Author: mhart

First Tee launches new PSA honoring youth coaches as ’Game Changers’ in kids’ lives

Debuting during First Tee Week, the national “Dear Coach” PSA underscores the lifelong impact of youth sports coaches and calls on communities to celebrate their role in shaping the next generation.

Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. (May 21, 2025) – As part of its inaugural First Tee Week celebration, leading youth development organization First Tee has announced a powerful new public service campaign titled “Dear Coach.” The campaign honors the thousands of First Tee coaches across the country who use the game of golf to help kids and teens build character, confidence and resilience. 

Airing nationwide on digital and social platforms, the PSA features heartfelt messages from kids that showcase the deep and lasting impact of coaches, who are often described by parents as the “unsung heroes” of youth development. Additionally, First Tee participants and alumni will be sharing their personal stories through social media and First Tee’s website.  

“A great coach does not just teach the game of golf but also the incredible life lessons and values that are inherent to the sport, including believing in yourself, acting with integrity, building resilience and playing with sportsmanship,” said Jane Fader, senior vice president of marketing and communications at First Tee. “This PSA reflects the gratitude we hear every day from kids, parents and alumni about the coaches who helped them believe in themselves.” 

Shot with real participants and coaches from First Tee – Metropolitan New York, the PSA is a centerpiece of First Tee Week, a national awareness campaign running May 19–25, designed to celebrate First Tee coaches and inspire communities to get involved in youth character development through sports. 

In addition to the PSA, First Tee Week includes: 

  • Community activations and coach appreciation events at First Tee chapters across the country 
  • An alumni event at the PGA TOUR’s Charles Schwab Challenge, featuring a panel discussion on the impact of coaches 
  • Corporate partner engagement, spreading awareness across leading sports and media platforms 

First Tee coaches undergo a robust training program grounded in positive youth development research and now serve kids at 150 chapters across the globe. 

Perspectives: JUST a coach 

During First Tee Week, we celebrate the coaches who make First Tee a safe and special place for kids to learn golf and life skills.  

As vice president of programs, Ryan Graff meets First Tee coaches from across the globe. He knows they’re the beating heart of First Tee but finds they don’t always take credit for their incredible impact.  

According to research from First Tee and The Harris Poll, parents believe coaches can impact their child’s ability to work well with others (89%), respect others (89%) and show resilience in the face of challenges (88%). 

Ryan shared his perspective on the power of coaches after attending a coach training in Denver: 

As I travel and meet with the amazing people who volunteer and work at First Tee chapters, our conversation leads to me asking, “So what do you do at your chapter?” A common response is, “Oh I am just a coach.”  While I rarely correct people on the role they serve – because what do I know? – in these cases, I have to respond with, “You are not JUST a coach … you are a COACH.” 

So many thoughts fire off in my brain: Do you know the power you have in the lives of participants?  Do you understand the impact of your engagement and interactions with these kids and teens?  Do you realize they are watching and listening to how you carry yourself? 

When observing a First Tee class, it may look like play, fun and learning a lifelong sport. But there is serious work going on underneath the game.  

  • There are decisions being made on which club to select or shot to play (using good judgment) 
  • Participants are selecting targets (pursuing goals) 
  • They’re learning to navigate obstacles on the course (growing through challenge) 
  • They’re having moments of success and connecting their actions to outcomes (building positive self-identity) 
  • They’re learning how to cooperate and show respect to others in their class (collaborating with others) 

At best, a golfer left to their own devices has a 50/50 chance for these skills to transfer and apply to their life off the course. But with a trained coach guiding them through the process, this will increase those odds to 80% or higher. While I am not a gambling man, I like those odds.  

The word “coach” is derived from an old English term for a horse-drawn carriage. Coaches took important people where they wanted to go. It’s no different today; kids and teens are important people and coaches assist them to get where they want to go in life.   

I get it: As coaches, we often do not see the fruits of our labor. Sometimes, we never know the impact we had. But you are not JUST a coach; you are playing a critical role in the development of a human being – the development of their character, their moral compass, and assisting to shape their values.   

Coaches are role models, and the actions they display imprint and affect how kids and teens show up in this world, carry themselves, and interact with others.   

So, let’s drop the JUST. Being a coach is the highest honor and position one can have in the life of a kid or teen. Coaches leave lasting lessons and shape the character of participants lives, long into the future. If you are a coach, be proud and know you are making an impact on your participants.  Future generations depend on you!   

