Category: Blog

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 night of golf, excitement, and community impact at The Quarry Golf Club in San Antonio. With a record-breaking 125 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]

Maija Tanberg 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 has been selected to represent the chapter at the upcoming First Tee Game Changers Academy this summer in Minneapolis, Minnesota, July 17–22, 2026. Maija is originally from Forest Lake, Minnesota.

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.

In addition, participants will engage in hands-on activities designed to enhance golf skills while reinforcing the life skills central to the First Tee mission.

Maija’s selection reflects her commitment to youth development and her impact within First Tee programming. Her participation further strengthens First Tee – Greater San Antonio’s dedication to developing confident, capable young leaders through the game of golf.

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.

First Tee – Greater San Antonio Participants Selected to Compete at First Tee National Championship

Two participants from First Tee – Greater San Antonio have earned a spot on the national stage.

Jack Polansky of Churchill High School and Jules Mahan of Pieper High School were selected to compete in the First Tee National Championship following a rigorous application and selection process that identifies the top First Tee players from across the country.

Polansky has been involved with First Tee for nearly 11 years and will continue his golf career at Berry College, where he plans to study environmental science. Mahan, a 10-year participant, will attend Murray State University on a golf scholarship and major in business management. This is the third year in a row that Jules has been selected to compete in the First Tee National Championship.

The First Tee National Championship is the organization’s premier competitive event, bringing together 48 of its top participants for a 54-hole stroke-play tournament. The field is split into two divisions with 24 boys and 24 girls competing at the Finley Golf Club on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

In addition to competition, participants take part in educational sessions and discussions centered around personal growth, leadership, and opportunities within the golf industry. The event emphasizes First Tee’s core values of growing through challenge, pursuing goals, and using good judgment while competing at a high level.

Performance in the championship is also recognized nationally, with results submitted to organizations such as the American Junior Golf Association, Junior Golf Scoreboard, and World Amateur Golf Ranking.

Division winners will earn the Tattersall Cup and may receive an exemption into the PURE Insurance Championship.

Polansky and Mahan’s selection highlights their dedication to the game and places them among the top junior golfers representing First Tee programs nationwide.

11th Annual First Tee Invitational a Record-Setting Success for First Tee – Greater San Antonio

The 11th Annual First Tee Invitational presented by the Michael M. Peacock Foundation, and hosted by the Canyon Springs Senior Men’s Golf Association, was a record-setting success, raising more than $80,000 in support of First Tee – Greater San Antonio and its mission to empower youth through golf.

Held at Canyon Springs Golf Club as the 9th year serving as an Official Fiesta® event, the sold-out tournament welcomed 144 participants for a day centered on community, philanthropy, and impact. The event continues to be one of First Tee – Greater San Antonio’s signature fundraisers, and over the past eight years, the tournament has netted nearly $310,000 to support programs that help young people build character, confidence, and life skills through the game of golf.

This year’s event featured an exciting day on the course, along with a robust online auction and raffle that generated additional support through unique golf experiences, travel getaways, sports memorabilia, and premium packages. Popular auction items included rounds at premier golf destinations, resort stays, entertainment packages, and exclusive experiences, all contributing to the event’s fundraising success.

The tournament’s continued growth would not be possible without the dedicated support of longtime partners. The Canyon Springs Senior Men’s Golf Association once again played a vital role in hosting and supporting the event, while presenting sponsor Michael M. Peacock Foundation helped drive another successful year. First Tee – Greater San Antonio also recognized the generosity of community partners Carrabba’s Italian Grill, which has donated food for six consecutive years, and Las Palapas, a supporter of the tournament for the past five years.

The success of the First Tee Invitational reflects a community committed to investing in the next generation. Every dollar raised supports First Tee – Greater San Antonio’s efforts to help young people grow through experiences that build resilience, leadership, and character.

As the tournament continues to grow, so does its impact, making this year’s record-setting event another memorable chapter in a tradition of golf and giving.

Here’s why mentorship matters for kids 

First Tee coaches feel proud when a new player launches a drive or sinks a putt for the first time. But the true magic of our program happens off the course when a participant overcomes a tough obstacle at school or when an alumnus achieves a big goal. 

Those moments highlight how much mentorship matters. 

A landmark 30-year study by Big Brothers Big Sisters of America found that young adults with mentors earned 20% more than their peers. The same research determined that mentorship is one of the most cost-effective youth development interventions available.  

Drawing on results from over 70 program evaluations, MENTOR: The National Mentoring Partnership has found that mentoring supports improved grades, test scores and educational attainment, while also improving classroom behavior and school attendance. 

But accessible mentors aren’t always easy to find 

For all of mentorship’s documented benefits, access to mentors isn’t equal — and the gap is widening. 

A 2024 report by MENTOR found that today’s 18–21-year-olds are 9% less likely to have had a mentor growing up compared to the Millennial generation. More than one in three young adults say they grew up without the support of any mentor at all.  

The research is clear that mentoring relationships promote a strong sense of belonging, an asset that’s essential for healthy youth development. For the young people who most need a caring adult in their corner, that connection is often unavailable. It’s a gap that programs like First Tee are uniquely equipped to fill. 

More than a game 

According to research from First Tee and The Harris Poll, 88% of parents with coached children say their child has become more likely to speak up for themselves in other areas of life since participating in coached sports. An even larger majority — 94% — believe sports help children grow their confidence and social skills.   

First Tee coaches teach participants how to introduce themselves to playing partners, and participants learn the A-L-R method for engaging in conversation: 

A: Ask questions to learn about someone. 
L: Listen to their response. Make sure you’re listening to understand rather than thinking of what to say next. 
R: Reflect and respond thoughtfully with a follow up question or by sharing your own thoughts or feelings on the topic. 

The impact of coaching lasts well into adulthood. Among parents who had coaches in their own youth, 67% say they wouldn’t be where they are today without those adults. They credit their coaches with teaching them to collaborate, lead and overcome challenges. 

Most First Tee coaches are not golf professionals and that’s OK – not every First Tee participant aspires to play competitive golf, but we ask our coaches to lead by example as great listeners, cheerleaders and positive role models for the next generation. 

Support First Tee’s efforts to provide quality mentors for our future leaders. Become a Donor Ambassador today.