Collaboration builds and expands upon decades of work in the community
DETROIT – July 30, 2020 – The Children’s Foundation and First Tee announce today a formalized partnership. The Foundation will operate First Tee – Greater Detroit to continue providing valuable programmatic services and develop new tools and methods to fulfill its mission and reach more youth. Consistent with The Children’s Foundation’s mission to improve the health and wellness of children and families in Michigan and beyond, First Tee enables youth in Detroit to build their strength of character through the game of golf. First Tee – Greater Detroit is one of the organization’s first established chapters. For 23 years, First Tee has worked with schools, parents, and the community, to provide active learning experiences that help youth build inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience that they can carry to everything they do. The program seamlessly integrates the game of golf with a life skills curriculum that progresses through seven levels for kids ages five to 18. By partnering with The Children’s Foundation, First Tee will broaden their reach and increase programming to have a lasting impact on children and youth. “The Children’s Foundation is committed to providing programs that offer lifelong skills that will prepare children and young adults for fulfilling, safe and rewarding lives,” said, Lawrence J. Burns, President & CEO. “First Tee has an outstanding history of providing meaningful programs that help empower kids through a lifetime of new challenges and personal growth. It is a great fit.” “Youth today are facing more challenges than ever before, and this powerful collaboration with The Children’s Foundation in the City of Detroit will position us to help reach more kids with our youth development and character-building programs,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “We are excited that this partnership will enable more young people to pursue their dreams and be prepared for the future.” An ongoing strategic initiative of The Children’s Foundation is creating a network of affiliates that are mission consistent with The Foundation. Current affiliations include the Jamie Daniels Foundation, the Paul W. Smith Charities, along with founding partner the Children’s Hospital of Michigan Foundation. The Foundation will now add First Tee to this growing list. “We are adding the First Tee to our initiatives to help more kids take more steps toward a positive future,” said Matt Friedman, Board Chairman at The Children’s Foundation. “We see how this matches our mission and allows to be directly involved with a proven program that Detroit children will enjoy and always remember.”Category: News Releases
Nathan Dryer, 18, donates Make-A-Wish to First Tee-Northern Michigan
Integrity, responsibility and judgement are just a few of the character strengths that the First Tee aims to instill in its participants through the game of golf. And, for Nathan Dryer, a former participant and current assistant coach with the First Tee – Northern Michigan, he intends to pass along a few more – courage, generosity and selflessness.
Nathan first started participating in the First Tee program at the age of 13, when he attended its advanced camp in Harbor Springs, Mich. He took to the program immediately and along with increasing his golf skills, he remembers being even more impressed with the amount of respect and courtesy the coaches showed him and how that increased his confidence and self-esteem. The experience led him to want to give back and eventually become an assistant coach with the local First Tee chapter.
However, life would throw him a curveball along the way. In February 2018, at the age of 16, Nathan was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Hodgkin’s Lymphoma — formerly known as Hodgkin’s disease — is a cancer of the lymphatic system, an integral part of your immune system. Thankfully, recent advances in diagnosis and treatment have helped give people with this disease the chance for a full recovery and, although it is rare to be found in males so young, Nathan and his family were optimistic and started treatment immediately. By June of that same year, Nathan was cancer free and coaching at First Tee throughout the summer.
“It’s not really a job for me,” Nathan said. “I love doing it.”
And that’s why when Nathan was referred to his local Make-A-Wish Foundation in Michigan, his wish wasn’t to go on a dream vacation or meet his favorite athlete or celebrity, it was to give back to a program that has meant so much to him.
“I wish to go, I wish to have, I wish to meet, I wish to be, or I wish to give,” said Make-A-Wish Michigan’s Communications and Public Relations Manager, Christy Schulte. ” Nathan chose to give.”
Wishes to give normally fall in the smallest subset of wishes the Make-A-Wish program grants every year. But give they did. In fact, Nathan asked to give $5,000 to the First Tee – Northern Michigan to offset the lack of fundraising events the local chapter was able to host this year due to COVID-19.
“I saw so many kids change and grow in the First Tee program, and to me, there’s nothing better than that feeling,” Nathan said. “I’m happy to be doing this.”
Nathan’s selflessness and desire to give back are a testament to those around him, and has become fundamental in how he approaches most everything. As he enters his senior year in high school, he plans on joining the Air Force after graduation and serving his community and country in an even bigger way.
His family, friends and First Tee – Northern Michigan couldn’t be prouder.
“I have watched him develop and grow in terms of his character, his confidence, his willingness to take responsibility and his generosity,” said Nathan’s mother Aimee. “I am really proud.”
The program director of the First Tee – Northern Michigan, Logan Paquet, agrees, adding, “He has represented the First Tee in such a humble and gracious way. It is truly outstanding.”
If you feel compelled to support First Tee programming, please donate online here at https://firsttee.org/donate/.
President George W. Bush Surprises First Tee College Scholarship Program Recipients
ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. (June 10, 2020) – Seven high school graduates received a surprise personal congratulatory message today from President George W. Bush, Honorary Chair of First Tee, on their selection into the inaugural class of the First Tee College Scholarship Program. This Class of Scholars includes aspiring doctors, lawyers and entrepreneurs, several of whom will be attending Harvard, Yale and Duke University.
“Your hard work has paid off,” said President George W. Bush, via video message. “The coming years will bring new learning, new friendships, new challenges and new opportunities. Remembering the values you have learned through the First Tee will help you for the years to come. Laura and I join your family and friends and recognize you on this special occasion, and we send our best wishes.”
First Tee’s College Scholarship Class of 2020 includes:
Luke Boldt, First Tee – Coastal Carolinas, East Carolina University
Luke has been an active First Tee participant since he was four years old. In that time, he has earned Ace certification, the highest level in the program, and developed into a leader on and off the golf course. He founded a special needs golf program with his twin brother, “Buddy Tee.” He is an Eagle Scout and played in the 2019 PURE Insurance Championship Impacting the First Tee with Jeff Maggert at Pebble Beach, Calif. Luke plans to major in Public Health at East Carolina University.
Blake Brantley, First Tee – Triad, Yale University
Blake will pursue golf at the collegiate level as a member of the men’s golf team at Yale University where he will major in Economics and Pre-Law. He was the captain and MVP of his high school’s varsity golf team and served as the captain of the Academic Team. He credits First Tee with inspiring him to give back to members of his community and co-founded a charity called “Golf For Life” in which he helped raise $50,000 for a scholarship fund for other First Tee participants. Blake has been a participant at his chapter for eight years, earning Ace certification and volunteering as a coach and mentor to younger participants.
Ricky Lam, First Tee – Tri-Valley, Harvard University
A first-generation college student, Ricky will attend Harvard University majoring in Economics. He aspires to become a leading financial advisor and entrepreneur. He is the Salutatorian of the Oakland Technical Class of 2020 and a National Merit Commended Scholar. He is a Boy Scout and peer tutor for AP Statistic students and plays on the varsity golf team. An Ace participant at First Tee, Ricky volunteers as a coach and mentor to the kids at his chapter.
Kelly Low, First Tee – Fort Worth, University of Texas at Dallas
Kelly has been a First Tee participant for five years, earning Ace certification and volunteering as a junior coach and member of the chapter’s Junior Advisory Board. She is a first-generation U.S. citizen and will attend the University of Texas at Dallas where she will major in computer science. Her passion for science extends beyond the classroom. Kelly was a member of the Rocket Science Club, interned at Lockheed Martin and volunteered at the River Legacy Foundation where she taught children about nature. She is also an AP scholar and member of the varsity golf team.
Nicole Monsalve, First Tee – Miami, Duke University
Nicole is an AP Scholar with Distinction and a National Hispanic Scholar. She will attend Duke University, majoring in Pre-Med, Biology and aspires to be an NFL team doctor. A two-sport athlete in both golf and track, Nicole also spent her time volunteering with the First Tee – Miami High School Prep Bootcamp, providing young athletes help with schoolwork and time management. She also serves as the founder and director of “Box It Tournament,” raising more than $6,000 for a local homeless shelter. Nicole has been a First Tee participant for more than five years, serving as a junior coach and counselor while also an active member of the First Tee Junior Advisory Board.
Sara Rintoul, First Tee – Central Florida, University of Florida
Sara will attend the University of Florida and major in Health Sciences and International Studies. She is a recipient of the National Security Language Initiative for Youth Scholarship, where she traveled to North Africa in 2019 to represent the U.S. and learn Arabic. Her extracurriculars include President of the Model United Nations team, Vice President of We Dine Together Club, promoting inclusion at school, and captain of her varsity golf team. She has been a First Tee participant for seven years attending the Joe Louis Barrow, Jr. Life Skills and Leadership Academy in 2018 where she was awarded the Renee Powell Outstanding Female Leader Award.
Remi Shendell, First Tee – Metropolitan New York, Emory University
Remi aspires to attend medical school and become a doctor for infectious diseases at the CDC or WHO. She will attend Emory University, majoring in Biology and Human Health. Remi is an AP Scholar with honors and was active at her school serving as captain of the golf team and Director of Public Relations for the Girls Learn International chapter, empowering middle and high school students to advocate for human rights, equality and universal education around the world. An Ace First Tee participant, Remi has been involved at First Tee – Metropolitan New York for nine years and serves as an tutor and junior coach.
The First Tee College Scholarship Program extends its impact to alumni by providing support throughout their post-graduate career. Each of the scholars will be 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 scholarships up to $5,000 per year for four years, plus professional development workshops held in-person throughout the year. In addition, scholars will receive assistance with internships and full-time employment placement post-graduation. First Tee is a youth development organization dedicated to providing active learning experiences that empowers young people to build their character through the game of golf.
“We are so proud of the First Tee College Scholarship Class of 2020,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of First Tee. “We are inspired by this remarkable group of young leaders who were selected from an impressive applicant pool of First Tee alumni candidates. We look forward to continuing to empower them to build their confidence and inner-strength as they set out to accomplish their dreams and make a difference in the world.”
The First Tee College Scholarship Program is open to active participants of First Tee chapters graduating from high school who meet the minimum requirements. Applications were received from participants at 32 chapters in 24 states across the nation. Following an online application process, 10 finalists were selected by a committee for one-on-one interviews. Applicants were considered based on financial need, academic performance, chapter involvement, volunteerism, community service and other criteria.
President George W. Bush has been First Tee’s Honorary Chair since 2009. He succeeded his father, President George H.W. Bush, who served as First Tee’s Honorary Chair since the organization’s inception in 1997.
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About First Tee
First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a nonprofit youth development organization whose 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 its inception in 1997, First Tee has expanded to reach more than 3.5 million young people annually on golf courses, in elementary schools and at youth centers. Its headquarters are in St. Augustine, Florida, USA, with programs in all 50 United States and select international locations.
First Tee Response to COVID-19
When we think of First Tee’s mark on the world, what comes to my mind is putting kids and their families first, building confidence despite new challenges, and perseverance. Our values are as important today as ever, and your support is what allows us to continue.
It may go without saying, but first and foremost our collective priority is and will remain the safety of our network. From participants and their families to 20,000+ adults who support them throughout First Tee we are committed to putting their safety first.
We are proud of our network for being agile, creative and innovative during this unprecedented time. While we have had to cancel or postpone in-person trainings, participant events and work-related travel, we are working from home and have ramped up our support of the network through:
- Enhanced communications and COVID-19 related webinars
- Facilitating peer to peer interaction and support through internal channels
- Creating and providing digital resources to chapters and coaches
- Sharing uplifting content and updates from around the network through our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter
First Tee Kicks Off Nationwide Summer Registration at THE PLAYERS, Engages Kids & Fans Through On-Site Experiences
ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. (Feb. 27, 2020) – First Tee, a youth development organization providing active learning experiences to help young people build character through the game of golf, will kick off summer registration around the country and showcase the impact of its program as a featured charity during THE PLAYERS Championship, March 10-15, 2020.
Highlights for the week include:
- The 17th Hole Challenge presented by Morgan Stanley, Grant Thornton and Optum: First Tee is about building character and using that inner-strength to take on new challenges in life. Throughout the week, guests can demonstrate their self-confidence on a replica of the famed par-3 17th at TPC Sawgrass. Fans will have the option to purchase a third shot or a First Tee Fast Pass, with proceeds benefiting First Tee of North Florida. Located in THE PLAYERS Welcome Experience at the Nicklaus entry, high-profile influencers and celebrities are known to stop by to take the challenge.
- Youth Clinic with PGA TOUR pros: On Monday, March 9, a youth clinic will take place with participants from the First Tee of North Florida and PGA TOUR professionals, in conjunction with Nike, at the 17th Hole Challenge. Media are invited for the purposes of covering the event and must apply for tournament credentials by February 28 at pgatourmedia.com.
- Girls Golf Mentoring Event: On Tuesday, March 10, Morgan Stanley – one of THE PLAYERS Championship’s Proud Partners – will host girls from First Tee of North Florida in a private event focused on mentorship and financial literacy with LPGA professional Cheyenne Woods and local Morgan Stanley leaders. Media are invited for the purposes of covering the event and must apply for tournament credentials by February 28 at pgatourmedia.com.
- Featured Charity of the Day: On Wednesday, March 11, First Tee will give away free bag tags to the first 5,000 fans and will be featured onsite throughout the tournament and on THE PLAYERS digital channels.