Interested in getting involved? 

You don’t have to be a great golfer to become an impactful First Tee coach. We train all of our coaches to deliver our proven curriculum.  

Find a chapter near you. 

Parents continue to believe investing in youth sports will pay dividends, new study shows

More than nine in 10 parents with adult children aged 18-35 say they’ve seen how youth sports can shape a child’s future

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. (May 8, 2025) – Despite an unsteady economy, nearly nine in 10 American parents say they are making room in the budget for extracurricular activities (88%), including sports. Nine in 10 parents say playing sports helps children build character (92%) and teaches them important life skills (90%), according to new research from The Harris Poll and First Tee.

The global consulting and market research firm teamed up with the nonprofit youth development organization to explore the value parents place on youth sports, with a particular focus on the long-term impact of coaches. The Harris Poll surveyed 2,042 U.S. adults in March 2025 and analyzed the data by gender, age, race, education and income, among other characteristics.

While few young athletes ultimately turn professional, parents believe youth sports can have lifelong benefits off the field. Nearly nine in 10 parents strongly recommend youth sports to other parents, believing that coaches can impact a child’s ability to work well with others (89%), respect others (89%) and be resilient in the face of challenges (88%).

“According to this new research, parents with adult children say the confidence their child built through sports continues to shape their success today, a data point that reinforces First Tee’s mission of teaching not only golf skills but also life skills and values that equip kids to face new challenges,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “While we have heard success stories from countless First Tee alumni, we are grateful to Harris Poll for helping us quantify the incredible impact of extracurricular activities.”

Generations of Americans have been shaped by youth sports, with nearly 70% of parents who grew up with coaches saying they wouldn’t be where they are today without those influential adults in their life (67%). First Tee knows its coaches are the key to its success, which is why it’s celebrating them during First Tee Week, May 19-25. The new brand awareness campaign will mark the launch of a PSA titled “Dear Coach” and feature a panel discussion on the impact of coaches at the PGA TOUR’s Charles Schwab Challenge.

Other key findings from the survey include:

  • 69% of parents believe there aren’t enough female coaches or mentors in youth sports. That number increases to 74% among parents of color. While parents see the impact of coaches, they believe coaching is significantly more accessible to boys than girls.
  • 92% of parents believe that playing sports helps kids build character. That number jumps to 97% when surveying parents whose children are currently enrolled in sports. Parents see improved mental health and exposure to new things as additional benefits of extracurricular activities.
  • More than half of parents say trustworthy coaches could increase their child’s chances of committing to an activity (51%). Parents cite positive role modeling as their top priority when assessing a coach, followed by skill development and motivation and encouragement. All First Tee coaches are trained and background checked, so they’re prepared to teach golf skills and life lessons that extend beyond the course.

“Even amid economic uncertainty, parents see youth sports as a non-negotiable investment in their child’s future,” said Abbey Lunney, Managing Director of the Trends and Thought Leadership Practice at The Harris Poll. “Nearly 9 in 10 say the experience helped prepare their children for the future. Our data shows they’re not just hoping for athletic success—they’re prioritizing confidence, resilience, and lifelong skills shaped by meaningful coaching.”

This is the third annual research collaboration between The Harris Poll and First Tee.

Download the full 2025 report.

For the results of the 2024 parent survey, click here.

From first swing to future impact: Maria Ramos’ journey with First Tee – Greater Philadelphia

Maria Ramos tried her hand at several sports before fate intervened. Her grandfather was a talented golfer and caddie. Though they never met, his legacy helped shape the path she walks today. With his memory in mind, Maria’s mom encouraged her to try golf.

Watching tournaments on TV, Maria noticed there weren’t many players who looked like her. Still, the presence of trailblazing players like Lorena Ochoa and Maria Fassi helped her envision a place for herself in the sport. “One day, we went to First Tee – Greater Philadelphia, and there was this overwhelming sense of kindness and care for students,” Maria said.

She quickly discovered that First Tee offered more than golf instruction. One lesson that left a lasting impression is the importance of using good judgment, Maria said. On the course, this means evaluating your shot from every angle, making a decision and executing with confidence, Maria explained. Off the course, it’s the mindset Maria brings to solving computer algorithms — thinking critically and acting with clarity.

