Little did Allison Brown know a life-changing gift awaited her when she traveled to Florida to visit family 12 years ago.
“When we arrived, my uncle pulled out three small golf bags – one for me, and one for each of my brothers,” she said. “I was excited about the gift, but I wasn’t sure what I was supposed to do with them.”
Her uncle taught her the basics at the driving range and told her parents about a program called First Tee. “I remember my first time walking inside and meeting the coaches and the other kids, and the rest is history,” she said
Now a high school junior, Allison has been involved with First Tee – Greater Philadelphia for more than a decade, and she’s making the most of the opportunities it provides.
Last year, she attended the First Tee Leadership Summit in partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore, a leadership development event in Montana, where participants learn from pushing their boundaries and trying new things, like whitewater rafting and horseback riding. This summer, she attended the Game Changers Academy, which brought together 72 teens from across the First Tee network in Minneapolis, encouraging them to celebrate their differences and embrace new perspectives.
Allison is also an Ace participant at First Tee – Greater Philadelphia. As part of First Tee’s capstone program, Ace candidates must complete four projects designed to help them prepare for the future. The projects center around academics, career exploration, community service and golf.
“Being a part of First Tee isn’t only about learning to play the game of golf — it’s about learning to become better people,” Allison said. “The Ace Program is what really focuses on that aspect of First Tee. It has given me the tools to fully think about and prepare for my future and, more importantly, helps me enrich my community through various service projects.”
Allison’s interests extend far beyond golf. She plays volleyball, taught herself French and was even cast to play a titular role in a production of Romeo & Juliet. “First Tee taught me to be confident in myself and my abilities which gave me confidence needed to audition for the role,” she said.
While working toward her high school diploma, she’s also earning an associate’s degree through a dual enrollment program with Liberty University.
Learn more about First Tee’s opportunities for teens.