USAGA founder EQ Sylvester has passed away

Honoring the Legacy of Edmund "EQ" Sylvester

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Edmund "EQ" Sylvester, founder and chairman emeritus of the United States Adaptive Golf Alliance, on April 30, 2025, at age 86. EQ's unwavering commitment to making golf accessible for individuals with disabilities has left an indelible mark on the sport and the lives of countless athletes.

In 2012, EQ founded the Freedom Golf Association, which later evolved into the USAGA. Under his leadership, the organization grew into a national alliance of 37 member organizations (now 50+ organizations), providing adaptive golf opportunities to over 30,000 individuals nationwide, including many wounded veterans. His vision was to create a community where everyone, regardless of ability, could experience the joy and camaraderie of golf.

EQ's dedication to adaptive golf was recognized with numerous accolades, including the 2020 Henry Viscardi Achievement Award and the 2019 Player Development Award at the PGA Merchandise Show. He also served as a director of the Western Golf Association and was involved in several other prominent national golfing organizations. Despite being a triple amputee, EQ's resilience and passion for inclusion inspired all who knew him.

As we remember EQ, we celebrate a life dedicated to breaking barriers and fostering a more inclusive world. His spirit will forever be a guiding force for the USAGA and the adaptive golf community.

Here is one of the most recent interviews he did about the USAGA: