As the calendar flipped to 2025, it marks the 25th Anniversary of First Tee – Greater San Antonio’s (FTGSA) impact in the community and five years since joining the organization. It’s the perfect time to reflect on the organization’s growth and impact as well as look to the future.
In 2000, First Tee – Greater San Antonio hosted its first programming class with 25 participants. Since inception, FTGSA has served over 400,000 youth through our life skills programming, and the community and school outreach programs. Our mission is to build character, confidence, and resiliency through the inherent values of the game of golf. Our vision is to provide low or no-cost life skills programming for all young people, especially those who may not have access or the opportunity to experience this great game.
Since 2020, FTGSA’s impact in the community has grown over 28 times through our various program offerings.
- Life skills participation has grown by 85% and program locations throughout San Antonio increased by 61%. True to our mission, life skills programming remains subsidized by 60% for all participants, ensuring that no child is turned away due to financial need, and all necessary equipment is provided.
- Our Community Program partners with organizations like the Boys & Girls Club and school field trips, grew from just 40 students in 2020 to over 1,100 in 2024. These programs are provided at no cost to the students.
- Our School Program, which was halted by COVID, was resurrected and now more than 21,000 students at 62 SAISD elementary and middle schools are taught First Tee Life Skills programming during their PE classes.
- Through outreach and intentional programming, FTGSA has seen an increase in the number of girls and minority participants, which reflects a more diverse group engaging in the sport. Nearly 89% of our participants are diverse and 37% of our participants are female. According to the National Golf Foundation (2023) 25% of the junior golf population are non-Caucasian, showcasing our commitment to expanding access and inclusivity.
FTGSA success is made possible by the generous support of donors who believe in our mission. Our revenues have almost doubled in the last five years, enabling our programs to expand 28 times. Our dedicated team and nationally trained coaches, now numbering 36 (up from 14 in 2020), deliver over 120 life skills sessions annually, building character and resilience on and off the course. Volunteers, including over 80 individuals and First Tee junior coaches, are the backbone of our organization, creating a safe and fun learning environment. Guided by our board of directors’ leadership and expertise, we continue to grow and adapt. Their leadership, engagement, and passion have helped transform our organization.
There’s no better way to celebrate our 25th year anniversary than our 30-year lease extension. Planning is currently underway to create a Master Plan, including practice facility upgrades, building renovations, and enhanced program offerings. As a proud member of Brackenridge Park, these enhancements will provide an even better experience for our participants and the community.
This year, we celebrate our legacy while looking forward to an exciting future. With the continued support of our incredible team, donors, coaches, volunteers, parents, and participants, we will strengthen the character of our community through golf and make a lasting impact in the lives of youth and their families.
Cheers,
Carrie J. Kimbell