College, community and continued growth

Maria now studies artificial intelligence at the University of Pennsylvania. She’s a member of the First Tee College Scholarship Program, which provides financial support, professional development opportunities and mentorship to standout First Tee alumni.

The program has helped Maria sharpen her networking skills, and she’s built strong bonds with her fellow Scholars, she said. “Now, as an adult I represent the future of First Tee,” she said. “I have no doubt we will all be friends for the rest of our lives and maintain involvement.”

Maria’s commitment to making a difference was recently rewarded by First Tee Trustee, Accenture. Maria teamed up with classmates to win Accenture’s 2025 Innovation Challenge an opportunity she learned about through Accenture’s partnership with First Tee.  During the competition, Maria and her teammates consulted for the Special Olympics, integrating technology and social impact.

“Partnering with the Special Olympics for this year’s Accenture Innovation Challenge was a delight,” said Christy Sovereign, senior managing director at Accenture and president and CEO of the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. “Being able to witness how the next generation of leaders applied technology and teamwork to make a real difference in the lives of athletes and their communities was truly inspiring. Congrats to Maria and team for launching their Impact Passport program that empowers individuals with IDD to build social connections, track progress and engage with Special Olympics communities.”

Maria also explored her passion for making a difference through technology while studying abroad in Costa Rica. “I saw that some rural farmers had engineered amazing technologies that would likely never make it to market,” she said. “With my engineering background, eventually I hope to work in impact investing, focusing on technologies made by or for marginalized communities.”

Maria has big plans for this summer as a USGA Pathways Intern, which means she’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the 2025 U.S. Open.

The First Tee Alumni Network is your resource for job listings, networking and access to First Tee alumni meetups. Learn more.

Building confidence and perseverance: A journey from First Tee to cybersecurity

As a participant in First Tee – Delaware, Grace Lombardi said she learned not only the fundamentals of golf but also some of life’s most valuable lessons. Confidence and perseverance are values that have helped Grace overcome obstacles and carve a path into the world of cybersecurity, an industry where women are still a minority.

“Confidence empowered me to take on challenges, whether it was mastering complex security concepts, earning certifications or speaking up in technical discussions,” she said. “At the same time, perseverance kept me moving forward despite obstacles, from overcoming imposter syndrome to pushing through rigorous training and setbacks.”

Grace recently began working in AWS Professional Services, supporting national security as a cloud engineering consultant. In this role, she works with clients in the federal government, helping them leverage AWS solutions to enhance their operations.

Grace said she’s proud to work for an organization that’s a major supporter of First Tee. AWS joined First Tee as a Trustee in 2021. With a dedicated team, AWS supports participants through STEM programming, employee volunteerism and alumni support. In 2024, AWS invited a select First Tee alumni to AWS re:Invent, the world’s largest annual cloud computing conference.

At re:Invent, Grace was able to attend several workshops. “I highly encourage any First Tee alumni to attend re:Invent if they get the chance,” she said. “While it’s a tech conference, the wealth of knowledge, networking opportunities and exposure to innovation make it valuable for professionals in any field.”

Forging a path in cybersecurity

Golf isn’t easy, and resilience is a trait Grace picked up during her seven years as a First Tee participant.

She said it’s important for her to stay involved with the organization because she wants to give back to the next generation. “First Tee gave me the opportunity to have so many amazing experiences across the country, and I learned so much while meeting incredible people,” she said.

Grace always knew she wanted a career that would challenge her. When she was a high school sophomore, she got an invitation that would change her life. A friend asked her to tag along to a cybersecurity conference because he didn’t want to go alone. She participated in a digital capture-the-flag competition, and the rest is history.

“I had no idea what I was doing, but I had an absolute blast and learned so much from the other attendees,” she said. She was struck by how much people seemed to enjoy their work in cybersecurity, and a new career path was on her radar.

Grace enrolled in coding classes at a local community college, before attending Rochester Institute of Technology as an undergrad and graduate student. She spent more than two years working for federal agencies before joining AWS.

“Looking back, what started as an unexpected experience at a conference in high school turned into a fulfilling career built on curiosity, problem solving and a drive to make a real impact,” she said. She felt the same type of excitement at re:Invent. “It opened the door to incredible opportunities, deepened my technical knowledge and ultimately paved the way for my career at AWS,” she said.

