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First Tee

First Tee is an international youth development organization introducing the game of golf and its inherent values to kids and teens. Through after-school and in-school programs, we help shape the lives of young people from all walks of life by reinforcing values like integrity, respect, and perseverance through the game of golf. And it’s making a difference.

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Positive impact on your child, your family, your community.

nine core values

Our Nine Core Values represent some of the many inherently positive values connected with the game of golf. See how kids and families benefit from our values and are encouraged to reinforce these behaviors at home.

  • Honesty
  • Integrity
  • Sportsmanship
  • Respect
  • Confidence
  • Responsibility
  • Perseverance
  • Courtesy
  • Judgment
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hon·es·ty

the quality or state of being truthful; not deceptive

Golf is unique from other sports in that players regularly call penalties on themselves and report their own score.

Apply This Value Blog: Why is golf different? Watch: Rickie Fowler Talk about our Values

in·teg·ri·ty

strict adherence to a standard of value or conduct; personal honesty and independence

Golf is a game of etiquette and composure. Players are responsible for their actions and personal conduct on the golf course even at times when others may not be looking.

Apply this Value Watch: Sergio Garcia Talks About our Values Blog: Coach inspires youth to live with integrity

sports·man·ship

observing the rules of play and winning or losing with grace

Players must know and abide by the rules of golf and be able to conduct themselves in a kind and respectful manner towards others even in a competitive game.

Apply this Value Watch: Scott Langley Talks about our Values

re·spect

to feel or show deferential regard for; esteem

In golf it is important to show respect for oneself, playing partners, fellow competitors, the golf course, and for the honor and traditions of the game.

Apply this Value Blog: The Power of a Handshake Watch: Scott Langley talks about our Core Values

con·fi·dence

reliance or trust. A feeling of self-assurance

Confidence plays a key role in the level of play that one achieves. Players can increase confidence in their abilities by being positive and focusing on something they are doing well regardless of the outcome.

Apply this Value Watch: Paula Creamer Talks about our Values Blog: Top 5 Reasons Girls Should Play Sports—Like Golf

re·spon·si·bil·i·ty

accounting for one’s actions; dependable

Players are responsible for their actions on the golf course. It is up to them to keep score, repair divots, rake bunkers, repair ball marks on the green, and keep up with the pace of play.

Apply this Value Watch: Rickie Fowler talks about our Values Blog: Coach inspires youth to use responsibility

per·se·ver·ance

to persist in an idea, purpose or task despite obstacles

To succeed in golf, players must continue through bad breaks and their own mistakes, while learning from past experiences.

Apply this Value Watch: Sergio Garcia talks about our values Blog: 10 participants exemplify perseverance Blog: Charlie Sifford’s Perseverance Paved the Way

cour·te·sy

considerate behavior toward others; a polite remark or gesture

A round of golf should begin and end with a handshake between fellow competitors. Players also should be still and quiet while others are preparing and performing a shot.

Apply this Value Watch: Jimmy Walker talks about our Core Values Blog: The Power of a Handshake

judg·ment

the ability to make a decision or form an opinion; a decision reached after consideration

Using good judgment is very important in golf. It comes into play when deciding on strategy, club selection, when to play safe and when to take a chance, the type of shot players consider executing, as well as making healthy choices on and off the golf course.

Apply this Value Watch: Paula Creamer Talk About Our Values Blog: TOMS Founder Reflects on using Judgment

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