Category: Blog

How to balance structured activities and unstructured time this summer 

A guide for parents navigating the summer schedule 

Summer arrives with the best intentions. You want your child to grow, make memories and maybe even get a head start on something meaningful. So you sign them up — camp here, lessons there, a program or two to keep things moving. Before long, the calendar is full and summer feels a lot like the school year with warmer weather. 

Sound familiar? 

Finding the right balance between structured activities and free time is one of the most common challenges parents face when summer rolls around. There’s no perfect formula, but there is a lot of research that can help. 

The case for structure 

Structured activities give kids something school schedules naturally provide: routine, accountability and a sense of purpose. When children commit to a team, program or class, they practice showing up even when they don’t feel like it. They learn to follow through. They build relationships with coaches and mentors who see them differently than their parents do, and that outside perspective can be incredibly powerful. 

Programs like First Tee give kids a structured environment where they’re not just learning a sport but developing the habits and character traits that carry into every other area of their lives. 

Why unstructured time matters just as much 

Here’s what the research consistently shows: Kids need boredom. Not as a punishment, but as a gift. 

When children have unstructured time — time without a screen, schedule or adult directing the action — they’re forced to use their imaginations, negotiate with peers, solve problems on their own and discover what they enjoy. This kind of self-directed play is where creativity lives.  

Child development experts note that free play is essential to healthy cognitive and emotional development. When every hour is scheduled, kids miss out on the chance to just be – a surprisingly important skill. 

Finding the balance that works for your family 

To keep kids engaged in youth sports, Project Play advocates that organized instruction, structured play and unstructured play should work in tandem. While First Tee lessons provide the first two components, a family golf outing or on-course round with friends can help nurture your child’s love for the game. 

There’s no universal ratio of structured to unstructured time that works for every child or every family. But here are a few questions to help you find yours: 

Is your child energized or drained after their activities? The right structured program should challenge your child, but it shouldn’t leave them depleted every day. If they’re consistently exhausted or resistant, it may be worth reassessing the schedule. 

Do they have time to be bored? Boredom is uncomfortable at first. Kids will tell you there’s nothing to do. Give it 20 minutes. Often, that’s when the best stuff happens — the backyard fort, the invented game, the book they finally picked up. 

Are they driving any of it? Summer is a natural time to let kids have more say in how they spend their time. If kids have a say in which activities they want to continue or try and when they want downtime, it builds the kind of autonomy that develops into good decision-making over time. 

Is there room for spontaneity? If your childcare needs allow, leave some white space in the calendar. The best summer memories often happen unplanned. 

The goal isn’t to maximize your child’s summer. It’s to give them a summer that helps them grow in skill, character and their sense of self. 

That means some structure, some commitment, some challenge, and yes, some long afternoons with nowhere to be and nothing to do. 

Learn more about First Tee programming near you. 

First Tee announces 23 new Scholars selected for academic excellence, leadership and service

In addition to financial support, First Tee Scholars receive mentorship and professional development opportunities

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. (June 2, 2026) – Youth development organization First Tee is proud to announce its incoming class of Scholars, welcoming 23 exceptional young leaders into the First Tee College Scholarship Program. Selected from chapters across the country, the incoming Scholars represent the organization’s highest ideals, demonstrating outstanding commitment to academics, community service and the values they developed through years of First Tee participation. 

Young men and women from 20 First Tee chapters comprise this year’s Scholar class, including three collegiate golfers and four first-generation college students. They will arrive at universities across the country this fall, studying subjects including engineering, sports management, business, biology and more. On average, incoming Scholars have spent an average of 9.3 years with First Tee and boast a weighted GPA of 4.3. 

“The exceptional participants who make up this year’s Scholar class represent the very best of what First Tee stands for: a relentless commitment to excellence in the classroom, in their communities and to their character,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “The First Tee College Scholarship Program exists to ensure that these exceptional young leaders have the resources they need to reach their full potential, and we are grateful to the donors and corporate partners who make this program possible.” 

New Scholars will be invited to attend a Pre-College Retreat in Ponte Vedra Beach this summer, where they will meet their peers, network with professionals and attend workshops to help them prepare for their first semester of college. 

