Category: News Releases

Inaugural weeklong First Tee Leadership Academy to be held in Atlanta is newest commitment of PGA TOUR Superstore’s partnership

Held in PGA TOUR Superstore’s homebase of Atlanta, 48 teens will develop new leadership skills by learning about the powerful impact sports has on community, business and civic pride

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. and ATLANTA, Ga. (March 21, 2023) – First Tee, a youth development organization that uses golf to teach life skills and positive values, is expanding its roster of impactful national participant opportunities to include a new Leadership Academy in partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore. Forty-eight First Tee teens will be selected to travel to Atlanta to attend the inaugural event June 19-23, providing them a unique opportunity to explore team dynamics that will enhance their professional development as they collaborate with peers and adult mentors.

Atlanta has burst on to the world stage as the civil rights capital, the technology hub of the south, a destination for marquee sporting events, elite colleges and universities, and so much more. Programming will feature sessions on building diverse and impactful teams, developing authentic relationships and empowering others, with an impressive schedule of guest speakers across the Arthur M. Blank Family of Businesses including executives from the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United, Mercedes-Benz Stadium and the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation. Participants will also experience the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta University Center and the Bobby Jones Golf Club.

“PGA TOUR Superstore is committed to being a positive influence in our communities and truly believe in the purposeful impact sports can have in developing and supporting youth both on and off the field,” said Jill Spiegel, President, PGA TOUR Superstore. “We have built a strong partnership with the First Tee and will continue to work together to empower young people with leadership skills built on values such as resilience, integrity and self-confidence that will help them succeed throughout the course of their life.”

“In communities across the country, First Tee is helping kids and teens develop inner strength and discover what they are capable of,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “We are proud to provide national opportunities like the new Leadership Academy to help them build on that foundation and take their life and leadership skills to the next level as they think about their future and plans after high school. We continue to be grateful to Arthur Blank and PGA TOUR Superstore for their ongoing support. It is changing lives.”

For more than a decade, PGA TOUR Superstore and the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation have championed First Tee’s mission through charitable and in-kind donations across the country. In September 2020, PGA TOUR Superstore announced a new grant that will help First Tee reach more kids across the U.S. and strengthen its curriculum for teenage participants, including the development of the Leadership Series, held locally at PGA TOUR Superstores across the country, and the Leadership Summit, which takes place in Emigrant, Montana. The new Leadership Academy in Atlanta is the latest installment in this exciting portfolio of events.

The Leadership Academy is one of several national opportunities provided by First Tee Headquarters to inspire and equip teens on a deeper level as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities.

To be eligible to apply for the Academy, teens were required to participate in a five-week Leadership Series that was hosted at PGA TOUR Superstores across the country this past spring.

For more information on First Tee, visit www.firsttee.org.

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About PGA TOUR First Tee Foundation (“First Tee”)
First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth development organization that is supported by the PGA TOUR. Its mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through the game of golf. Since 1997, First Tee has expanded to reach millions of kids annually through its network of 150 chapters, 10,000 schools and 1,700 youth centers. Headquartered in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA, programs are delivered in all 50 United States and select international locations. President George W. Bush serves as Honorary Chair.  

About PGA TOUR Superstore

PGA TOUR Superstore is operated by Golf & Tennis Pro Shop, Inc., a subsidiary of AMB Sports + Entertainment and is headquartered in metro-Atlanta. As the PGA TOUR’s exclusive off-course/off-airport retail partner in North America, PGA TOUR Superstore provides customers with access to the same technology and expertise as card-carrying PGA TOUR pros. All stores are staffed with teaching professionals and have multiple state-of-the-art swing simulators, practice hitting bays, and large putting greens. There is also an in-house club making and repair facility. Along with equipment and accessories, PGA TOUR Superstore has an unmatched selection of men’s, women’s and juniors’ apparel and footwear for golf and tennis. For more information, visit www.pgatoursuperstore.com.

Contacts:

Megan Hart, First Tee
[email protected]

Megan Mahoney, PGA TOUR Superstore
[email protected]

Topgolf Callaway Brands and First Tee Expand Partnership to Reach More Young People from All Backgrounds

The organizations build on a shared commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, and empowering young people

PONTE VEDRA, FLA. and CARLSBAD, Calif., Dec. 13, 2022 – First Tee®, a youth development organization that helps kids and teens build their strength of character through golf, and Topgolf Callaway Brands Corp. (NYSE: MODG) (the “Company” or “Topgolf Callaway Brands”), a global leader in golf equipment, apparel and entertainment, are expanding their longtime partnership. Through the new partnership, Topgolf Callaway Brands will support initiatives that are helping expand First Tee programs, especially in underserved and underrepresented communities, including networkwide access to Topgolf.

“Topgolf Callaway Brands is proud to support First Tee’s mission to empower children and teens through golf,” said Chip Brewer, President & CEO of Topgolf Callaway Brands. “We are excited to become a First Tee Trustee and through our shared values, provide more access and opportunities for youth in the communities we serve.”

Topgolf Callaway Brands has been supporting First Tee since 2001. The Company is expanding their support and becoming a First Tee Trustee on the heels of the First Tee’s 25th Anniversary Network Summit held in Dallas, November 16 – 18, 2022. The Summit brought together more than 600 representatives from First Tee’s network of 150 chapters to celebrate the organization’s anniversary and continue to build momentum for the future with robust workshops and training sessions. The Summit concluded with a networking event at Topgolf.

“We believe in creating experiences that are just as fun as they are meaningful, and Topgolf Callaway Brands is an ideal partner to help us expand our reach,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “Since launching the organization 25 years ago, it has been our priority to reach young people from all backgrounds, and we are grateful for the support from Topgolf Callaway Brands that will help further our efforts.”

Founded in 1997, First Tee is celebrating 25 years of enabling kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges. By seamlessly integrating the game of golf with a life skills curriculum, First Tee creates active learning experiences that build inner strength, self-confidence and resilience that kids can carry to everything they do. These character education programs are offered at golf courses, schools and youth centers in all 50 states and at six international locations. 

To learn more about First Tee, please visit firsttee.org.  

About PGA TOUR First Tee Foundation (“First Tee”)  

First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth development organization that is supported by the PGA TOUR. Its mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through the game of golf. In 2022, First Tee celebrates its 25th anniversary and reaching millions of youth through its network of 150 chapters, 10,000 schools and 1,700 youth centers. Headquartered in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA, programs are delivered in all 50 United States and select international locations. President George W. Bush serves as Honorary Chair.  

About Topgolf Callaway Brands

Topgolf Callaway Brands Corp. (NYSE: MODG) is an unrivaled tech-enabled Modern Golf and active lifestyle company delivering leading golf equipment, apparel, and entertainment, with a portfolio of global brands including Topgolf, Callaway Golf, TravisMathew, Toptracer, Odyssey, OGIO, Jack Wolfskin, and World Golf Tour (“WGT”). “Modern Golf” is the dynamic and inclusive ecosystem that includes both on-course and off-course golf. For more information, please visit https://www.topgolfcallawaybrands.com.