- Cola’s Reverse Vending Machine Benefiting First Tee: Fans can demonstrate their commitment to the next generation by recycling all plastic bottles throughout the week in Coca-Cola’s ‘reverse vending machine’ in Stadium Village. With each recycled item, Coca-Cola will automatically donate to First Tee of North Florida.
- Featured First Tee Participants and Alumni at THE PLAYERS: Throughout the week, First Tee of North Florida participants will be experiencing the event, many for the first time, and First Tee, First Tee of North Florida and THE PLAYERS will spotlight their engagement on digital channels. Bios and quotes are below.
First Tee Launches Enhanced College Scholarship Program
New national program extends First Tee’s impact to alumni, providing support focused on personal growth, mentorship and financial assistance
ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. (Feb. 18, 2020) – First Tee, a youth development organization providing active learning experiences to help young people build character through the game of golf, is enhancing its national scholarship program to include deeper support for alumni. First Tee College Scholarship Program will now provide selected alumni entering college with financial assistance, professional development workshops and substantial mentoring throughout their college experience.
One of the key components of the First Tee College Scholarship Program is pairing scholars with a dedicated, trained adult mentor who will help encourage and guide them throughout the college experience, including in-person meet ups. The program also provides scholarships up to $5,000 per year for four years, plus professional development workshops. Scholars will also receive assistance with internships and full-time employment placement post-graduation.
“At First Tee, we want to inspire and empower every young person we reach to set goals and begin pursuing them,” said First Tee President Greg McLaughlin. “Providing an enhanced and more robust College Scholarship Program furthers our efforts to motivate young people to stay in our programs, and support alumni as they move through the college process. Education remains incredibly valuable in today’s competitive world, and we want to advance First Tee alumni through this program.”
The program is open to active participants of First Tee chapters graduating from high school and planning to attend college. Applicants will be considered based on financial need, academic performance, chapter involvement, volunteerism and other criteria. Applications are now being accepted. The scholars will be announced at the end of May.
For more information on the First Tee College Scholarship Program, visit firsttee.org.
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About First Tee
First Tee is a nonprofit youth development organization whose 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 its beginning in 1997, First Tee has expanded to reach millions of young people on golf courses, in schools and at youth centers. First Tee is headquartered in St. Augustine, Florida, USA, with programs in all 50 United States and select international locations.
Clemson University to Host Inaugural First Tee National Championship
72 First Tee teens to compete for Tattersall Cup in elite tournament at The Walker Course on June 21-26
ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. (Jan. 9, 2020) – First Tee announces the first-ever First Tee National Championship will be held June 21-26, 2020 at Clemson University. The event will bring together First Tee’s elite players for an opportunity to showcase how the program has helped build the strength of character needed to play at the collegiate or next level. The winners of each girls and boys’ division will be awarded with the Tattersall Cup named after First Tee Trustee, Fred Tattersall. Each winner will earn an exemption into the PGA TOUR Champions’ PURE Insurance Championship Impacting the First Tee held at Pebble Beach Golf Links September 18-20, 2020. “We are excited to announce the First Tee National Championship and play our inaugural event at Clemson University,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee president. “Our goal is to provide each participant with a college level experience both on and off the golf course. We are thankful to longtime First Tee supporter Fred Tattersall for creating this opportunity for the young people in our chapter network.” First Tee National Championship will be held annually at various college campuses around the nation providing First Tee participants the opportunity to network with participants from across the country and take in the “college experience” including dorm-living, campus tours and more. Clemson University’s The Walker Course is set to host the inaugural Championship. Applications for First Tee participants will open January 28. Applicants will be selected based on their golf skill, competitive golf experience and handicap. First Tee is a youth development organization dedicated to helping young people build character through the game of golf. The National Championship is one of more than 10 national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters to empower and motivate teens as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities. For more information on the tournament and First Tee, visit www.firsttee.org. *** About First Tee First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a nonprofit youth development organization whose 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 its beginning in 1997, First Tee has expanded to reach millions of young people on golf courses, in elementary schools and at other youth-serving locations. Its headquarters are in St. Augustine, Florida, USA, with programs in all 50 United States and select international locations.PGA of Australia launches First Tee of Australia ahead of the Presidents Cup
MELBOURNE, Australia (10 December 2019) – Former PGA TOUR Commissioner and the Vice-Chairman of First Tee Tim Finchem and CEO of PGA of Australia Gavin Kirkman announced today the launch of the First Tee of Australia. Presidents Cup and its Global Partner, Citi, helped launch the efforts through the Citi 44 Million Yard Challenge, an interactive global experience for fans to drive a golf ball around the world while driving toward the opportunity to bring the First Tee chapter to Australia.