Launched in 2020, the First Tee College Scholarship Program provides selected alumni with financial support, mentorship and professional development opportunities designed to help them succeed in college and beyond. Scholars participate in workshops, gain access to an expansive professional network, and receive ongoing guidance as they navigate their college journeys.  

Candidates are selected based on academic achievement, dedication to service and commitment to their First Tee chapter and community. The program reflects First Tee’s broader mission of using golf to teach young people life skills that develop character, extending well beyond the course. 

In April, leaders from Chevron, a supporter of the First Tee College Scholarship program, surprised Carlie Matengula (left) and Aarya Shewale (center) with invitations to the program during The Chevron Championship.

The full list of incoming First Tee College Scholars is below. 

Name Chapter University Major 
Riley Albright Central Ohio Ohio State University Sports Management 
Natalie Chen Silicon Valley Stanford University Business 
Noelle Gagnon New Hampshire Connecticut College International Relations 
Lilyanna Hathaway Colorado Rocky Mountains Colorado Mesa University Marketing 
Justin Hsieh Raritan Valley Rutgers University Aerospace Engineering 
Nick Huang Greater Seattle Northwestern University Electrical Engineering 
Riley Jamison Tennessee Palm Beach Atlantic University Communications 
Joshua Ju Tennessee Vanderbilt University Pre-Medicine 
Carlie Matengula Greater Austin Howard University Political Science 
Jasmine McGhee Greater Chicago Cornell University Psychology 
Colby Palacio Raritan Valley Rutgers University Accounting 
Ishani Patel Metropolitan Oklahoma City University of Oklahoma Biomedical Engineering 
Kailyn Peterson Idaho Boise State University Nursing 
Jack Polansky Greater San Antonio Berry College Environmental Science 
Lula Rivera Greater Wilmington North Carolina State University Engineering 
Alexis Roth Greater Charlotte University of South Carolina Sports Management 
Isabella Russo Florida Gold Coast University of Central Florida Engineering 
Aarya Shewale Greater Houston Texas A&M University Aerospace Engineering 
Sydney Socha Toledo University of North Florida Business 
Anabella Van Cotthem San Diego University of California, Irvine Biology 
Weston Wakefield Central Arkansas Southern Nazarene University Kinesiology 
Ashton Washington Tampa Bay Florida A&M University Finance 
Bailey Webb Colorado Rocky Mountains Ohio State University International Business 

Since its inception, 120 First Tee Scholars have benefited from this comprehensive support system. The First Tee College Scholarship Program is made possible through the generosity of individual supporters and corporate partners. Learn more about supporting First Tee. 

From participant to coach: Libby Chamberlin’s First Tee story

This First Tee Week, we’re celebrating game-changing coaches like Libby Chamberlin. 

The youngest of three siblings, Libby watched her older brother and sister take classes at First Tee – Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky for as long as she can remember. She wanted in. The moment she turned 7 and was old enough to join, she was ready. 

“I was ecstatic,” she said. 

Her siblings eventually found passions elsewhere, but Libby kept coming back, through middle school, high school and eventually into a coaching role she’s now held for six years. What started as a little sister tagging along has become a career shaped by First Tee’s values and the coaches who modeled them. 

Ask Libby what kept her coming back year after year before she even fell in love with golf, and she’ll tell you: the coaches. 

Tom and Mellisa Briner helped found First Tee – Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky and helped shape Libby’s path. Swing instructor Bill Donaldson has been a constant presence throughout both her years as a participant and now as a fellow coach. 

“I want to give kids the same great experience with the program that I had,” she said. 

Game-planning for the future with Ace 

During her time as a participant, Libby was selected for two First Tee participant events: Game Changers Academy and Drive Your Future Academy. At both, she connected with participants from across the country and first learned about Ace. 

The seed was planted. 

In the spring of her junior year, Libby and her friend Abigail Laake decided to go for it together. They became the first participants at their chapter to complete Ace, meeting regularly with then-executive director Alicia Lawrence to work through it side by side. 

Libby remembers those meetings vividly — not just for the work, but for what they meant during a stressful stretch of senior year. 

“It was so helpful to have a mentor to consistently check in with,” she said. “I loved the way that the Ace experience encouraged me to create a game plan for life after graduation in all aspects of my life, like exploring ways to invest in my community and deciding how golf will fit into my life after I stop playing on a team. It provided me with an opportunity to explore who I am, what I want and what my long-term goals are.” 

A coach is born 

It was through volunteering in First Tee classes and serving as a role model for younger participants that Libby discovered her love for coaching.  

Alicia encouraged her to pursue it, and six years later, she’s still at it. Coaching part-time through college deepened her passion for working with young people and pointed her toward a career in youth development and education.  

She graduated from Transylvania University where she played golf while studying education and social change, developing a particular passion for literacy and learning outside traditional classroom settings. She’s currently pursuing a master’s degree in library sciences with a focus on public libraries and youth services. 

The thread running through all of it traces back her First Tee chapter and the coaches who showed up for her. Now a Level 3 coach herself, Libby is certified to teach the Ace curriculum. 

For any First Tee alumni thinking about getting involved again, Libby has a simple message: Reach out to your local chapter. 

“I know it can be hard to meet people post-grad,” she says. “Helping out with a First Tee class is a great way to dip your toes back in while also giving back to the community — and it’s a fun way to get back into golf yourself.” 

According to research from The Harris Poll and First Tee, 90% of parents believe coaches are the “unsung” heroes of youth development. But most parents also agree there’s a shortage of high-caliber coaches today. That’s why we’re honoring impactful coaches during First Tee Week, May 23-30, 2026. Learn more.

First Tee Week returns to celebrate “Dear Coach” behind a generation of game changers

The second-annual First Tee Week will take place again as part of the Charles Schwab Challenge, May 23-30, 2026

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. (May 22, 2026) –  First Tee Week returns May 23–30, 2026, turning the national conversation toward the thousands of coaches across the First Tee network who use the game of golf to do something much bigger: help young people build character, confidence and life skills that follow them long after they leave the course.

As a centerpiece of the week’s festivities, First Tee will host a special alumni event in Fort Worth, coinciding with the Charles Schwab Challenge. The event will feature three accomplished First Tee alumni in a moderated conversation led by Honorary Chair Jim Nantz, the legendary commentator and longtime champion of First Tee. The discussion will spotlight how First Tee coaches have helped shape their journeys on and off the course.

“Throughout my career, I have seen how great coaches shape lives far beyond any single round or game,” said Jim Nantz. “I have met countless First Tee alumni who trace their confidence, character and sense of purpose to a coach who believed in them. I am honored to be part of First Tee Week and share some of these inspirational stories.”

In addition to the Fort Worth event, First Tee’s 150 chapters will bring the “Dear Coach” theme to life in their own communities through locally driven events and storytelling.

The timing couldn’t be more resonant. Junior golf participation has surged 58 percent since 2019, according to the National Golf Foundation, with nearly four million young people now playing on course, the highest number in more than two decades. Behind that growth is something that doesn’t show up in the participation data: the coaches, mentors and role models who make young people feel like they belong in the game.

First Tee coaches are central to that story. Across 150 chapters nationwide, they are trained to deliver more than golf instruction; they create meaningful experiences where kids feel excited to grow, safe to fail and supported in their development of life skills that they can help them on and off the course. New research from First Tee and The Harris Poll underscores what’s at stake: Nine in ten parents say youth sports help children build character (92%) and essential life skills (90%), and nearly 70 percent of adults who grew up with coaches say they wouldn’t be where they are today without those influential figures in their lives.

“As we return with the ‘Dear Coach’ theme, we are not only honoring the coaches who make our programs exceptional, but we are also inviting more people than ever to invest in the future First Tee is helping to build,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “The coaches in our network are why First Tee works. They are the reason a young person shows up, stays engaged and walks away changed.”

A new way to support the next generation

First Tee Week 2026 also marks the launch of a new opportunity for supporters to deepen their commitment to the organization’s mission. The First Tee Donor Ambassador program invites passionate advocates to help build the next generation of game changers through monthly giving to First Tee headquarters or a local chapter. Donor Ambassadors play a vital role in sustaining and expanding access to First Tee’s programs for young people across the country.

To become a Donor Ambassador or learn more about how to support First Tee, visit firsttee.org/givetoday.

First Tee Participants Shine on the State Stage

We are proud to recognize our First Tee – Greater San Antonio participants who competed on the state stage this season. These student-athletes represented their schools while demonstrating the confidence, resilience, and character that define what it means to be part of First Tee.

