Golf has been a significant part of my life for as long as I can remember. Growing up in Ottawa, Illinois, near Starved Rock, weekends were often spent on the golf course with my dad. This created memories and a shared passion that continues to bring us together today.
At 9 years old, my life changed dramatically when I was diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis, a neurological condition that affects the spinal cord and left me using a wheelchair permanently. While that experience altered my path, it also opened doors I never could have imagined. Looking back, I would not change my journey. What began as a life-changing diagnosis ultimately led me to opportunities in adaptive sports, higher education and competitive golf that have shaped who I am today.
The first sport I became introduced to after my injury was wheelchair basketball. I was fortunate to be selected twice in high school for a U25 team that competed internationally. Following high school, I attended the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Sport and Tourism while competing for one of the nation’s premier wheelchair basketball programs. The commitment required was substantial, with practices running from 6-8:30 a.m., strength training three times a week, team meetings twice weekly and approximately 30 games each season. After completing my undergraduate degree, I returned to the University of Illinois on scholarship and earned a Master of Science in Management.
Alongside basketball, my passion for golf continued to grow. I am honored to have competed in the last four U.S. Adaptive Opens. The USGA has elevated adaptive golf by creating a championship experience that treats competitors like professionals. One memory that still stands out was arriving at the range and seeing Titleist Pro V1 golf balls available for players, a small detail that demonstrated the level of respect and professionalism the event provides.
As adaptive golf has expanded nationally, the CDGA has also made a tremendous impact through the Chicago Adaptive Open presented by Illinois Bone & Joint Institute. What began at Cog Hill has since found a home at Fox Bend Golf Course in Oswego, where the event continues to grow each year. I have witnessed that growth firsthand. During the inaugural event, I was grateful simply to have my registration covered. Today, the championship features a $30,000 purse, with athletes from various Sports Classifications competing for prize money. In the adaptive sports world, performance-based prize opportunities remain relatively rare, making this a meaningful step forward for many athletes and for the future of adaptive golf.
My connection with the CDGA eventually came full circle. Through a golf outing, Keith Wallace of the Lincolnway Special Recreation Association met my current supervisor, Kayla Fahrenbach, which led to a phone call and ultimately an internship opportunity that began in April. Today, I assist with the CDGA’s Sunshine Through Golf Camp Program, which introduces individuals with cognitive disabilities to the game. I also support the organization’s tournaments and events, including the recent Chicago Adaptive Open held June 13-14.
As part of this internship, I was selected as a USGA P.J. Boatwright Intern, providing me with the opportunity to visit USGA headquarters and gain firsthand experience in tournament operations. From course setup and tee marker placement to developing corporate partnerships and learning from USGA CEO Mike Whan about his leadership journey in golf, the experience has given me valuable insight into the many components of golf administration.
Golf has provided me with far more than competition. It has connected me with lifelong friendships, educational opportunities, career development and a community that continues to push adaptive sports forward. I am grateful for the people and organizations that have supported me along the way, and I look forward to helping create even more opportunities for future generations of adaptive golfers.
Thomas Duffy is a USGA P.J. Boatwright Intern with the CDGA. He began with the Association in April of this year.