“Grace’s story illustrates the powerful impact of relationships like AWS and First Tee in shaping future leaders,” said Ebony Taylor, head of global executive customer engagement at AWS Professional Services. “Her journey from learning golf fundamentals to becoming a cloud engineering consultant demonstrates how confidence and perseverance can drive success in technology fields.”

“At AWS, we value individuals who aren’t afraid to dive deep into new challenges and continuously learn. We’re proud to support organizations like First Tee that help develop well-rounded professionals who can make meaningful contributions to critical fields like cybersecurity, and we’re happy to create pathways for more talented individuals like Grace to thrive in technology careers,” Taylor said.

Learn more about the First Tee Alumni Network, which provides professional development and social opportunities across the country.

Meredith Speer’s journey from First Tee to a golf career

The game of golf is more than just a sport; it’s a powerful vehicle for personal growth, leadership and community. For Meredith Speer, First Tee has been an integral part of her journey, not just to become a skilled golfer but to pursue a career in the industry. Her story highlights the transformative impact of First Tee programs, which have helped shape her path on and off the golf course.

Meredith joined First Tee – Greater El Paso at 6, and when her family later moved to Cedar Park, Texas, she became involved with First Tee – Greater Austin. Female leaders at both chapters became mentors for Meredith, who soon realized she wanted golf to be a big part of her life.

“Kristi Albers started my love for the game by taking me under her wing and giving me lessons after every Saturday class,” Meredith said. “And Jennifer MacCurrach has been a mentor in so many aspects of my life – in and outside of golf.”

Meredith is currently enrolled in the PGA Golf Management Program at Sam Houston State University, where she was recently elected president of the PGM Student Association. This summer she’ll intern at Southern Hills Country Club, which has hosted three U.S. Opens and five PGA Championships.

“At this internship, I will be working in the golf performance center learning all about giving lessons and club fittings,” she said. “Along with that, I will get more experience working outside services and inside the golf shop getting more experience with merchandising.”

The First Tee College Scholarship Program is shaping future leaders

Meredith is a member of the First Tee College Scholarship Program. As a Scholar, she receives access to professional development opportunities, a dedicated mentor and financial support.

“The First Tee Scholarship Program has supported me in so many ways academically and socially,” she explained. “It’s given me the confidence I need to pursue a career in golf, and I’ve had the opportunity to hear from women who are already in the industry. Their stories have inspired me and assured me that success is possible.”

The First Tee College Scholarship Program is supported by generous partners like Chevron, which hosted a group of First Tee alumni at The Chevron Championship in Woodlands, Texas, last week. Meredith attended the event and networked with a variety of golf industry professionals.

“The alumni meetup at The Chevron Championship was one of the most amazing experiences,” Meredith said. “Getting to meet up with my fellow First Tee friends and watch the amazing LPGA golfers only solidified my choice of working in this industry.”

The First Tee Alumni Network helps connect past participants, providing networking opportunities, social events and job listings. Join now.

First Tee Week: National campaign launches May 19 at the Charles Schwab Challenge, celebrating coaches who are game changers in their communities  

Parents call coaches the “unsung heroes of youth development.” First Tee will celebrate these mentors during its inaugural network-wide awareness campaign. 

Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. (March 11, 2025) – Leading nonprofit youth development organization First Tee is launching a weeklong national awareness campaign to celebrate the impact of its coaches. By seamlessly integrating the game of golf with a life skills curriculum, First Tee creates active learning experiences that build character like inner strength, self-confidence and resilience that kids can carry to everything they do. 

Kicking off at the Charles Schwab Challenge in Fort Worth, Texas, from May 19-25, First Tee Week aims to engage communities across the country, encouraging them to celebrate the coaches who make a difference locally. Entitled “Dear Coach,” the campaign will feature a variety of in-person and online activities, including: 

  • First Tee will launch a new creative campaign, including an updated PSA that speaks to the power of youth sports coaches to instill confidence, values and life skills in the kids they serve. 
  • On Wednesday, May 21, First Tee will host a group of alumni at the PGA TOUR’s Charles Schwab Challenge, where they’ll hear from a panel on “The coach effect: The importance of coaches and the stories that shape us.” The panel will feature New Orleans Saints defensive end and First Tee – Phoenix alumnus Cameron Jordan alongside other First Tee alumni. 
  • First Tee chapters across the country will host a variety of activations, including a fundraising tournament at Winged Foot (Metropolitan New York), meet the coach night (San Francisco), golf marathons (Greater Baltimore, West Michigan) and more. Find a First Tee chapter in your area. 
  • First Tee’s corporate partners will celebrate First Tee Week in a variety of ways. “Dear Coach” content will appear at Topgolf and PGA TOUR Superstore locations across the country, with organizations like Golf Digest, the USGA and Morgan Stanley planning to highlight coach stories on their own channels. 
  • First Tee has launched a digital experience at FirstTee.org/DearCoach and social content featuring stories from participants, alumni and notable supporters like former NFL player Larry Fitzgerald and PGA TOUR professional Wyndham Clark on the incredible relationships between coaches and participants. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn to engage. 

“Today’s kids and teens are facing new challenges, and parents are looking for character-building programs because they know strength of character is essential for overcoming obstacles,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “For nearly 30 years, our dedicated and trained coaches have set First Tee apart because we have developed a training system built on research-proven methods of positive youth development. We are excited to celebrate their contributions and raise awareness for their work during First Tee Week.” 

According to research from Harris Poll, 91% of parents agree that sports coaching should inspire their child to excel both on and off the field, and they believe coaches can impact their child’s ability to work well with others and be resilient in the face of challenges. 

First Tee’s network of 150 chapters engage more than 5,000 active, trained coaches who deliver a curriculum designed with input from youth development experts using golf as the platform. First Tee serves more than 3.1 million kids annually. 

Learn more about getting involved with First Tee. 

Coach Emily ‘is a mentor and role model’

It’s no secret that First Tee considers its coaches to be the most important ingredient in its success. All trained and background checked, First Tee coaches connect with participants to ensure each one feels safe and celebrated for the qualities that make them unique.

One coach who exemplifies First Tee’s mission is Emily Ortmeier of First Tee – Southern Colorado, who has been with the chapter for five years. “Emily Ortmeier is more than a coach; she is a mentor and role model,” said First Tee – Southern Colorado board member Jeff Stedman.

A former collegiate golfer, Emily leads by example and inspires participants to do their best on and off the golf course, according to her colleagues at First Tee – Southern Colorado.

“When a participant fails, Coach Emily is always there to console and encourage them to persevere,” said chapter CEO Sandy Johnson. “She uses these moments as learning opportunities that greatly help to develop the character of each participant, reassuring them that we must fail in order to learn how to succeed and get right back to pursuing our goals.”

Eagles for Impact at THE PLAYERS® Championship

As the eyes of the golf world turn to TPC Sawgrass for THE PLAYERS Championship 2025, there’s an extra reason to root for low scores. For every eagle or double eagle carded by the pros during the tournament, Morgan Stanley will donate $5,000 to support First Tee’s coach training efforts.

Last year, Emily was one of 107 coaches to benefit from Morgan Stanley’s generosity. She attended a Level 4 training in Monterey, California, and has advanced to the point where she now leads Level 1 trainings for new coaches. She’s trained 20 coaches in her region.

First Tee – Southern Colorado colleagues agree that Emily’s passion for making golf accessible to all kids is evident in her work. She’s helped 21 new schools and community centers begin offering First Tee programming over the last two years.

In fact, Emily means so much to the community that she was recently recognized with Southern Colorado Business Forum & Digest’s 40 Under 40 Award.

Coaches make the difference

According to research from First Tee and Harris Poll, 80% of parents believe there’s a shortage of high caliber coaches today. That’s why First Tee is committed to coach training and youth safety.

Nine out of 10 parents agree that coaches should help their child succeed both on and off the field, and parents view coaching as instrumental for teaching collaboration, resilience and leadership – all qualities that become even more important into adulthood.

Learn more about the importance of youth sports coaches.

National Girls and Women in Sports Day: ‘It gave me the courage to try new things’ 

Youth sports participation can be a game changer for kids and families. Sports can help kids develop healthy habits and strong motor skills, but the benefits aren’t just physical.  

Parents agree that sports create opportunities for teamwork, improve children’s mental health and provide supportive adults to strengthen character development, according to research from First Tee and Harris Poll. 

But opportunities to participate in sports can be more limited for girls. According to the Women’s Sports Foundation, girls have 1.3 million fewer opportunities to play high school sports compared to boys. 

Enhancing access to sports is one of the aims on National Girls and Women in Sports Day, which celebrates the accomplishments of female athletes and highlights the benefits that come with playing sports, both on and off the field. 

Lauren Kyaw manages the coach program at First Tee. As a collegiate athlete now working in youth sports, she’s seen and experienced its benefits firsthand. In honor of National Girls and Women in Sports Day, she shared her thoughts on how sports have changed her life. 

FT: What have you personally gained from playing sports? 

LK: Playing sports has given me the confidence to try new things and fail. I used to feel like I always had to be “perfect” in school and in life. Playing golf, perfection doesn’t exist. 

Playing golf also gave me the opportunity to stay active while doing what I love and connecting with people. I love meeting new people and being able to network, especially with the women in my community.  

Playing golf has developed my self-efficacy and grit, where I feel comfortable setting goals and going after them. It helps me stick to something, even when it gets hard and to fight for what I want to achieve.  

FT: Do girls face additional barriers when it comes to playing golf? 

LK: I have been playing golf for over 10 years and am still intimidated when I’m the only women on the range, practice area or in my group. It sometimes feels like I don’t belong, but I push past that and want to be a role model for other girls who play. 

After playing collegiate golf, I have seen so many of my friends and teammates give up the game entirely. It can be very difficult to make time for golf and the things you love, but I think it’s so important to continue to invest in your happiness.  

FT: The benefits of playing sports extend beyond physical health. What lessons from sports can girls carry into adulthood? 

LK: From my experience, sports help so much with mental health and provide a great way to invest in my overall happiness. I am so grateful when I’m out on the course and love to look at nature, focus on my breathing and disconnect. It gives me the time and space I need to refocus and serves as a restart for me.  

Golf has also helped me so much with my body confidence, which is especially important for girls, who can feel pressure to look a certain way. I feel strong when wearing golf attire, especially hot pink! 

And on top of that, playing sports has helped so much with my time management. I play a lot of golf, and it takes a lot of time. To be able to do this, I must maximize my time at work and home so I can do what I love. This is so important as a student-athlete, as playing sports can feel like a full-time job. Our college coaches always said, “Good Human- Good Student- Good Athlete,” and it is something I live by.  

FT: How do sports serve as a platform for girls to challenge stereotypes and break through societal expectations? 

LK: When I play golf, I have often faced pressure to play the “women’s tee” or get looks on the first tee. It takes a lot of courage for me to stand up for myself and ability. I hope new golfers feel the confidence to do the same. 

As girls play sports, they showcase their strength and talent. It is amazing to see what our bodies and minds can do and overcome what people think we should be able to do. I always go back to you “swing like a girl”, “hit like a girl”, or “throw like a girl”. From the athletes I know, I would love to play like a girl and win as much as they do. 

FT: What role do sports play in promoting gender equality, both on and off the field? 

LK: In golf specifically, there are important conversations happening during rounds surrounding business, relationship building and networking. When women feel confident and empowered to play, it brings them into these important conversations and positions them as leaders and decision makers.  

When more women play sports, it grows representation and shows girls that they can do it to. I think of women like Ilona Maher, Caitlin Clark and Simone Biles who showcase their strength and ability and are advocates for women in sports. They spark tough conversations, stand up for what is right and push societal expectations so that women are equally recognized in their accomplishments. 

Mentors make a difference: Scholar Nelia Leong shares tips for making a connection 

Young people have lots to navigate – not just school and career development, but they’re also building confidence, overcoming challenges and taking on their first leadership roles. These are all areas where a mentor can help. 

For many participants, First Tee coaches serve as early mentors, with parents seeing the benefits. According to research from First Tee and Harris Poll, parents turn to coaches to help teach their kids character, perseverance and leadership skills.  

Three-quarters of adults who were mentored in their youth say their mentor “contributed significantly to their success later in life.”  

With its many benefits, mentorship is an essential element of the First Tee College Scholarship Program which extends First Tee’s impact to alumni by providing support throughout their post-graduate career. In addition to receiving financial support and professional development opportunities, each First Tee Scholar is matched with an adult mentor to help support them during their college experience. 

“We’ve seen our Scholars buy into their mentorship connections and because of that, they have another layer of support to guide them through any obstacles and challenges they face in college,” said Robbie Lowman, who oversees the First Tee College Scholarship Program. “Our mentors help our Scholars become the best versions of themselves, which benefits them in the job market.” 

An alumna of First Tee – Upstate South Carolina, Scholar Nelia Leong is a junior at the University of Florida. As she prepares to apply to dental school, Nelia reflected on her connection with her mentor, Jennifer Weiler, senior vice president of network relations at First Tee.  

“The most important lesson I’ve learned from Jen is that it’s okay to ask for help,” Nelia. “In fact, it can lead to incredible opportunities.” 

Jen helped Nelia connect with a dentist in her network. Nelia has since been shadowing and assisting him for two years, and he’s writing a letter of recommendation for her dental school applications. 

“Jen’s mentorship has been one of the most important relationships in my life,” Nelia said. “We’ve built a strong, trusting bond where I feel comfortable sharing all aspects of my life, knowing she’ll listen and offer support.” 

Nelia said Jen was there for her during the stressful lead up to her Dental Admissions Test last year, and Jen was the first person she texted to celebrate after receiving an excellent score on the exam. 

While having a mentor on your side can be incredibly beneficial, it’s not always easy to build and maintain a relationship in a busy world. 

“I built a personal connection with my mentor by keeping her updated on both the big and small events in my life,” Nelia said. “She celebrates my successes and supports me through challenges.” 

In addition to texting, Nelia and Jen connect by Google Meet at least once per month. They especially relish opportunities to meet in person. 

Jen says she has enjoyed being Nelia’s mentor throughout her college journey. “It has been fun to connect with Nelia virtually, on the golf course and at First Tee scholar events. She is such an impressive young woman and has an incredible future ahead of her.” She added, “I am so proud to have been a very small part of her success in college.”  

Nelia’s tips for cultivating a strong mentor-mentee relationship: 

  • Try to connect at least once a month, and don’t be afraid to reach out about the small things. 
  • Share your struggles and your wins. 
  • Ask for help when you need it.  

First Tee Network Awards presented in partnership with Golf Digest honor outstanding leader, coach, volunteer and teacher of the year

Golf Digest will provide $175,000 in grants to support the winning chapters.

PHOENIX, AZ (Nov. 25, 2024) – Recipients of the annual First Tee Awards presented in partnership with Golf Digest were celebrated last week at First Tee’s 2024 Network Summit, a biennial gathering of more than 800 chapter leaders and partners from across the globe. The following individuals were recognized at the event in Phoenix for their dedication to the nonprofit youth development organization, which uses golf to teach life skills and build character.

Tim Finchem Leadership Award Winner: Gary Koch of First Tee – Tampa Bay
In 2021, the former professional golfer and NBC Sports broadcaster spearheaded the construction of a short course at First Tee – Tampa Bay’s home site of Rogers Park, providing the community with a new youth-accessible playing facility. The award recognizes an individual’s service and commitment to the mission of First Tee.

Coach of the Year: Manny Gallardo of First Tee – Silicon Valley
Over the last decade, Gallardo has become a beloved coach at the chapter, personally developing more than 200 games and activities to further engage First Tee participants. He is responsible for the development of the girls’ program at the chapter and is named as a mentor to participants, coaches and staff alike. Gallardo received First Tee’s inaugural Coach of the Year award.

George H.W. Bush Volunteer of the Year: Leslie Kleinman of First Tee – Cleveland
In 2008, Kleinman launched a culinary program that brings the life skills and values taught at First Tee into the kitchen, educating kids about diverse cuisines, healthy eating and the value of service through cooking for the Cleveland Food Bank.

Teacher of the Year: Layne Frazier of First Tee – Four Corners (NW New Mexico)
Frazier has been teaching at Eva B. Stokely Elementary School in Shiprock, New Mexico, for the last 16 years, 10 of which included First Tee School Program curriculum. He has introduced the game of golf to students from the Navajo Reservation both at the school where he teaches and by introducing other local schools to First Tee.

First Tee chapters in Tampa Bay, Silicon Valley and Cleveland will each receive $25,000 from Golf Digest, while First Tee – Four Corners and Frazier’s elementary school will split $25,000.

First Tee also honored three chapters with the Barbara A. Douglas & Dr. William J. Powell Diversity Award, which began in 2013 to recognize chapters that demonstrate outstanding leadership and commitment to expanding access and inclusivity in their community. Golf Digest will make donations totaling $75,000 to these chapters:

  • First Tee – Central Coast ($35,000 recipient): Through a collaboration with People’s Self-Help Housing, the longest-serving nonprofit housing organization on California’s Central Coast, the chapter has engaged nearly 100 new participants from these families. Building off this success, First Tee – Central Coast connected with other organizations in the area to impact an additional 1000+ underserved youth through First Tee programming.
  • First Tee – Florida Gold Coast ($25,000 recipient): In 2023, the chapter’s participants were 63% ethnically diverse and 41% female, and the chapter was able to serve nearly 1,000 kids with special needs through partnerships with Boys & Girls Club, Police Athletics League, Big Brothers Big Sisters and the YMCA as well as other local organizations like Martin County Parks & Rec.
  • First Tee – Central Carolina ($15,000 recipient): Unique to the chapter is an HBCU Summer Golf Internship, where 10 HBCU golfers are given access to practice facilities while also gaining practical nonprofit experience. The chapter offers programming at Gillespie Golf Course and recently commissioned a mural that celebrates the sacrifices and impact of the “Greensboro Six.”

As a network, 47% of First Tee participants are ethnically diverse and 38% are female. More than 90% of chapters are serving young people with intellectual or developmental disabilities and nearly a quarter of participants (24%) come from at-risk or distressed communities, based on the Economic Innovation Group’s Distressed Communities Index.

“The award winners represent the true heroes of First Tee,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “They wake up each day with the intention of making a difference in young people’s lives. Congratulations to all the winners. Also, we are incredibly grateful to Golf Digest, for their longtime support of First Tee.”

“We are proud to honor all the First Tee individuals and chapters who are so dedicated to sharing golf with kids from all backgrounds, helping them learn life skills that go beyond the course,” said Golf Digest general manager Chris Reynolds. “Their inspiring stories remind us of what makes this game so special.”

First Tee celebrates Charles Schwab, Paul Fireman and PURE Insurance for ongoing support

PHOENIX (Nov. 21, 2024) – First Tee honored several of its most dedicated supporters Wednesday evening during a celebration dinner at the youth organization’s biennial Network Summit, where more than 800 chapter representatives and partners were gathered. Paul Fireman joined Tim Finchem as a recipient of First Tee’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Charles Schwab and PURE Insurance received the Founders Award, recognizing their longtime support of First Tee’s mission.

Former chairman of Reebok, chairman of Fireman Capital Partners and co-founder of Liberty National Golf Club, Fireman became a First Tee Trustee in 2012. He and his family have invested $8 million in First Tee nationally and in the four chapters in New Jersey – Essex County, Jersey Shore, Raritan Valley and Trenton – supporting their efforts to reach more than 500,000 youth in the last several years.

First Tee also announced the winners of its Founders Award, which it has presented since 2002, as a measure of sincere gratitude to the individuals and organizations whose generosity enables First Tee to impact millions of kids. This year, First Tee honored Charles Schwab and PURE Insurance for their ongoing commitment to First Tee.

“First Tee would not be where it is today without the vision and ongoing commitment of supporters like Paul Fireman, Charles Schwab and the PURE Insurance company,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “When you look back on the organization’s success, it is the individuals, foundations and companies who believe in the mission that fuel the work. We are deeply grateful for their longstanding commitment to First Tee at both the national and local levels of the organization.”

Paul Fireman is just the third person to be recognized with the First Tee Lifetime Achievement Award, following former PGA TOUR commissioner and founder of First Tee, Tim Finchem, who was honored this past October, and retired First Tee CEO Joe Louis Barrow Jr., who was honored in 2022.

Charles Schwab not only provides financial support to First Tee chapters, having established a $25-million dollar matching grant, but the business executive also founded First Tee – San Francisco alongside Sandy Tatum in 2004 and was integral to the redevelopment of Harding Park, one of the chapter’s signature program locations.

Since 2016, PURE Insurance has been the title sponsor of an annual PGA TOUR Champions event that pairs First Tee juniors with golf legends at Pebble Beach. In 2021, the firm expanded its impact on First Tee, becoming a Trustee and committing $1 million to the First Tee College Scholarship Program, which has helped nearly 100 First Tee alumni advance their education by providing financial support, mentorship and professional development opportunities. First Tee is a nonprofit youth development organization that empowers young people through the game of golf, helping them develop their inner strength, confidence and life skills that they use on and off the course.