CLICK HERE to download video, interviews and CLICK HERE for photos from the event.
The chapter will be managed by PGA of Australia and will engage with local community groups to reach underserved teenagers. Initially, the program will be offered at three program locations in Melbourne with plans to expand throughout the country in the next several years. Coaches are being provided with formal training to introduce the teens to the First Tee’s curriculum with an emphasis on personal development and understanding of core values and life skills, using golf as the platform.
“The chapter will utilise the sport of golf to teach the First Tee’s core values of honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, judgement and courtesy,” CEO of PGA of Australia Gavin Kirkman said. “We are proud that our PGA Members have been selected to be the program deliverers of the First Tee in Australia and I look forward to witnessing youth develop under the mentorship of PGA of Australia Professionals.”
This will be the sixth international location for First Tee, a youth development organization that seamlessly integrates the game of golf with a life skills curriculum.
“Already such an exciting week for golf in Australia with the Presidents Cup’s return to Melbourne, we are thrilled about this formation of a First Tee chapter in Australia and the opportunity to teach the game of golf and its core values to countless youth in the future,” said the First Tee Vice-Chairman Tim Finchem. “We are extremely grateful for Presidents Cup Global Partner Citi, the First Tee and the PGA of Australia for their support in bringing this initiative to life throughout Melbourne and all of Australia.”
Leading up to the announcement and this week’s Presidents Cup, fans participated in the Citi 44 Million Yard Challenge to collectively drive a golf ball 44 million yards – the length it takes to circle the globe – for the 2019 Presidents Cup, while driving towards the launch of the First Tee of Australia. The Challenge included an interactive web-based game, a mobile game and a simulator that was placed throughout Australia and New York.
“Citi is proud to be the presenting sponsor of the First Tee chapter in Australia,” said Guy Matthews, Head of Corporate Affairs for Citi Australia and New Zealand.
“We see this is as a legacy of our partnership with the Presidents Cup here in Melbourne. The values of the First Tee are well-aligned with our philanthropic commitments to support young people as they gain the skills to succeed in their transition from education to employment.”
The launch featured a variety of First Tee golf activities at Victoria Golf Club being demonstrated by 2019 Women’s PGA Champion Hannah Green, two-time Presidents Cup member Nick O’Hern and former AFL footballer and avid golfer Brendon Goddard.
“The First Tee program is great and allows the game of golf to be the vehicle to instill morals into young people like respect and sportsmanship that are so valuable in day-to-day life,” said Brendon Goddard. “The greatest coaches I have had in football are the ones that not only made me a better footballer, but a better person.”
“When I grew up playing I learned a lot about myself being at the golf club, learning values from those around me,” said Hannah Green. “I think that First Tee is a great program aimed at highlighting these life values. I think it’s great that First Tee is coming to Australia.”
First Tee has been in existence for 22 years, primarily in the United States, and has grown to approximately 150 chapters and more than 1,200 program locations including Australia, Canada, Japan, Korea, Mexico and Morocco. Since its inception in 1997, First Tee has impacted more than 15 million young people through its character-building programs on golf courses, in schools and at youth-serving locations.
For more information on First Tee, visit firsttee.org.
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About First Tee
First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a nonprofit youth development organization whose 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 its beginning in 1997, First Tee has expanded to reach millions of young people on golf courses, in elementary schools and at other youth-serving locations. Its headquarters are in St. Augustine, Florida, USA, with programs in all 50 United States and select international locations.
USGA Boosts Its Support of First Tee with $100,000 in Grant Funding
The grants, which have totaled more than $26 million since 1997, will leave a lasting impact on 25 communities delivering First Tee programs in and around USGA championships and Allied Golf Associations
PINEHURST, N.C. (Aug. 12, 2019) – Thanks to a $100,000 donation from the United States Golf Association (USGA), First Tee chapters across the nation are receiving grants to further their efforts to introduce life skills and the game of golf to more young people. The grants are a continuation of the support the USGA has provided to First Tee for more than 20 years, and one of a series of initiatives on which the organizations have collaborated in 2019.
The grants are being dispersed to 25 chapters located in or around USGA championship locations and Allied Golf Associations as part of the organization’s strategy to leave a positive, lasting impact on local host communities.
