5/4/2026 - From Combat to Competition: Military Stories Inside the Golfweek Amateur Tour

 

 

 

 

 

In this powerful episode of the Golfweek Amateur Tour - The Podcast, Tim Newman and Chris Rocha take a step beyond the leaderboard to honor Military Appreciation Month and the incredible stories behind the players in the Golfweek Amateur Tour.

 

This isn’t just about the Golfweek Amateur Tour Golf. This is about service, sacrifice, camaraderie, and how the Golfweek Amateur Tour community becomes a second family for those who have served.

 

As always, this is where Amateurs Play Like Pros.

 

Episode Highlights

  • Why May is one of the most meaningful months on the podcast
  • The connection between military service and Golfweek Amateur Tour Competition
  • How the Golfweek Amateur Tour creates lifelong friendships through Competitive Golf Events
  • The importance of recognizing veterans both on and off the course

 

Guest Spotlight: Ricardo Almeida Jr. (El Paso / Las Cruces Tour)

  • 20-year U.S. Marine veteran
  • 2025 National Championship winner (C-Flight)
  • One of the most consistent competitors in Amateur golf tournaments

 

Ricardo shares:

  • His journey through 20 years in the Marines, including deployments and life on an aircraft carrier
  • How he discovered golf while stationed in Hawaii and quickly fell in love with the game
  • Why the camaraderie of the Golfweek Amateur Tour reminds him of his time in the military
  • What it means to compete, and win, at the National Championship level

 

Guest Spotlight: Jason Sprinkle (Alabama Tour)

  • 24 years of military service (Active Duty + National Guard)
  • Military Police background with global experience
  • Competitive player in the Alabama Golfweek Amateur Tour

 

Jason talks about:

  • Discovering golf during his time stationed in Germany
  • Competing in international tournaments early in his golf journey
  • The importance of family support during and after military service
  • Why the Golfweek Amateur Tour stands out among all Amateur Golf Competition experiences

 

What Makes This Episode Different

This episode highlights the heart of Golfweek Amateur Tour, the people.

From aircraft carriers to championship leaderboards, these stories show how Golfweek Amateur Tour golf tournaments bring together players from all walks of life into one connected golf community.

 

In Memoriam

Tim and Chris also take a moment to honor past guest Gaines Beard, reflecting on his impact on the game and the lasting impression he left on the podcast and the golf community.

 

Closing Thoughts

Whether you're competing for a National Championship or just getting started in the Golfweek Amateur Tour, this episode is a reminder of what makes the Golfweek Amateur Tour special.

 

Competition is part of it.

But the people, that’s what keeps you coming back.

 

Ready to compete in Golfweek Amateur Tour tournaments?

Visit:
amateurgolftour.net
senioramateurgolftour.net

Join a tour. Meet your community. Play where Amateurs Play Like Pros.

 

Subscribe, share, and leave a review, because the golf community grows one story at a time.  

 

ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:  

Win a set of ZX7 MK2 Srixon irons (4-PW) and support the podcast!  

Just $10 per entry – details in the show notes and on social. Venmo - @TimNATC (note it as Srixon Irons Podcast)

 

For a fitting DM Ken on Instagram @KRohlman74

If you have questions, send them to us at:
Tim - TimNATC@amateurgolftour.net
Chris - elpaso@amateurgolftour.net

 

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Posted: 5/4/2026 2:36:25 PM