlete experience along the way.”

The grants, according to coaches and players, will allow their teams to go to additional competitions. The majority of them typically drive to competitions, which limits where they may compete and takes time away from school.”

The United Airlines grant will have a significant influence on our program’s ability to travel this year,” said Charles Penny II, head coach at Winston-Salem State, which returned to the NCAA this year after a 10-year absence. “It now permits our program to contemplate participating in more tournaments in the fall.” Due of financial constraints, we were only able to participate in one event this past fall. We’ll be able to add close to four in fall.”

“We are incredibly appreciative and pleased to have the help of United Airlines to make for good and safe travel to our competitions,” said Christyn Carr, a golfer at North Carolina A&T. It allows us to compete in states where we previously were unable to compete, and it allows us to spend more time on the course than on the road. This semester, not just in our game but also in our travel, I’m looking forward to achieving new heights.”