The announcement was made today at the USGA’s 119th U.S. Amateur Championship in Pinehurst, N.C. Participants from the First Tee of the Sandhills, one of the USGA grant recipients, were on hand with the chapter’s Executive Director Courtney Stiles to share the announcement alongside USGA CEO Mike Davis.
“We are so grateful to the USGA and organizations like this, as it is these partnerships that allow us to broaden our impact in communities across the country, engaging young people who we may not have otherwise reached,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee president. “Together, we will inspire youth for years to come, engaging them in the sport and helping them to become leaders in their communities.”
“We are proud to see our First Tee grant funding directly benefit those communities that welcome us throughout the year and embrace the spirit of what a USGA championship represents,” Davis added. “The USGA is committed to making a difference in our host communities, and we are excited to see the long-term impact these grants will have in welcoming more junior golfers to the game, and to inspire them to play it for a lifetime.”
The USGA has supported the First Tee since its inception in 1997, providing more than $26 million in grants to the organization. Their shared commitment to bringing more young people to the game was highlighted this past June during the 119th U.S. Open Championship at Pebble Beach, where the two organizations debuted the Junior Experience Featuring First Tee. The on-site interactive experience connected youths with the excitement and values associated with golf and First Tee programs offered throughout the country.
With the USGA’s support, First Tee chapters are reaching more than 136,000 young people annually at more than 1,200 program locations, with support from 25,000 volunteers. Additionally, First Tee has been introduced to more than 10,000 schools and youth centers reaching millions of additional kids through these programs.
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About First Tee
First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a nonprofit youth development organization whose 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 its beginning in 1997, First Tee has expanded to reach millions of young people on golf courses, in elementary schools and at other youth-serving locations. Its headquarters are in St. Augustine, Florida, USA, with programs in all 50 United States and select international locations.
About the USGA
The USGA celebrates, serves and advances the game of golf. Founded in 1894, we conduct many of golf’s premier professional and amateur championships, including the U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open. With The R&A, we govern the sport via a global set of playing, equipment and amateur status rules. Our operating jurisdiction for these governance functions is the United States, its territories and Mexico. The USGA Handicap System is utilized in more than 40 countries and our Course Rating System covers 95 percent of the world’s golf courses, enabling all golfers to play on an equitable basis. The USGA campus in Liberty Corner, New Jersey, is home to the Association’s Research and Test Center, where science and innovation are fueling a healthy and sustainable game for the future. The campus is also home to the USGA Golf Museum, where we honor the game by curating the world’s most comprehensive archive of golf artifacts. To learn more, visit usga.org.
Media Contacts:
Danny Vohden, USGA
(908) 326-1217, [email protected]
Sara Henika, First Tee
(904) 940-4341, [email protected]
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About First Tee
First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a nonprofit youth development organization whose 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 its beginning in 1997, First Tee has expanded to reach millions of young people on golf courses, in elementary schools and at other youth-serving locations. Its headquarters are in St. Augustine, Florida, USA, with programs in all 50 United States and select international locations.
About the USGA
The USGA celebrates, serves and advances the game of golf. Founded in 1894, we conduct many of golf’s premier professional and amateur championships, including the U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open. With The R&A, we govern the sport via a global set of playing, equipment and amateur status rules. Our operating jurisdiction for these governance functions is the United States, its territories and Mexico. The USGA Handicap System is utilized in more than 40 countries and our Course Rating System covers 95 percent of the world’s golf courses, enabling all golfers to play on an equitable basis. The USGA campus in Liberty Corner, New Jersey, is home to the Association’s Research and Test Center, where science and innovation are fueling a healthy and sustainable game for the future. The campus is also home to the USGA Golf Museum, where we honor the game by curating the world’s most comprehensive archive of golf artifacts. To learn more, visit usga.org.