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MEDIA CONTACTS:    

Sara Henika, First Tee    
[email protected]     
(904) 881-7398   

Lauren Scott, Topgolf Callaway Brands Corp.
[email protected]  
(760) 931-1771

Joe Louis Barrow, Jr. honored with First Tee’s Inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award

The former First Tee CEO received the award in Dallas, where Chapter leaders gathered this week to celebrate the organization’s 25 years of building game changers

Dallas (Nov. 18, 2022) – First Tee celebrated its 25th anniversary this week with a Network Summit in Dallas that was capped off with a big honor for retired CEO Joe Louis Barrow, Jr. PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan and former Commissioner Tim Finchem presented the award to Barrow, who led the nonprofit organization from 2000 to 2017.

Barrow combined passion, enthusiasm and empathy as he led First Tee through a time of incredible growth. Under his leadership, First Tee expanded its network of Chapters, which now stands at 150. The organization also launched its School and Community Programs, which serve millions of kids who may not have access to a golf course.

“While at First Tee, Joe was appropriately called the “Chief Evangelist” because he was always sharing a great story about the impact First Tee had on a particular young person,” said Monahan, who also serves as Chair for the First Tee Board of Governors. “Joe led with many strengths, but perhaps his greatest was ensuring that the kids remained at the heart of every decision.”

Barrow was CEO when First Tee launched its first national participant event, the Life Skills and Leadership Academy. In 2021 the event was renamed the Game Changers Academy Honoring Joe Louis Barrow, Jr. and evolved to address challenges teens face in their daily lives including social justice issues and diversity, equity and inclusion – topics near to Barrow’s heart.

Barrow took on his role as CEO while First Tee was in its infancy. The nonprofit – which teaches life skills through the game of golf – was first announced by Finchem and other leaders from the golf industry at a Central Park press conference on Nov. 13, 1997. A quarter century later, the organization has served millions of kids.

“I am truly humbled by this recognition,” said Barrow. “And I am deeply proud of the positive impact First Tee has had over the years. It wouldn’t have been possible without my dedicated colleagues, the coaches and Chapter staff, and supporters who believed in our mission.”

The Lifetime Achievement Award was one of several awards First Tee presented in Dallas during the organization’s Network Summit held Nov. 16-18. The Summit brought together representatives from First Tee’s network of 150 chapters to celebrate the organization’s 25th anniversary and continue building momentum for the future with robust workshops, training and peer-to-peer networking. Appearances were made by President George W. Bush, honorary chair of First Tee, PGA TOUR player Will Zalatoris, artist and criminal justice reform activist Valentino Dixon and other inspirational speakers. The Summit was presented by Century Golf Partners, supported by 3M and made possible by other corporate partners who stand behind First Tee’s mission. The Dallas event also featured an Alumni Summit presented by Gallagher and an Innovators Forum for participants.

First Tee congratulates all the award winners:

  • Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation and Southern Company were recognized with Founders Awards for their ongoing and generous support of the organization.
  • Michael Brown of First Tee – Greater Philadelphia and Dave Roughton of First Tee – Greater Sacramento were recognized with the Tim Finchem Leadership Award. Both chapters will receive a $5,000 donation from CapTech.
  • Deb DeNure of First Tee – South Central Wisconsin and Karen Hart of First Tee – Delaware were named the George H.W. Bush Volunteers of the Year. Along with the award, each Chapter will receive a $5,000 donation from FootJoy.
  • First Tee – Delaware and First Tee – Greater Charleston were honored with the Barbara A. Douglas and Dr. William J. Powell Diversity Award. Both Chapters will receive a $5,000 donation from The Toro Company.
  • Neil Young of First Tee – Triangle was awarded the inaugural First Tee Teacher of the Year Award presented by GolfGen who will make a $5,000 donation to the Chapter for its nomination.

“There are more than 10,000 volunteers, Chapter staff members, board members and donors who make First Tee the impactful organization it is today,” said current First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “It’s so special to be able to honor a handful of those people who have truly changed kids’ lives for the better.”

Photos and video from Network Summit including Joe Louis Barrow, Jr., President Bush, and Founders Award winners are available here.

A 25th anniversary press kit with fact sheet, alumni stories, anniversary logo, photos and video is available here.

About PGA TOUR First Tee Foundation (“First Tee”)
First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth development organization that is supported by the PGA TOUR. Its mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through the game of golf. In 2022, First Tee celebrates its 25th anniversary and reaching millions of youth through its network of 150 Chapters, 10,000 schools and 1,700 youth centers. Headquartered in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA, programs are delivered in all 50 United States and select international locations. President George W. Bush serves as Honorary Chair.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Sara Henika, First Tee
[email protected]
904-881-7398

First Tee Celebrates 25 Years of Empowering Youth through Golf

First Tee has grown into a preeminent youth development organization with a network of 150 chapters which will come together in celebration of this milestone Nov. 16-18 in Dallas

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. (Nov. 14, 2022) – Twenty-five years ago, on November 13, 1997, then-PGA TOUR Commissioner Tim Finchem was joined in New York City’s Central Park by representatives from the leading golf organizations – the LPGA, the Masters Tournament, the PGA of America, the PGA TOUR, and the USGA – public officials, including President George H. W. Bush, and golf dignitaries to announce the launch of First Tee.

Since that time, First Tee has grown into a preeminent youth development organization boasting a network of nearly 150 chapters with programs delivered at 1,400 golf courses, 10,000 schools and 1,700 youth centers in all 50 states and in Australia, Canada, Japan, Korea, Mexico and Morocco. In 2021, First Tee impacted more than 2.2 million kids and teens. Additionally, more than 10,000 adults are involved each year in support of First Tee’s mission, many of whom have participated in First Tee’s signature positive youth development training.

“I am proud of First Tee’s growth and impact over the last 25 years,” said President George W. Bush, First Tee Honorary Chair. “Their mission to help young people build life skills and strengthen their character using the game of golf has proven successful. Organizations like First Tee are critical to our society and our country’s future. I am grateful my father chose to get involved 25 years ago and pleased to carry the baton since 2011 in support of their work.” 

Under the leadership of Finchem, First Tee was launched as an industrywide initiative to make golf affordable and accessible for all kids. As the first programs were being developed, First Tee began an intentional effort to seamlessly integrate the game of golf with a life skills curriculum, creating a program that empowers youth to build inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience that they can carry to everything they do.

“We are grateful for the vision of my predecessor, Tim Finchem, and for his leadership in creating First Tee in 1997,” said Jay Monahan, PGA TOUR Commissioner and Chair, First Tee Board of Governors. “Congratulations and thank you to all who have played an essential part in growing First Tee and contributing to the many transformational and inspiring stories we have seen over the last 25 years. Just as importantly, we are extremely excited about the path and trajectory of the program going forward as First Tee continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of young people.”