Jules Mahan
Jules Mahan of Pieper High School was named a UIL 5A Team State Champion at Legacy Hills Golf Club in Georgetown, TX.

Michelle Lee
Michelle Lee earned the title of UIL 5A Individual State Champion. She also helped lead Alamo Heights to a 3rd place team finish at Legacy Hills Golf Club in Georgetown, TX.

Makayla Harris
Makayla Harris competed in the TAPPS 5A State Tournament, placing 5th individually. She represented San Antonio Christian School, which finished 1st as a team at Squaw Valley Golf Course in Glen Rose, TX.

Amber Veliz
Amber Veliz represented Johnson High School at the UIL 6A State Team Championship, where the team finished 9th at TPC San Antonio Oaks in San Antonio, TX.

Cameron Kimbell & Kyle Jaska
Cameron Kimbell and Kyle Jaska of Smithson Valley High School competed in the UIL 5A Team State Championship, where the team finished 4th. Cameron also placed 22nd individually at Legacy Hills Golf Club in Georgetown, TX.

These participants continue to represent First Tee – Greater San Antonio through their dedication and commitment to the game. We are proud of their accomplishments and how they represent the program both on and off the course.

Celebrating Our 2026 Seniors

At First Tee – Greater San Antonio, we are proud to recognize our 2026 seniors and the incredible impact they’ve made throughout their time in the program. Through the game of golf, each of these individuals has developed confidence, character, and life skills that will carry them into their next chapter.

Get to know our seniors through their own words:

Hunter Gates

Pieper High School | 5 Years in First Tee
Future Plans: Texas Tech University, Chemical Engineering

How has First Tee helped equip you to take on new experiences or challenges?
First tee has equipped me to deal with new challenges by allowing me to volunteer for the younger kids teaching me the importance of patience and responsibility.

What would you tell a young person today who is considering joining First Tee?
It is an excellent program built to not only help you succeed in but in life as well.

What impact has First Tee had on your life?
First tee has impacted my life in many ways by making me a better person and teaching me essential life skills through lessons that also apply to golf through acronyms and fun activities.

Favorite memory from your First Tee experience:
My favorite memory from first tee is playing golf baseball as it has given me some really great memories over the years

Who was your First Tee mentor, and how did they influence your personal growth?
Though he is no longer at first tee, I would have to say coach Vinnie was my mentor at first by always encouraging and motivating me and giving constant helpful advice.

What are your plans for the future?
I plan to get a career in chemical engineering focusing primarily on the biological and environmental aspects of it.

Jack Polansky

Churchill High School | 11 Years in First Tee
Future Plans: Berry College, Environmental Science & Men’s Golf

How has First Tee helped equip you to take on new experiences or challenges?
The First Tee Core Values made me who I am. I am guided by the values that First Tee has continued to teach me all these years. I have also been set up for success by First Tee and found myself in positions that I never would have thought to be in, like speaking at galas. I was provided the opportunity to emcee their annual gala when I was just 16-years-old, and because of First Tee, I had the confidence to say yes and do it.

What would you tell a young person today who is considering joining First Tee?
Join! You won’t regret it. First Tee has set me up for life. I have had multiple “experiences of a lifetime” by being a First Tee kid. I got my first job through First Tee. I have gone out of state and met a bunch of new people. I wouldn’t be going to the college I’m going to without the help of First Tee. But most importantly, the people at First Tee care about each kid in the program. They will become more than coaches. They will become like family.

What impact has First Tee had on your life?
I am who I am because of First Tee. Being in First Tee has guided my life and allowed me to grow. I have been able to grow through the many responsibilities I’ve had at First Tee, from volunteering when I was 12 to working at 16 and lead coaching at 17. I have been able to grow through responsibility. I head to college in the fall, and I feel prepared for my next chapter because of First Tee. Plus, I know that everyone at First Tee Greater San Antonio will always be cheering me on and there for me if I ever need them.

Favorite memory from your First Tee experience:
My favorite experience was playing in the PURE Insurance Championship at Pebble Beach. Watching on TV can only do so much, you have to be out there to see it for yourself. I’m so excited that I was selected to go to that tournament. It was also fun to be on TV multiple times, as well as almost making an ace on hole 7 at Pebble Beach. Playing with Alex Cejka taught me a lot about my golf game as well.

Who was your First Tee mentor, and how did they influence your personal growth?
My most impactful mentor was Gabby Rangel. I always felt I could rely on her at any time. I admired her faith first mentality in all aspects of life and have really tried to apply that to my life. She is one of the most caring and nicest people I have ever known. She has also been there to help with my ACE project every step of the way.

What are your plans for the future?
I plan to attend Berry College for the next four years to study environmental science and play on their men’s golf team. For my career, I want to work on making golf courses sustainable. I want to focus on the water crisis and hopefully help many generations to come.

Jules Mahan

Pieper High School | 10 Years in First Tee
Future Plans: Murray State University, Business Management & Women’s Golf

How has First Tee helped equip you to take on new experiences or challenges?
First Tee has given me confidence and the self-assuredness to take on new challenges and step out of my comfort zone.

What would you tell a young person today who is considering joining First Tee?
I would tell a young person considering First Tee to absolutely do it! The program can change your life in ways you never thought possible. It changed mine for sure!

What impact has First Tee had on your life?
First Tee helped me greatly. We moved to San Antonio 10 years ago, and joining First Tee helped me not only make friends, but it also equipped me with the tools to be a leader at my school and in my community.

Favorite memory from your First Tee experience:
My favorite memory from my time at First Tee was being able to represent Greater San Antonio at the PURE Insurance Championship at Pebble Beach. It was such an honor to play in that event, and representing our chapter is something I will always remember.

Who was your First Tee mentor, and how did they influence your personal growth?
I feel blessed to have had so many mentors at First Tee. It would be impossible to choose only one. I was blessed to have great coaches as well as older participants who impacted me, including my brother Kyle. I would not be where I am today without all of them!

What are your plans for the future?
My future plans include graduating from Murray State University with a Business Degree. While there I have a goal to be the best teammate I can be and help the golf team win championships. After college, my goal is to have a career in business, either in marketing or entrepreneurship.

Tim Petter

Petter Christian Academy | 9 Years in First Tee
Future Plans: EMT Program & Fire Academy, San Antonio College

How has First Tee helped equip you to take on new experiences or challenges?
First Tee has equipped me to take on new experiences and challenges by building my confidence, teaching me perseverance, and helping me step outside my comfort zone.

What would you tell a young person today who is considering joining the First Tee?
I would tell them that joining the First Tee will forever be one of the best decisions they will ever make. The opportunities, the relationships, the connections, make the First Tee one of the best decisions I’ve made.

What impact has the First Tee made on your life?
The First Tee has helped me build confidence, discipline, and values like integrity and respect both on and off the golf course. It has also taught me how to set goals, stay committed, and handle challenges with a positive attitude.

Favorite memory from your First Tee experience?:
My favorite memory from my First Tee experience was being selected for the First Tee Innovators Forum. It was an incredible opportunity, I flew on a plane for the first time, traveled to Florida, met amazing people from First Tee chapters across the country, and worked on my community project, a blood drive, which I’m excited to finally complete after months of working with First Tee and South Texas Blood & Tissue.

Who was your First Tee mentor, and how did they influence your personal growth?
For me it all started with Coach Steve. Coach Steve has been there since day one for me, teaching me about respect and integrity not only on the golf course but also in every other aspect of my life.

What are your plans for the future?
My plans for the future are to finish the EMT program and the Fire academy at San Antonio College with flying colors, then get hired by one of the Fire departments in the beautiful city of San Antonio.

Tristyn Myrick

Virginia Allred Stacey Jr./Sr. High School | 7 Years in First Tee
Future Plans: Hawaii Pacific University, Cybersecurity & ROTC

How has First Tee helped equip you to take on new experiences or challenges?
First Tee helped me become more confident and showed me opportunities beyond high school through guest speakers and networking events.

What would you tell a young person today who is considering joining First Tee?
I would encourage them to join because it is about more than golf. You meet supportive people and gain experiences that can help you in the future.

What impact has First Tee had on your life?
First Tee has positively shaped my future and helped me grow both on and off the golf course.

Favorite memory from your First Tee experience:
Being on the float with my peers during Fiesta 2025. It was such a fun experience and showed how close the First Tee community is.

Who was your First Tee mentor, and how did they influence your personal growth?
My mentors were Ms. Carrie and Coach Chris. Coach Chris helped improve my golf game and always showed that he genuinely cared about my success. Having that support meant a lot to me. Ms. Carrie was also very supportive of my goals and always checked in to see how everything was going. She stayed fully engaged in my journey and continues to make sure I have amazing opportunities and strong support systems.

What are your plans for the future?
I plan to earn my degree in cybersecurity, complete ROTC, and become an Air Force officer.

We’re Proud of You, Seniors

These seniors represent the heart of First Tee. Their journeys reflect growth, resilience, and the power of opportunity.

We are proud of each of them and look forward to all they will accomplish in the future.

First Tee – Greater San Antonio Announces 2026 Drive to Dream Tournament Grant

At First Tee – Greater San Antonio, we believe every young golfer deserves a chance to compete, grow, and chase big goals without financial barriers standing in the way. That is why we created the Drive to Dream Tournament Grant.

This program is designed to open doors for participants ages 7–18 by helping cover tournament entry fees and making competitive golf more accessible. In 2026, we are investing 15,000 dollars in tournament support to help kids take the next step in their golf journey thanks to 2 anonymous donors.

Depending on age and eligibility, participants can receive up to 200 dollars for ages 7–13 and up to 500 dollars for ages 14–18 toward tournament entry fees. Funds are distributed directly into approved junior tour accounts and are used strictly for tournament play.

To qualify, participants must stay active in First Tee programming, maintain strong academic standing with A or B honor roll grades, and participate in competitive junior golf tours such as STPGA, TJGT, or AJGA. Older participants are also expected to complete volunteer service hours, helping build leadership off the course as well.

But this is about more than funding. Tournament golf helps build confidence, independence, perseverance, sportsmanship, and the ability to perform under pressure. These are the experiences that shape not just better golfers, but stronger leaders.

Participants also gain access to additional benefits through partner tours like STPGA and TJGT, including discounted memberships, event savings, and multiple levels of competition designed for every stage of development.

We will be awarding funds in two cycles, May 15 through June 15 and August 1 through August 30. Applications are reviewed bi-weekly and awarded based on eligibility and availability.

If you are ready to compete, grow your game, and take on new challenges, this is your moment.

Want to learn more or apply? Click here: https://firstteesanantonio.org/drive-to-dream/

Second Annual First Tee Ancira Hole-in-One Shootout Sets Records at The Quarry Golf Club

The Second Annual First Tee Ancira Hole-in-One Shootout delivered an unforgettable event of golf, excitement, and community impact at The Quarry Golf Club in San Antonio. With a record-breaking 126 participants and over $60,000 raised for First Tee Greater San Antonio, this year’s event was bigger and better than ever.

A One-of-a-Kind Golf Experience

The Ancira Hole-in-One Shootout is unlike any other golf event in San Antonio. All 18 holes were converted into Par 3s, giving every participant 18 shots and 18 chances to win big. Putters stayed in the bag, this night was all about going for the pin.

The stakes could not have been higher. Nine holes offered participants a shot at $40,000 toward a new car courtesy of Ancira, while the other nine holes put $20,000 in cash on the line. And on every single hole, $200 in cash was awarded to the closest-to-the-pin winner, keeping the energy electric all night long.

Each participant received a tee gift, drink tickets, and enjoyed a reception with appetizers following the tournament. Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for: the Shootout. All 18 closest-to-the-pin winners from the evening faced off for one final chance at a $50,000 cash prize, capping off a thrilling night of competition.

Record Turnout, Record Impact

This year’s event drew a record 125 participants, a testament to the growing enthusiasm for this unique fundraiser and the mission it supports. Thanks to the incredible generosity of participants, sponsors, and the broader San Antonio community, the evening raised over $60,000 for First Tee Greater San Antonio, funding that goes directly toward impacting the lives of kids and teens in the community through the game of golf.

We would like to thank Ancira for sponsoring this event and for their continued commitment to making this night possible year after year.

Congratulations to Our 18 Closest-to-the-Pin Winners

HoleNameDistance
1Sara Diaz32 inches
2Hudson Burell140 inches
3Nick Prater88.5 inches
4Chris Guido46 inches
5Gary Ahrens89.5 inches
6Matt Yantis85.5 inches
7Peter Herff25 inches
8Ken Ewell4 inches
9Nico Martinez73 inches
10John Hennessy67.5 inches
11Jeff Vexler70 inches
12James Pope61 inches
13Jeff Vexler108 inches
14April Ancira12 inches
15Sahara Washington79 inches
16Kirk Mask84 inches
17Mike Fischer52.5 inches
18Thomas Aguillon42.5 inches

Congratulations to all of our winners, and thank you to everyone who came out to make the Second Annual Ancira Hole-in-One Shootout a night to remember. Because of your support, First Tee Greater San Antonio can continue changing lives through the power of golf. We can’t wait to see you next year!

View photos from the event HERE

If you are interested in participating in or becoming a sponsor of our event next year, reach out to Kellen at [email protected]

Coach Maija Tanberg and Josiah Reyna Selected to Represent First Tee – Greater San Antonio at National Game Changers Academy

First Tee – Greater San Antonio is proud to announce that Lead Coach and Program Manager Maija Tanberg, as well as Participant Josiah Reyna, have been selected to represent the chapter at the upcoming First Tee Game Changers Academy this summer in Minneapolis, Minnesota, July 17–22, 2026.

The First Tee Game Changers Academy is a transformative five-day learning and empowerment experience. Selected teens from across the U.S. will engage in meaningful discussions on self-awareness, inclusive leadership, and community building, skills they will carry with them throughout their lives. First Tee invites its partners to lead dynamic, interactive workshops, complemented by reflective activities guided by nationally trained First Tee coaches.

This experience is designed to enlighten, inspire, and empower teens, preparing them to become Game Changers in their communities now and in the future. The academy is named in honor of former First Tee CEO Joe Louis Barrow, Jr., a passionate advocate for empowering the next generation.

As a selected coach participant, Maija Tanberg will help facilitate programming aligned with the Academy’s core commitments, including collaborating with others, building positive self-identity, and growing through challenges. She will also support learning objectives focused on helping teens build self-awareness, embrace inclusive environments where all perspectives are valued, and develop confidence as change agents in their communities.

Inside the ropes and behind the scenes: How First Tee – Greater Philadelphia is highlighting opportunities in golf 

For most golf fans, the PGA Championship is something you watch from the gallery or on television. For four young people from First Tee – Greater Philadelphia, it’s where they’ll go to work. 

Lewis Cantres, Jake Ruppert, Hank Charlton and Andi Jones will serve as standard bearers at this year’s PGA Championship, walking inside the ropes alongside the world’s best golfers. It’s the kind of experience that doesn’t just make for a great story. For participants who are beginning to think seriously about their futures, it’s a glimpse at what a career in golf can actually look like. 

That glimpse is something First Tee – Greater Philadelphia is intentionally creating. 

The week before the tournament, dozens of participants attended the PGA’s Career Exploration Day, an event designed for young people who are curious about the golf industry, whether that’s merchandise and marketing, technology, engineering or tournament operations. 

Participants rotated through stations covering each of those areas, getting a firsthand look at what it takes to pull off one of professional golf’s major championships. They’ll also receive a ticket to attend a practice round the following week, so the learning doesn’t end when the event does. 

Learning the craft 

First Tee – Greater Philadelphia’s 2026 Caddie Academy graduated 67 new caddies this year, including seven girls, and several have already taken their skills onto real courses, including 14-year-old Sydney Schafer, who completed her first loop at Philly Cricket Club.  

“The Caddie Academy was an incredible experience for me. The trainings taught me all the rules I needed to know, along with respect for the players and the course,” Sydney said. “The training helped me realize the responsibility I need to take on for a job, caddying and beyond. The Caddie Academy has really set me up for success and prepared me for my future.” 

For these participants, caddying is more than a job. It’s professional experience in the golf industry, made possible through the training and connections of First Tee – Greater Philadelphia. 

In 2025, the chapter launched a new initiative in partnership with other local organizations: a greenskeeper training program designed to prepare students for careers in golf course management. 

The program reflects the chapter’s broader belief that the golf industry needs people who understand how to build and maintain the game from the ground up and that those people should reflect the diversity of the communities First Tee serves. 

Making sure the door is actually open 

To make First Tee’s golf and life skills programming more accessible, First Tee – Greater Philadelphia’s Access 2 Golf initiative provides transportation and meals to participants from partner organizations in specific zip codes from which getting to a golf course is a genuine challenge. 