Media Contacts:
Danny Vohden, USGA
(908) 326-1217, [email protected]
Sara Henika, First Tee
(904) 940-4341, [email protected] First Tee and Charitybuzz Host Annual Auction Aug. 6-22, Offering Incredible Golf and Lifestyle Experiences to Benefit the Organization’s Youth Sports Programs
More than $1 million raised for First Tee through its multi-year Charitybuzz partnership
AUGUSTINE, Florida (Aug. 6, 2019) – National youth development organization First Tee is partnering with leading auction site for cause Charitybuzz to auction off access to the world’s most prestigious golf courses and other lifestyle experiences. The auction is live at Charitybuzz.com/TheFirstTee through Thursday, August 22. First Tee chapters from across the country are participating in this year’s auction, raising funds for programs introducing youth to life and leadership skills through the game of golf. Experiences for auction to benefit First Tee include:- Round of Golf with Bill Murray and Scott Simpson at Pebble Beach Golf Links
- Notable golf memorabilia including 2018 Ryder Cup flag signed by players and captains, and Limited Edition Nike Air Zoom Victory Tour shoe signed by Rory McIlroy
- Rounds of golf at legendary courses including Pinehurst, Muirfield and Winged Foot
- Dream golf trips to Ireland and Pebble Beach
Nearly 100 Teens to Participate in First Tee’s National Joe Louis Barrow, Jr. Life Skills & Leadership Academy in Boise
Two local participants from First Tee of Idaho will join 94 other junior golfers at national youth leadership event on July 24-30
BOISE, Idaho (July 23, 2019) – Nearly 100 participants from 63 First Tee chapters around the country will converge in Boise this week to participate in the Joe Louis Barrow, Jr. Life Skills & Leadership Academy. Two local participants from the First Tee of Idaho, Devon LaPrath and Chandler Curtis, are among the teen golfers who will participate in the First Tee’s national youth leadership event on July 24-30. Hosted by First Tee headquarters, the academy recognizes and rewards exceptional teen participants who are prepared to build upon leadership skills introduced through programs at First Tee chapters. Top coaches in the First Tee’s network deliver the golf and leadership instruction that incorporate the First Tee’s values and life skills in a concentrated, week-long event. Participants build skills preparing them for success beyond the golf course. They will experience championship golf, career exploration, dorm living at Boise State University and meeting other teens from around the country sharing golf as their common bond. Ben Thomas, Board President of the First Tee of Idaho, said “The Idaho chapter is honored and privileged to be selected to host the Life Skills and Leadership Academy for the next two years. We are looking forward to showcasing our great community to the participants and giving them the opportunity to experience playing at two wonderful golf courses – Ridgecrest Golf Club and Banbury Golf Club.” LaPrath, 16, is a sophomore at Middleton High School in Middleton. Active in First Tee of Idaho for three years, he volunteers at Rake Up Boise as well as a local soup kitchen. LaPrath also served as a standard bearer at the Korn Ferry Tour’s Boise Open. Curtis, 15, is a sophomore at Bishop Kelly High School in Boise. Active at the local First Tee chapter for nine years, he actively participates at First Tee of Idaho Day and the Idaho Food Bank. Outside of the chapter, Curtis volunteers his time as a member of the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council and is a member of the Summerwind Skippers Competitive Jump Rope Team. First Tee is a youth development organization dedicated to helping youth build character through the game of golf. Through in-school and after-school programs, it helps shape young people’s lives by reinforcing values like integrity, respect, and perseverance embedded in the game of golf. First Tee of Idaho delivers programs at eight golf courses , numerous elementary schools and youth centers across the state, reaching more than 10,000 youth each year. For more information or to learn more about First Tee, visit www.firsttee.org. *** About First Tee of Idaho First Tee of Idaho http://www.firstteeidaho.org) is a nonprofit youth development organization whose 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. First Tee of Idaho has expanded to reach thousands of young people annually on golf courses, in elementary schools and at other youth-serving locations. First Tee of Idaho is one of 150 First Tee chapters across the United States and select international locations. Media Contact: Brittany Wynne, [email protected], (904) 940-4043Seventy-Eight First Tee Teens Selected for PGA TOUR Champions PURE Insurance Championship Impacting The First Tee at Pebble Beach
Jack Nicklaus, PGA TOUR players and Golf Channel hosts surprise teens on Golf Channel’s “Morning Drive”
ST. AUGUSTINE, Florida (July 3, 2019) – First Tee and PGA TOUR Champions announced today the 78 First Tee participants selected to play in the 2019 PURE Insurance Championship Impacting The First Tee. The 16th annual event, hosted by the Monterey Peninsula Foundation, will be held September 24-29 at Pebble Beach Golf Links and Poppy Hills Golf Course in Pebble Beach, California, and will be televised internationally on Golf Channel. The PURE Insurance Championship Impacting The First Tee is the only event of its kind where 78 First Tee teenagers from across the country are paired up with 78 PGA TOUR Champions players and 156 amateurs during an official PGA TOUR Champions tournament. Ranging in ages from 14 to 18, the First Tee participants compete for the Pro-Junior Team title. Representing 27 states, participants were selected by a national panel of judges based on their understanding and application of the values and life skills learned through First Tee’s programs, as