First Tee has been undergoing a modernization effort to stay relevant and connected to kids and teens now and in the future. It refreshed its brand for the first time in 2020 and recently released a robust age-based curriculum update to better position the organization to reach teens and keep kids engaged in the program longer. Technology efforts are also underway to centralize and better support program registration, adult training and onboarding, and tools for coaches. In 2023, the first participant-facing app will launch, providing supplemental digital experiences and gamification for young people in the program.  In recent years, the organization also reinvested in its College Scholarship Program, and it touches hundreds of kids each year through national participant events, spanning from the PURE Insurance Championship at Pebble Beach to a five-day DEI-focused academy in Philadelphia.

“Since day one, First Tee has been intentional about reaching young people from diverse backgrounds, and that commitment continues today,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “Most years, between 40 and 50 percent of participants at chapters are non-Caucasian, and approximately 38% are female. Our network of chapter leaders, coaches, volunteers, board members and donors remain committed to breaking down barriers. And they continue to inspire me as we prepare for the future.”

Throughout this anniversary year, First Tee has highlighted its alumni who’ve gone on to careers in the golf industry and beyond. First Tee’s final alumni feature showcases Ariana Saenz, a former participant at First Tee – Greater Houston, who went on to play collegiate golf at the University of Houston and Texas A&M. Saenz is set to graduate with a master’s degree in human resources later this year and hopes to pursue a career in the golf industry.

“From age seven to 18, I was exposed to a set of morals and life skills at First Tee that poured the foundation for the woman I am today,” said Saenz. “Along the way, I earned a college golf scholarship and went from being a participant to a volunteer who learned the value of giving back to the community and serving others.”

Nov. 16-18, representatives from First Tee’s network of 150 chapters will convene in Dallas for its Network Summit – the first in five years – to celebrate the anniversary and continue building momentum for the future with robust workshops, training and peer-to-peer networking. The Summit is presented by Century Golf Partners and made possible by other corporate partners who stand behind First Tee’s mission.

To learn more about First Tee, its impact and future vision, please visit:

A press kit with fact sheet, alumni stories, anniversary logo, photos and video is available here.

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MEDIA CONTACT:                                                                              
Sara Henika, First Tee                                                                  
[email protected]
904-881-7398 

USGA Continues Grow-the-Game Investment by Awarding 25 Chapter Grants to Celebrate First Tee’s 25th Anniversary

USGA and First Tee continue to expand inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility efforts at the local level with IDEA Grants

LIBERTY CORNER, N.J. and PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. (Oct. 13, 2022) — Commemorating a 25-year partnership with a focus on growing the game, the USGA has continued its investment in First Tee by awarding IDEA grants to 25 chapters across America.

The USGA’s IDEA Grant Program delivers direct funding to community-based programs that break down barriers to participation in golf and First Tee’s character-building programs, improving pathways to inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility. In 2022, 25 chapters — from Massachusetts to California — were awarded up to $25,000 each to provide transportation, hire diverse coaches, train volunteers and build programs in diverse communities, among other activities. 

Totaling $325,000 in 2022, the USGA’s investment in First Tee is the latest demonstration of its long-standing commitment to ensuring recreational golf continues to thrive. What started as a $3 million, three-year commitment by the USGA as a founding partner in 1997 has helped underpin First Tee’s ability to reach more than 2 million youth annually. 

“This year’s IDEA grants are the latest milestone that reflect significant progress made to date in partnership with First Tee,” said Mike Whan, CEO of the USGA. “The best way to introduce youth to the game is by meeting them where they are in their communities, and we are going to continue to drive resources toward the local level to ensure a more accessible and inclusive game for generations to come.”


First Tee was founded in 1997 through the leadership of five golf organizations, aimed at making golf more affordable and accessible in the United States through a national grassroots program. As the first programs were being developed, First Tee began an intentional effort to seamlessly integrate the game of golf with a life skills curriculum, creating learning experiences that build inner strength, self-confidence and resilience that kids can carry to everything they do. Many alumni continue to play and work in the game, inspiring the next generation.

As part of more than 25 years of substantial growth that led to the establishment of 150 First Tee chapters with more than 1,400 program locations in communities across America, the USGA’s targeted support has helped First Tee drive greater equity among underrepresented youth to access golf. The IDEA grants, launched in 2021, fund innovative initiatives for golfers with disabilities, those in Spanish-speaking communities, Indigenous people and at-risk students, among others.  

First Tee is focused on increasing diverse participation year over year through many strategies, including hiring and training diverse coaches and implementing the First Tee School Program in Title 1 schools. The efforts are contributing to the diversification of the sport: Since 1997, there has been a 25 percent increase in non-Caucasian golfers, many of whom entered the game through First Tee.

The 2022 grant recipients include:

  • First Tee — Four Corners, located in southwest Colorado and northwest New Mexico, primarily serves at-risk Native American and Latino youth through programs at Aztec Boys & Girls Club, Sycamore Park Community Center and local elementary schools. The USGA’s IDEA grant funding helps the chapter subsidize green fees, cover curriculum costs and financially support Native American youth participating in junior tournaments.
  • The expansion of First Tee — Greater Charleston’s Game Changers program provides mentoring, STEM and character education, safe spaces, transportation, meals and enrichment activities for students starting in sixth grade and guiding them through high school graduation. The chapter offers programming five days a week during the summer months and every Saturday during the school year with support from the USGA’s IDEA grant funding.
  • Increased opportunities for adaptive youth golfers have been made possible at First Tee — Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. The USGA’s IDEA grant has allowed the chapter to add programming for teens and children with autism, partner with Special Olympics of Hamilton County, host programming for kids with life-threatening and chronic health challenges and provide transportation to Reeves Golf Course for an eight-week life skills course.
  • A two-time IDEA grant recipient, First Tee — Greater Pasadena hosts clinics for the Latina Golf Association while the USGA’s IDEA grant helps cover course and coaching fees for the events tailored toward Hispanic women who have never touched a golf club. 
  • The all-female leadership team at First Tee — Hampton Roads works to increase access to golf for young people of diverse cognitive and physical abilities by partnering with the Special Olympics to host multiple adaptive events and provide members of the adaptive community with access to chapter facilities free of charge. 
  • Eighty-six percent of First Tee — Monterey County participants are Latino, and a partnership with Valley Heath allows the chapter to provide programming to underserved individuals without health care. With support from the USGA’s IDEA grant, this chapter can create golf and life skills classes for Special Kids Connect while expanding its overall ADA accommodations.
  • First Tee — Pittsburgh provides life skills and youth development through a work preparedness program, adaptive golf for special-needs students in the South Fayette School District and community partnerships with Pittsburgh Police Department and Allegheny Youth Development. These initiatives are supported by IDEA grant funding, which covers transportation costs and the purchase of a van to transport youth to year-round sessions.

Since 1997, the USGA has invested more than $33 million in junior programs, including First Tee; LPGA-USGA Girls Golf; Drive, Chip & Putt; and the AJGA as part of a long-standing organizational commitment to advancing the game of golf with exposure beginning at the junior level. Introducing golf at a young age has proven to be a critical tactic in reducing barriers of entry to welcome greater diversity to the game. More than one-quarter of today’s 3.1 million junior golfers are non-Caucasian compared with 6 percent of youth more than 20 years ago. 