In 2025, Access 2 Golf reached 21 partner organizations and 545 students, 88% of whom came from diverse backgrounds.  

From the standard bearer assignments at a major championship to the students caddying their first loops, First Tee – Greater Philadelphia is building something more than a youth golf program. It’s building a pipeline, one that connects young people to real opportunities in an industry that has historically been hard to break into. 

This spring, First Tee – Greater Philadelphia participants will walk through the gates of the PGA Championship not as fans, but as future professionals exploring what’s possible. 

Jack Polansky Awarded Scholarships from The Hannon-Fields Champions Society and First Tee College Scholarship Program

Jack Polansky, a Churchill High School student and longtime First Tee participant, has been awarded two separate scholarships in recognition of his academic achievement, leadership, and involvement in golf and community programs. Polansky has been involved with First Tee for nearly 11 years and will continue his academic and athletic career at Berry College, where he plans to play golf and study environmental science.

Polansky was selected as a recipient of the Hannon-Fields Champion’s Society Scholarship, in partnership with Texas Mutual, administered by the STPGA Reach Foundation and supported by the Hannon Cup Association. The merit-based scholarship is awarded annually to a select group of male and female student-athletes who demonstrate strong character, academic success, and a commitment to the game of golf. The Hannon-Fields Champions Society Scholarship is among the premier awards offered through the STPGA Reach Foundation, with the George Hannon Scholarship recognized as its largest scholarship initiative.

In addition, Polansky was named a First Tee College Scholarship recipient through the First Tee College Scholarship Program. The program supports select First Tee alumni as they transition into higher education through renewable, need- and merit-based scholarships of up to $5,000 per year for up to four years. In addition to financial assistance, the program provides recipients with ongoing mentorship, professional development opportunities, internship access, and career support throughout their college experience. This year, 23 scholars were selected from a record 185 applicants.

The First Tee College Scholarship Program is designed for graduating high school seniors who are active First Tee participants and who demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership, community involvement, and financial need.

Polansky’s recognition through both programs highlights his continued commitment to academic excellence, personal development, and the values emphasized through his participation in youth golf and character-building initiatives.

From the golf course to college: Addison Seban’s journey with First Tee – Golden Isles

Growing up in the Golden Isles, Addison Seban began playing golf because it meant time with her grandfather.

“He would bring me out to the golf course with him, and those are some of my favorite memories,” she said. “I didn’t really know much about the game at first, but just being out there with him made me fall in love with it. He was always really patient with me and encouraged me to keep trying, even when I got frustrated.”

Those experiences lit a spark in Addison that she carried to First Tee – Golden Isles, where she would go on to develop her golf game and grow as a leader.

Candles, clubs and commitment

Along the way, Addison found a creative solution to a familiar challenge: She wanted to play more golf, but new clubs weren’t in the budget. She started making and selling candles. What began as a practical workaround became a passion.

Her favorite scents? Pine during the Christmas season for that classic, cozy feeling, and eucalyptus.

All her hard work on the course, in the classroom and in service to others as a First Tee junior coach recently led to a major milestone. She earned an Evans Scholarship, a prestigious honor for young caddies.

“Finding out I earned the Evans Scholarship was honestly such an exciting and emotional moment,” Addison said. “I felt really proud of myself, but also just so grateful for everyone who supported me along the way. It made me reflect on all the time and effort I’ve put into golf, school and volunteering, and it felt amazing to see that pay off.”

The lasting impact of First Tee

As she heads to college, Addison said she’ll continue to use the values she learned at First Tee – things like integrity, confidence and perseverance. “Those are things that apply to so much more than just golf. First Tee has taught me how to stay positive, work through challenges and carry myself with respect both on and off the course.”

Those aren’t just words for Addison. They’re the foundation of everything she’s built and everything she’s building toward.

As for what comes next, Addison has her sights set on a career in professional golf, not as a player but behind the scenes. She hopes to work with the PGA TOUR and be involved in tournament operations someday. “I think it would be really exciting to be part of organizing or running events and being around the sport at that level,” she said. “Golf has been such a big part of my life, so I’d love to stay connected to it and build a career around it.”

With the Evans Scholarship opening new doors and a lifetime of lessons from First Tee behind her, there’s every reason to believe she will.