well as their playing ability. The full junior field was revealed live on Golf Channel’s “Morning Drive” today, including a video of World Golf Hall of Fame Member Jack Nicklaus surprising Stephen Ma from First Tee of Central Ohio. Other surprises by PGA TOUR players and Golf Channel hosts had been recorded over the last month and aired today as part of the PURE Insurance Championship announcement. “We are proud to continue our involvement with this prestigious event and help support the great work of the Monterey Peninsula Foundation and First Tee,” said Katherine Frattarola, Chief Marketing Officer of the PURE Group of Insurance Companies. “The impact this event has on the incredible young men and women from the First Tee makes this sponsorship tremendously rewarding for our entire team.” This year’s field of professionals will include World Golf Hall of Fame Members Bernhard Langer, Mark O’Meara, Vijay Singh and Retief Goosen, as well as defending champion and recent KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship winner Ken Tanigawa. Clint Eastwood serves as chairman of the PURE Insurance Championship. Play will be conducted on Pebble Beach Golf Links and Poppy Hills Golf Course on Friday and Saturday, with the final round contested solely at Pebble Beach Golf Links on Sunday, where 23 First Tee juniors will compete based on their 36-hole performance. The tournament will crown one male and one female First Tee Junior Champion on Sunday. Nearly 1,000 teens from First Tee have played in the PURE Insurance Championship, experiencing the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet, play and be mentored by PGA TOUR Champions players and amateurs in the field. “Congratulations to the 78 participants who have been selected to play and represent First Tee on a national stage,” said First Tee President Greg McLaughlin. “Their hard work and commitment to academic, social and emotional development through our programs has secured this opportunity. Thank you to our partners − PURE Insurance, PGA TOUR Champions, Pebble Beach Resorts, Poppy Hills Golf Course, Monterey Peninsula Foundation and Golf Channel − for their commitment to young people and helping us provide this opportunity to these deserving teens.” First Tee is a youth development organization dedicated to helping young people build character through the game of golf. The PURE Insurance Championship is one of 10 national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters to encourage and motivate kids as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities. For more information on the tournament, visit PUREInsuranceChampionship.com. To learn more about First Tee, visit TheFirstTee.org. View First Tee participants selected to play in the 2019 PURE Insurance Championship *** About First Tee First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a nonprofit youth development organization whose 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 its beginning in 1997, First Tee has expanded to reach millions of young people on golf courses, in elementary schools and at other youth-serving locations. Its headquarters are in St. Augustine, Florida, USA, with programs in all 50 United States and select international locations. About Monterey Peninsula Foundation Monterey Peninsula Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization which donates funds from the proceeds of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am on the PGA TOUR and the PURE Insurance Championship Impacting The First Tee, a PGA TOUR Champions tournament. The Foundation focuses on improving the quality of life in Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties. www.attpbgolf.com www.pureinsurancechampionship.com About PURE Privilege Underwriters Reciprocal Exchange (PURE) is a member-owned reciprocal insurer dedicated to creating an exceptional experience for responsible high net worth individuals and families. PURE provides customizable coverage for high-value homes, automobiles, jewelry, art, personal liability, watercraft, flood, fraud and cyber fraud to more than 75,000 responsible, high net worth families throughout the U.S. Inspired by some of the finest policyholder-owned companies, PURE emphasizes alignment of interests and transparency. PURE’s low cost of capital, careful member selection and proactive risk management all contribute to highly competitive rates. In return for a fee, PURE Risk Management, LLC acts as Attorney-in-Fact for PURE. PURE membership is subject to an executed Subscriber’s Agreement & Power of Attorney. For more information or to find a local broker, visit pureinsurance.com. You can follow PURE on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram. About PGA TOUR Champions PGA TOUR Champions is a membership organization of professional golfers age 50 and older, including 35 members of the World Golf Hall of Fame. The Tour’s mission is to provide financial opportunities for its players, entertain and inspire its fans, deliver substantial value to its partners, create outlets for volunteers to give back and generate significant charitable and economic impact in tournament communities. In 2019, the PGA TOUR Champions schedule includes 27 tournaments across the United States, Scotland and Canada, with purses totaling more than $56 million. The Charles Schwab Cup, which includes the Regular Season and the Charles Schwab Cup Playoffs, is used to determine the season-long champion. All events are televised in the United States, with most receiving complete coverage on Golf Channel, the exclusive cable-television partner of PGA TOUR Champions. Internationally, telecasts air in excess of 190 countries and territories, reaching more than 350 million potential households. Follow PGA TOUR Champions online at PGATOUR.com, at facebook.com/PGATOURChampions, on Twitter @ChampionsTour and on Instagram @championstour.