In addition to its initial $3 million starter investment in 1997, the USGA immediately began to deliver sizable grants to build First Tee programs in Washington, D.C., Chicago, Kansas, Alabama, Arkansas and many other communities. 

IDEA Grant applications were open to all First Tee chapters affiliated with one of the USGA’s 58 Allied Golf Associations (AGAs). Located in all 50 states and Puerto Rico, AGAs serve millions of golfers at the recreational level by increasing engagement and participation and improving the golfer experience.

2022 USGA IDEA Grant Recipients:

First Tee — Central MississippiFirst Tee — Greater Philadelphia (Pa.)
First Tee — Cleveland (Ohio)First Tee — Greater Portland (Ore.)
First Tee — Coastal CarolinasFirst Tee — Hampton Roads (Va.)
First Tee — ConnecticutFirst Tee — Indiana
First Tee — Greater Dallas (Texas)First Tee — Massachusetts
First Tee — Denver (Colo.)First Tee — Metropolitan New York
First Tee — Fort Worth (Texas)First Tee — Monterey County (Calif.)
First Tee — Four Corners (N.M., Colo.)First Tee — Pittsburgh (Pa.)
First Tee — Greater Charleston (S.C.)First Tee — Sandhills (N.C.)
First Tee — Greater Chicago (Ill.)First Tee — South Dakota
First Tee — Greater Cincinnati & Northern KentuckyFirst Tee — South Puget Sound (Wash.)
First Tee — Greater Pasadena (Calif.)First Tee — Southern Colorado
 First Tee — West Michigan

PURE Insurance Surprises First Tee Participant with Scholarship at the 2022 PURE Insurance Championship

PURE Insurance Grows Its Support of First Tee with a Commitment for $1M to the First Tee College Scholarship Program

PEBBLE BEACH, CALI., Sept. 22, 2022 – First Tee®, a youth development organization that helps kids and teens build their strength of character through golf, announced Isabelle Junio as a First Tee Scholar for the Class of 2023, thanks to the support of PURE Insurance.

PURE Insurance has served as title sponsor of the PURE Insurance Championship Impacting First Tee since 2017. Since coming on board as title sponsor, PURE has continued to deepen its relationship with First Tee, most recently with their support of First Tee College Scholarship Program through a commitment of $1M over five years.

Leaders from PURE Insurance extended a surprise invitation to the scholarship program to 17-year-old Isabelle Junio, a high school senior from First Tee – Phoenix, yesterday at the PURE Insurance Championship.  Junio is a senior at Millennium High School with a GPA of 4.58. She volunteers for the Agua Fria Fine Arts Festival and aspires to become an engineer.

 “Our admiration for and support of this incredible organization continues to grow,” said Katherine Richardson, EVP, Chief Human Resources Officer at PURE Insurance and Head of PURE Foundation. “It’s particularly gratifying to know that we can impact the remarkable young men and women of First Tee, like Isabelle, in such a powerful way.” 

The surprise happened during a private fundraising event hosted by PURE and benefiting the First Tee College Scholarship program.

Earlier this year, First Tee announced the Class of 2022 First Tee Scholars. With 25 Scholars, it’s the largest to date and includes Jacob Zakaria who was surprised by PURE at the 2021 PURE Insurance Championship.

Junio, Zakaria and all the scholars in the program are paired with dedicated, trained adult mentors who will help encourage them throughout their college experience, including virtual and in-person meetups. In addition, the scholars have access to professional development workshops, financial assistance, and help securing internships and job placement. PURE Insurance employees will serve as mentors and the company will contribute to professional development and educational sessions, sharing industry knowledge and expertise with the scholars, as well as offer internship opportunities.  

“Pursuing a college degree is both competitive and challenging for today’s graduating high school students,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “We’re grateful for PURE Insurance’s commitment to our mission through the PURE Insurance Championship, and now through the First Tee College Scholarship Program. This meaningful partnership will allow us to support more First Tee alumni through their college experience with the support of PURE Insurance and its dedicated employees.”  

With the support of PURE Insurance and other generous donors, First Tee will expand the Scholarship Program to more than 200 Scholars by 2030. To learn more about First Tee, please visit https://firsttee.org/.  

Four Teens Earn Selection into the First Tee College Scholarship Program

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL.  (September 12, 2022) – First Tee participants from Minnesota, Massachusetts, San Francisco and Orange County, Calif. have each been awarded scholarships and selection in to the First Tee College Scholarship Program. The teens were selected following their participation in the First Tee Leadership Series and Summit in partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore based on their intentional and innovative commitment to personal growth and development as leaders throughout the course of the program.

First Tee and PGA TOUR Superstore congratulate:

  • Gabriella Mercado from First Tee – Orange County:  Gabriella is a 16-year-old high school junior from Placentia, Calif. She’s been involved with First Tee for seven years. She holds a 4.0 GPA and has aspirations of playing college golf and then becoming a sports lawyer.  Gabriella enjoys community service and in her first two years of high school accumulated more than 225 hours.
  • Jaylyn Remolona from First Tee – San Francisco: Jaylynis a 15-year-old high school junior from San Francisco.  Jaylyn attends Mercy High School in Burlingame has been involved with First Tee for seven years. She holds a 3.65 and outside of school her two hobbies are golf and singing.  
  • Kyzar Joshi from First Tee — Massachusetts: Kyzar is 17-year-old high school senior at Ashland High School in Ashland, Mass.He has been involved with First Tee for more than 10 years. He holds a 4.12 GPA and his career aspirations include playing college golf and majoring in finance or economics in college.  Kyzar serves as his class treasurer, and helped lead the Ashland High School golf team to the state section tournament. Kyzar is in the process of completing the ACE level of the First Tee Curriculum.
  • Saloni Somia from First Tee – Minnesota:  Saloni, from Plymouth, Minn.,is a17-year-old high school senior at Minnetonka High School. She has been involved with First Tee for four years. She holds a 4.0 GPA and serves as the President of her school’s National Honor Society, Captain of the Minnetonka Girls Golf Team, Founder and President of Everyone Eats (an organization that provides homeless youth allergy friendly foods) and co-founded a teen-led YouTube channel that gives good allergy advice to teens.

As First Tee Scholars, the teens will receive support throughout their post-graduate careers. The need and merit-based program provides scholarships up to $5,000 per year, renewable for up to four years of college admission. In addition, each scholar is paired with a dedicated, trained adult mentor who will help encourage and guide them throughout the college experience, including virtual and in person meetups. The program also provides professional development workshops held in person throughout the year.

“We are very proud of these four deserving teens from across the country,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “They each showed dedication and impressive character traits throughout the Leadership Series and Summit.  They are leaders in their schools, at home and at their First Tee chapters. Through the First Tee College Scholarship Program, we will continue to support them in their personal and professional development and empower them to hone their leadership skills as they pursue their careers. We’re thankful for partners like PGA TOUR Superstore who support these game changing initiatives.”

The four teens were selected from the more than 250 participants who attended the Leadership Series and Summit.  Boasting an average GPA of 3.9 the teens meet the College Scholarship Program eligibility requirements which are based on academic performance, length and involvement in First Tee programs, financial need and commitment to volunteerism.

First Tee College Scholarship Program is made possible by donors and corporate partners who stand behind the program and First Tee’s mission. For more than a decade, PGA TOUR Superstore and PGA TOUR Superstore Chairman Arthur M. Blank have championed First Tee’s mission through charitable and in-kind donations across the country. In September 2020, PGA TOUR Superstore announced a new grant that will help First Tee reach more youth across the U.S. and strengthen its curriculum for teenage participants, including the development of the Leadership Series and Summit.

“We are committed to being a positive influence in our communities and truly believe in the positive impact sports has in developing and supporting youth,” said Dick Sullivan, President & CEO, PGA TOUR Superstore. “We are proud to partner with the First Tee to empower young people with values-based leadership skills that will help them succeed throughout the course of their life. Congratulations Gabriella, Jaylyn, Kyzar and Saloni.”

Photos and broll of the Scholars is available here.

First Tee & Southern Company Present ‘Game Changers Pavilion’ at TOUR Championship

Kids and families invited to an interactive experience inspired by First Tee’s mission at Southern Company’s SO COOL Zone, Aug. 24-28

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL. & ATLANTA, GA.  (August 16, 2022) – First Tee Game Changers Pavilion, an interactive experience inspired by First Tee’s mission to empower young people to become game changers in their communities, will return to the 2022 TOUR Championship, Aug. 24-28, in Southern Company’s SO COOL Zone.

The 1,200 square-foot, air-conditioned space will bring to life what it means to be a game changer and help connect youth attending the tournament to the excitement and personal impact associated with golf and First Tee programs offered throughout the country.  

Highlights of the immersive experience include an “Aim for Greatness” digital video board and our “Make an Impact” paint wall that will provide fans an opportunity to swing a golf club and empower them to embrace challenges and work together to make something beautiful through golf.

Visitors will also be invited to pose as a standard bearer in the “Good Group” photo op and encouraged to post on social media tagging the game changers in their lives who encourage them to be the best version of themselves. Kids are invited to top their visit off with a complimentary SO COOL snow cone.

The First Tee Game Changers Pavilion is being made possible by Southern Company, First Tee’s Education Patron since 2012. Southern Company’s support has helped to expand the First Tee School Program to an additional 1,400 schools in communities across the country reaching more than 700,000 students annually.  

“We are thankful to work with longtime partner Southern Company again this year to host the Game Changers Pavilion at the TOUR Championship,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “This year is special as we celebrate our 25th anniversary of empowering young people. We look forward to using this national platform to inspire and engage even more kids and teens with our game-changing programs.”

As part of the week’s activities, First Tee – Metro Atlanta will bring hundreds of kids from their chapter and after-school community program to experience the TOUR Championship and the Pavilion.

Once again, the TOUR Championship will offer its Youth Ticket Program, which allows for two youth ages 15 and under per ticketed adult to be admitted free of charge to watch the PGA TOUR’s best players compete for the FedExCup.

On the morning of Thursday, Aug. 25, the HOPE Tee Shot will honor two First Tee — Metro Atlanta participants – Haven Ward and Ethan Quitman – in a special ceremony on the first tee just minutes before the first pairing tees off in the TOUR Championship. The tee shot is a symbol and reminder of the hope that continues to build in the East Lake community and throughout Atlanta.

To learn more about First Tee, visit www.firsttee.org.

***

About PGA TOUR First Tee Foundation (“First Tee”)

First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth development organization that is supported by the PGA TOUR. Its mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through the game of golf. In 2022, First Tee celebrates its 25th anniversary and reaching millions of youths through its network of 150 chapters, 10,000 schools and 1,700 youth centers. Headquartered in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA, programs are delivered in all 50 United States and select international locations. President George W. Bush serves as Honorary Chair. 

About Southern Company

Southern Company (NYSE: SO) is a leading energy company serving 9 million customers through its subsidiaries. The company provides clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy through electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, a competitive generation company serving wholesale customers across America, a leading distributed energy infrastructure company, a fiber optics network and telecommunications services. Southern Company brands are known for excellent customer service, high reliability and affordable prices below the national average. For more than a century, we have been building the future of energy and developing the full portfolio of energy resources, including carbon-free nuclear, advanced carbon capture technologies, natural gas, renewables, energy efficiency and storage technology. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation and a net-zero future, Southern Company and its subsidiaries develop the customized energy solutions our customers and communities require to drive growth and prosperity. Our uncompromising values ensure we put the needs of those we serve at the center of everything we do and govern our business to the benefit of our world. Our corporate culture and hiring practices have been recognized nationally by the U.S. Department of Defense, G.I. Jobs magazine,

DiversityInc, Black Enterprise, Fortune’s “World’s Most Admired Companies” list, Forbes and the Women’s Choice Award. To learn more, visit www.southerncompany.com.

Media Contact:
Sara Henika
[email protected]
(904) 881-7398

CDW Gets Behind First Tee as a Trustee, Supporting Its Character-Building Programs  

CDW Supports Chapters, Coaches and Technology Advancements

PONTE VEDRA, FL. and LINCOLNSHIRE, ILL., August 4, 2022 – First Tee®, a youth development organization that helps kids and teens build their strength of character through golf, has welcomed CDW as its newest Trustee.  As a global leader in technology products and services for business, government, and education, CDW’s investment will support essential technology enhancements to meet the evolving needs of the coaches, kids and families that First Tee serves. 

“CDW is proud to stand behind First Tee as a Trustee,” said Anand Rao, chief marketing and digital officer for CDW. “Part of our support will help the organization to modernize its technology. This aligns very well with CDW’s aspiration to achieve equity by closing the digital divide that persists in traditionally underserved communities. In our connected world, CDW believes every person should be able to experience the unlimited possibilities that technology unlocks.” 

First Tee has embarked on a multi-year re-investment to modernize and enhance the organization, including curriculum, brand and technology evolutions. As a Trustee, CDW will support virtual coach trainings to ensure nationally trained coaches are empowered to deliver First Tee’s enhanced character-building curriculum at chapters across the country.  In addition to the trainings, CDW will make a significant impact on a local level through chapter grants in select markets.  These grants will be utilized to support technology advancements and upgrades, including devices, connectivity and security. 

“CDW is helping us break the barrier of connectivity between chapter leaders, coaches, and families,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “The impact of their support will be long lasting as we continue to evolve and reinvest in our character building programs to ensure we reach kids and families in new and innovative ways.” 

The Trustee designation comes following a week of inspirational and empowering golf activities hosted by CDW for First Tee – Greater Detroit participants during the Rocket Mortgage Classic. The week kicked off on Monday with an unveiling of a new Trackman golf simulator at Durfee Innovation Society, a program location for the chapter, followed by a junior clinic on Tuesday featuring PGA TOUR player Gary Woodland among other notable golf personalities.   

