Joe Annotti, a resident of Ponte Vedra Beach, recently started an athletic and leisurewear apparel brand called Skull & Bogeys Golf Company. Annotti has battled with addiction and knows what it’s like to feel hopeless.
“This business became a way to transform my past pain into a present mission and future opportunities to support the addiction recovery community,” he said.
Skull & Bogeys has everything from golf polos to yoga pants featuring various pirate-themed designs.
“We have high-quality manufacturing partners like Under Armour and adidas and use performance fabrics that integrate anti-odor and mobility technologies,” Annotti said.
When Annotti hit 500 days of sobriety, he knew he wanted to give back to some of the same organizations that had helped him.
“I wanted to build a sustainable business that fed itself through its acts of charity – something that wasn't just about profit, but about purpose,” he said. “We committed to donating 25% of our profits to our addiction recovery partner, NamaStay Sober, who aids those in recovery by reconnecting their bodies and minds through affordable yoga, fitness, meditation and wellness-focused community events.”
Annotti started playing golf at a young age and in many ways the game helped him through his addiction recovery journey.
“Golf is such an incredible test of presence – the ability to continue moving forward and focus on the shot in front of you,” he said. “There are so many parallels between golf and addiction recovery, so I’ve enjoyed working through that.”
Annotti has big plans for Skull & Bogeys’ future.
“We are working with our local communities to participate in farmer’s markets, charity golf tournaments, and we will even be sponsoring a Jax Beach softball team,” he said.
Annotti is passionate about helping others who are struggling with addiction, and he hopes his story can be one of hope.
“Resilience isn’t about avoiding failure; it’s about getting back up after you've been knocked down,” he said.
To shop Skull & Bogeys Golf Company and read more about their story go to skullandbogeys.myshopify.com.