“Creating positive, long-term community impact is only possible when we work together,” said Todd Krieger, Interim Chief Executive Officer, First Tee-Greater Detroit “We’re thankful for partners like CDW who are helping us create fun and safe spaces for our kids to build their confidence and further explore their interest in golf and the opportunities it can provide.” 

Launching in 1997, First Tee is celebrating 25 years of enabling kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges. By seamlessly integrating the game of golf with a life skills curriculum, First Tee creates active learning experiences that build inner strength, self-confidence and resilience that kids can carry to everything they do. These character education programs are offered at golf courses, schools and youth centers in all 50 states and at six international locations.    

About PGA TOUR First Tee Foundation (“First Tee”)   
First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth development organization that is supported by the PGA TOUR. Its mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through the game of golf. In 2022, First Tee celebrates its 25th anniversary and reaching millions of youth through its network of 150 chapters, 10,000 schools and 1,700 youth centers. Headquartered in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA, programs are delivered in all 50 United States and select international locations. President George W. Bush serves as Honorary Chair.   

About CDW 

CDW Corporation (Nasdaq: CDW) is a leading multi-brand provider of information technology solutions to business, government, education and healthcare customers in the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada. A Fortune 500 company and member of the S&P 500 Index, CDW was founded in 1984 and employs approximately 14,600 coworkers. For the trailing twelve months ended June 30, 2022, CDW generated Net sales of approximately $23 billion. For more information about CDW, please visit www.CDW.com. 

###      

MEDIA CONTACTS:    

Sara Henika, First Tee     
[email protected]  
904-881-7398

Sara Granack, CDW 
[email protected] 
847-419-7411 

First Tee Leadership Summit in Partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore Kicks off at West Creek Ranch in Montana

Two-week Summit empowers 40 teens to hone leadership skills and identify values while providing dynamic team activities such as whitewater rafting

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. and ATLANTA, (August 3, 2022) – The second-annual First Tee Leadership Summit in partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore has kicked off at PGA TOUR Superstore Chairman and First Tee Board Member Arthur M. Blank’s West Creek Ranch in Montana.

First Tee, a youth development organization that helps kids and teens build their strength of character through golf, and PGA TOUR Superstore is once again holding the summit for 40 teenagers from across the country. Twenty of the selected youths have been participating in the first week from August 1-5, and 20 others will attend from August 8-12.

To start week one, the teens heard from Michael Vick via zoom on “The Power of Decision Making” as well as Lodge Grass Basketball Coach Josh Stewart on using sport as a vehicle for change.

The First Tee Leadership Summit is designed to strengthen leadership skills through dynamic outdoor and team-building activities with the intended purpose of personal growth, education and coming together to make a difference. Daily leadership themes include Building Authentic Relationships, Growing through Challenge, and Building Positive Self Identity.

Set in the unforgettable backdrop of West Creek Ranch, the Summit gives teens the opportunity to participate in outdoor activities including golf, fly fishing, yoga, meditation, horseback riding, archery, whitewater rafting and hiking. The teens are encouraged to apply their learnings through these activities for hands-on professional and personal development. 

“As we begin the second-annual summit this week, we can already see the transformative experience taking place for these remarkable teens,” said Dick Sullivan, President & CEO, PGA TOUR Superstore. “We are thankful to be a part of such a meaningful and impactful event for these motivated teenagers.”

“We honored to host this meaningful week for these participants who will learn skills to take with them for the rest of their lives,” added Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “PGA TOUR Superstore is supporting our mission and we thank Arthur Blank for his commitment to our country’s youth.”

Professional golfer Shasta Averyhardt will be featured the second week.  Shasta is scheduled to speak about pursing your passion and understanding that while your journey may not be a straight path, to embrace the learnings along the way.  

At the conclusion of the Summit, four students will be selected for the First Tee College Scholarship Program and will receive financial support as well as access to mentorship and professional development opportunities throughout their four-year collegiate experience.

To be eligible for the Summit, teens participated in a five-week Leadership Series that was hosted at PGA TOUR Superstore locations across the country this spring. Teens also completed applications and were selected based on character-driving criteria. The diverse group of selected participants – 24 young women and 16 young men – on average have spent seven years in the First Tee program and their average GPA is 3.85.

For more than a decade, PGA TOUR Superstore and Arthur Blank have championed First Tee’s mission through charitable and in-kind donations across the country. In September 2020, PGA TOUR Superstore announced a new grant that will help First Tee reach more youth across the U.S. and strengthen its curriculum for teenage participants, including the development of the Leadership Series, Summit and scholarships.

The Leadership Summit is one of several national opportunities provided by First Tee Headquarters to inspire and equip teens on a deeper level as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities.

Photos are available for download here.

FIRST TEE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT PARTICIPANTS – AUGUST 1-5

Name                                               First Tee Chapter

Braden Bernaldo                    First Tee — Coachella Valley (CA)

Anna Brown                            First Tee — Coastal Carolinas (NC)

Aidan Cervetti                         First Tee — Tampa Bay

Katelyn Chan                         First Tee — Silicon Valley (CA)

Myles Cobb                            First Tee — Greater Chicago

Matthew Cook                         First Tee — Metro Atlanta

Jacie Goodman                     First Tee — Florida Gold Coast

Maleyna Gregorio                  First Tee — Coachella Valley (CA)

Wesley Helmer                       First Tee — Greater San Antonio

Ava Hurtado                           First Tee — Greater Austin

Zara Karim                              First Tee — Greater Washington, DC

Carson Kawabata                 First Tee — Utah

Isabella Lohr                           First Tee — Greater Dallas

Jake Myre                               First Tee — Tucson

Victoria Ocampo Acosta       First Tee — Orange County (CA)

Alanis Santiago Maldonado  First Tee — North Florida

Ethan Selvers                         First Tee — Metropolitan New York

Anay Sigala                            First Tee — Fort Worth

Saloni Somia                          First Tee — Minnesota

Isabella Zamarron                 First Tee — Greater Houston

FIRST TEE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT PARTICIPANTS – AUGUST 8-12

Name                                               First Tee Chapter

Mahek Acharya                     First Tee — Greater Chicago

Dominic Clayton                    First Tee — North Florida

Eliana Damsgard                   First Tee — Minnesota

Saidah DaSilva                       First Tee — Massachusetts

Haady Elneser                        First Tee — Florida Gold Coast

Isabella Herrera                     First Tee — Silicon Valley (CA)

Kyzar Joshi                             First Tee — Massachusetts

Sarah Kohler                           First Tee — Metropolitan New York

James Labukas                     First Tee — Tucson

Joshua Lee                             First Tee — Greater Austin

Elise McGirt                             First Tee — Raritan Valley (NJ)

Gabriella G. Mercado            First Tee — Orange County (CA)

Katherine Miskimen               First Tee — Phoenix

Abi Newell                               First Tee — Greater Houston

Josephine Nguyen                 First Tee — Greater Washington, DC

Carson Platt                           First Tee — Coastal Carolinas (NC)

Jaylyn Remolona                   First Tee — San Francisco

Isabella Rubio                        First Tee — Florida Gold Coast

Jacob Ryan                            First Tee — Central Florida

Isaac Stewart                         First Tee — Central Ohio

***

About PGA TOUR First Tee Foundation (“First Tee”)  

First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth development organization that is supported by the PGA TOUR. Its mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through the game of golf. In 2022, First Tee celebrates its 25th anniversary and reaching millions of youth through its network of 150 chapters, 10,000 schools and 1,700 youth centers. Headquartered in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA, programs are delivered in all 50 United States and select international locations. President George W. Bush serves as Honorary Chair.  

About PGA TOUR Superstore

PGA TOUR Superstore is operated by Golf & Tennis Pro Shop, Inc., a subsidiary of AMB Sports and Entertainment and is headquartered in metro-Atlanta. As the PGA TOUR’s exclusive off-course/off-airport retail partner in North America, PGA TOUR Superstore provides customers with access to the same technology and expertise as card-carrying PGA TOUR pros. All stores are staffed with teaching professionals and have multiple state-of-the-art swing simulators, practice hitting bays, and large putting greens. There is also an in-house club making and repair facility. Along with equipment and accessories, PGA TOUR Superstore has an unmatched selection of men’s, women’s and juniors’ apparel and footwear for golf and tennis. For more information, visit www.pgatoursuperstore.com.

Contacts:
Dana Gordon
BZA PR on behalf of First Tee
[email protected]
856-397-2917

Sara Henika, First Tee
[email protected]g

Seventy-Two First Tee Teens To Attend First Tee Game Changers Academy in Philadelphia 

A RISE ‘Critical Conversation’ featuring Golf Channel’s Damon Hack, 76ers Isaiah Joe and leaders from the sports industry to kick off the weeklong dialogue around issues of race and equality


PONTE VEDRA, FL. (July 18, 2022) − First Tee, a youth development organization that teaches life skills and helps kids and teens build their strength of character through golf, will host the First Tee Game Changers Academy Honoring Joe Louis Barrow, Jr. Philadelphia, July 19-23, 2022. Seventy-two teens from First Tee chapters across the country have been selected for the five-day learning and empowerment academy to explore issues of identity, racism, equity and empathy. 

The week will kick off with a RISE ‘Critical Conversation’ on Tuesday, July 19 featuring Golf Channel’s Damon Hack, PGA TOUR’s Vice-President of Community & Inclusion Marsha Oliver, Villanova University’s Assistant Athletic Director for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion/Director of UNITAS Leashia Lewis and First Tee – Greater Philadelphia’s Assistant Executive Director Rebecca Caimano. Corey Posey, Sr. Director of Programs & Curriculum at RISE will moderate the conversation on the topic of identity and how we talk about race.

RISE, a national nonprofit and leader in the sports community championing social justice and working to improve race relations, will also facilitate engaging and interactive workshops through the week. The workshops will explore a multitude of topics that encourage personal growth and understanding of diversity concepts that foster positive change in the community.  The workshops will be paired with reflections led by our nationally trained First Tee coaches, team building activities such as a scavenger hunt in the city of Philadelphia and golf outings at Walnut Lane Golf Club and Merion Golf Club where they will continue to build upon their connections with other participants from around the country and hear different perspectives from their peers.  

“Diversity, equity and inclusion have been part of the fabric of First Tee since the beginning, and we are proud to provide an event that allows teens from across the country to go deeper on the subject,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “First Tee is about empowering these young people to be game changers in their community. Congratulations to the 72 teens for being selected from a national pool of candidates to represent their First Tee chapter at this event.”  


This Academy is an evolution of First Tee’s longest standing participant event, the Life Skills Academy Honoring Joe Louis Barrow, Jr. The event was enhanced in 2021 to address the challenges teens face in their daily lives and better equips them to build the strength of character to be game changers in their communities. The Academy honors First Tee’s former CEO, Joe Louis Barrow, Jr., who led the organization from 2000 until his retirement in 2017. It’s one of several national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters designed to inspire and encourage high school students on a deeper level as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities.     


The 72 teens attending the Academy can be viewed here. For more information on First Tee, visit www.firsttee.org. 

Featured Participants:   

Natalie McKenzie, First Tee – Greater Seattle  (Bellevue)

  • 17-year-old rising senior boasting a 3.943 GPA  
  • Natalie has been involved with First Tee for twelve years and is the president of First Tee – Greater Seattle’s Junior Advisory Board
  • Plays on varsity girls’ high school golf team  
  • She is the founder and president of the Biotechnology Club at her school where she arranges lectures with local research scientists to expose students to the field 
  • Aspires to be an actuary in the biotechnology field  

“Learning about many different perspectives cultivates a well-rounded understanding of the world around us. This ongoing experience allows individuals to collaborate with others in complementary and eye-opening ways.”

Victoria Farkas, First Tee – Fort Worth  

  • 16-year-old rising junior boasting a 3.8 GPA  
  • Victoria has been involved with First Tee for seven years, where she is the vice president of the Junior Advisory Committee at the chapter.
  • Participates in sports medicine with the football and girls’ soccer teams at her high school  
  • Aspires to play collegiate golf and earn an academic or sports scholarship  

“I’m the only colored golfer at my school and the only Hispanic girl golfer as well. I wish to help Hispanics embrace who they are because we can be that one person that makes a difference and contributes to a richer life experience that others may not get to show.”  

Ethan Selvers, First Tee – Metropolitan New York (Westfield, NJ)

  • 15-year-old rising sophomore boasting a 4.2 GPA  
  • Ethan has been involved with First Tee for seven years 
  • Member of the Small Business Club and the No Place for Hate Committee at his high school 
  • Aspires to have a career in finance  


“Everyone possesses a unique history, and almost everyone I know has long-standing traditions that are unique to their family, religion, or nationality. While our histories and traditions may be different from one another, we all share a common existence and need to learn from one another so that we can utilize our differences to foster innovation.”  


Thalia Hoyos, First Tee – Metropolitan Oklahoma City (Yukon)

  • 15-year-old rising junior boasting a 3.6 GPA  
  • Thalia has been involved with First Tee for six years
  • She is a member of the DECA club at her school, where she organizes community service and fundraising
  • Plays on her high school’s varsity girls’ golf team  
  • Aspires to golf on the LPGA Tour  


“When I moved to Riley, Kansas, I was the only Hispanic girl in my freshman class. Because of my exposure to diverse individuals and keeping an open mind to their viewpoints, I was able to participate in things I would have never thought I would have previously done.”  

__________________________________________________________________

About PGA TOUR First Tee Foundation (“First Tee”) 
First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth development organization that is supported by the PGA TOUR. Its mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through the game of golf. In 2022, First Tee celebrates its 25th anniversary and reaching millions of youth through its network of 150 chapters, 10,000 schools and 1,700 youth centers. Headquartered in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA, programs are delivered in all 50 United States and select international locations. President George W. Bush serves as Honorary Chair.  

40 Teenagers Selected to Attend Second-Annual First Tee Leadership Summit in Partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore

Hosted at PGA TOUR Superstore Owner and Chairman Arthur M. Blank’s West Creek Ranch in Montana, the summit will give the teens opportunities to enjoy dynamic outdoor activities while learning leadership concepts and key values

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL. and ATLANTA, (July 13, 2022) − First Tee, a youth development organization that helps kids and teens build their strength of character through golf, is partnering with PGA TOUR Superstore to hold their second-annual Leadership Summit from August 1-12. Forty teenagers from across the country have been selected to attend this year’s Summit, hosted at PGA TOUR Superstore Chairman and First Tee Board Member Arthur M. Blank’s West Creek Ranch in Montana.

Twenty of the selected youths will participate in the first week from August 1-5, and 20 others will attend from August 8-12.

The diverse group of participants – 24 young women and 16 young men – on average have spent seven years in the First Tee program and their average GPA is 3.85. From an aspiring Urban Planner who wants to ensure underserved communities have access to public facilities to a researcher who wants to cure food allergies, many of the participants already have impressive plans for careers that will improve their communities.

The First Tee Leadership Summit is designed to strengthen leadership skills through dynamic outdoor and team-building activities with the intended purpose of personal growth, education and coming together to make a difference. The curriculum explores concepts such as positive risk-taking, relationship building and identifying character strengths.

Set in the unforgettable backdrop of West Creek Ranch, the Summit will give teens the opportunity to participate in outdoor activities such as golf, fly fishing, yoga, meditation, horseback riding, archery, whitewater rafting and hiking, and will be encouraged to apply their learnings through these activities. 

For the second consecutive year, former NFL standout and motivational speaker Michael Vick will be a featured guest speaker during the first week of the Summit. Professional golfer Shasta Averyhardt will be featured the second week.

At the conclusion of the Summit, four students will be selected for the First Tee College Scholarship Program and will receive financial support as well as access to mentorship and professional development opportunities throughout their four-year collegiate experience.

“In our first year, we saw a group of incredible teenagers participate in a transformative experience which changed their outlook on life and leadership,” said Dick Sullivan, President & CEO, PGA TOUR Superstore. “We are committed to supporting First Tee and to be a part of something impactful and meaningful in the students’ lives.”

“Congratulations to the 40 teens selected for this one-of-a-kind leadership event,” added Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “As we saw last year, the summit provides an opportunity for these talented teens to immerse themselves in personal growth that will help them strengthen their leadership skills while forging deep relationships with peers from across the country. We are once again grateful to Arthur Blank and PGA TOUR Superstore for supporting our mission as we work to empower the next generation through intentional and innovative opportunities like the First Tee Leadership Summit.”

To be eligible for the Summit, teens participated in a five-week Leadership Series that was hosted at PGA TOUR Superstore locations across the country this spring. Teens also completed applications and were selected based on character-driving criteria. 

For more than a decade, PGA TOUR Superstore and Arthur Blank have championed First Tee’s mission through charitable and in-kind donations across the country. In September 2020, PGA TOUR Superstore announced a new grant that will help First Tee reach more youth across the U.S. and strengthen its curriculum for teenage participants, including the development of the Leadership Series, Summit and scholarships.

The Leadership Summit is one of several national opportunities provided by First Tee Headquarters to inspire and equip teens on a deeper level as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities.

FIRST TEE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT PARTICIPANTS – AUGUST 1-5

Name                                                         First Tee Chapter

Braden Bernaldo                        First Tee — Coachella Valley (CA)

Anna Brown                                 First Tee — Coastal Carolinas (NC)

Aidan Cervetti                             First Tee — Tampa Bay

Katelyn Chan                              First Tee — Silicon Valley (CA)

Myles Cobb                                  First Tee — Greater Chicago

Matthew Cook                             First Tee — Metro Atlanta

Jacie Goodman                         First Tee — Florida Gold Coast

Maleyna Gregorio                      First Tee — Coachella Valley (CA)

Wesley Helmer                            First Tee — Greater San Antonio

Ava Hurtado                                First Tee — Greater Austin

Zara Karim                                   First Tee — Greater Washington, DC

Carson Kawabata                     First Tee — Utah

Isabella Lohr                                First Tee — Greater Dallas

Jake Myre                                     First Tee — Tucson

Victoria Ocampo Acosta         First Tee — Orange County (CA)

Alanis Santiago Maldonado  First Tee — North Florida

Ethan Selvers                               First Tee — Metropolitan New York

Anay Sigala                                  First Tee — Fort Worth

Saloni Somia                               First Tee — Minnesota

Isabella Zamarron                     First Tee — Greater Houston

FIRST TEE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT PARTICIPANTS – AUGUST 8-12

Name                                                         First Tee Chapter

Mahek Acharya                          First Tee — Greater Chicago

Dominic Clayton                         First Tee — North Florida

Eliana Damsgard                       First Tee — Minnesota

Saidah DaSilva                            First Tee — Massachusetts

Haady Elneser                              First Tee — Florida Gold Coast

Isabella Herrera                          First Tee — Silicon Valley (CA)

Kyzar Joshi                                   First Tee — Massachusetts

Sarah Kohler                                First Tee — Metropolitan New York

James Labukas                          First Tee — Tucson

Joshua Lee                                   First Tee — Greater Austin

Elise McGirt                                   First Tee — Raritan Valley (NJ)

Gabriella G. Mercado                First Tee — Orange County (CA)

Katherine Miskimen                   First Tee — Phoenix

Abi Newell                                     First Tee — Greater Houston

Josephine Nguyen                     First Tee — Greater Washington, DC

Carson Platt                                 First Tee — Coastal Carolinas (NC)

Jaylyn Remolona                       First Tee — San Francisco

Isabella Rubio                              First Tee — Florida Gold Coast

Jacob Ryan                                  First Tee — Central Florida

Isaac Stewart                               First Tee — Central Ohio

***

About PGA TOUR First Tee Foundation (“First Tee”)  

First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth development organization that is supported by the PGA TOUR. Its mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through the game of golf. In 2022, First Tee celebrates its 25th anniversary and reaching millions of youth through its network of 150 chapters, 10,000 schools and 1,700 youth centers. Headquartered in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA, programs are delivered in all 50 United States and select international locations. President George W. Bush serves as Honorary Chair.  

About PGA TOUR Superstore

PGA TOUR Superstore is operated by Golf & Tennis Pro Shop, Inc., a subsidiary of AMB Sports and Entertainment and is headquartered in metro-Atlanta. As the PGA TOUR’s exclusive off-course/off-airport retail partner in North America, PGA TOUR Superstore provides customers with access to the same technology and expertise as card-carrying PGA TOUR pros. All stores are staffed with teaching professionals and have multiple state-of-the-art swing simulators, practice hitting bays, and large putting greens. There is also an in-house club making and repair facility. Along with equipment and accessories, PGA TOUR Superstore has an unmatched selection of men’s, women’s and juniors’ apparel and footwear for golf and tennis. For more information, visit www.pgatoursuperstore.com.

Contacts:

Dana Gordon
BZA PR on behalf of First Tee
[email protected]
856-397-2917

Sara Henika, First Tee
[email protected]