Category: News Releases

First Tee – San Antonio Participant to Host Blood Drive at Learning Center

Tim, a dedicated teen participant of First Tee – Greater San Antonio and the First Tee National Innovators Forum, is turning inspiration into action with a life-changing project. He is hosting a blood drive at the First Tee – Greater San Antonio in partnership with the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center.

The First Tee Innovators Forum equips teens to create meaningful service projects in areas such as education, health, human rights, and environmental sustainability. Selected participants, like Tim, gain access to interactive workshops, small group breakout sessions, and mentorship from industry leaders. Through this program, participants are empowered to develop projects that generate real change in their communities.

Tim’s journey to this blood drive began with a simple idea. He was originally planning a free little library for his community but was inspired by a former Innovators Forum participant who successfully organized a blood drive. Seeing the profound impact of saving lives motivated Tim to pursue the same path. Tim shared, “Knowing my efforts in putting this blood drive together can help save lives really helped inspire me in my choice of my project.”

The South Texas Blood & Tissue Center, a nonprofit organization with more than 45 years of experience, plays a critical role in ensuring the region has a safe and adequate blood supply. Their work supports hospitals and front-line healthcare workers by helping save lives through blood, marrow, stem cell, cord blood, and tissue donations. By partnering with the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center, Tim’s blood drive will directly contribute to this lifesaving mission.

Tim credits First Tee – Greater San Antonio for the guidance and support that made this project possible. He said, “I wouldn’t have a location if Ms. Carrie Kimbell hadn’t graciously let me host it at the First Tee. Coach Steve Lennon has been an amazing encourager, helping me with both minor and major details of the blood drive. The First Tee has helped me be more confident in myself and my skills. I wouldn’t be able to tackle this project without their support.”

The impact of this blood drive extends far beyond the event itself. By giving back to his community, Tim is helping save lives and demonstrating the power of leadership, empathy, and service, which are at the heart of the First Tee mission.

Reflecting on his experience with the Innovators Forum, Tim shared, “Meeting people from across the country from different First Tees was so fun. The Innovators Forum was my highlight of 2025, and I cannot wait to represent the First Tee of Greater San Antonio again.”

Community Invitation

The blood drive is open to everyone in the San Antonio community. Your donation can save lives and make a real difference. Join Tim at First Tee – Greater San Antonio:

  • Date: Friday, April 17th
  • Time: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  • Location: First Tee Learning Center, 915 E Mulberry Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212

Sign up here: https://donor.southtexasblood.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/154158

Tim hopes to see 30 donors sign up, and your participation will help him reach this goal. Every donation counts and helps save lives in the San Antonio community. Come be part of this lifesaving effort and support Tim’s project.

This blood drive is not just an event. It is a chance for the San Antonio community to come together, make a difference, and help save lives. Tim’s project is a shining example of how one motivated teen, supported by a strong community and powerful mentorship, can create meaningful change.

Support First Tee with The Wash Tub Fundraiser

The Wash Tub is proud to support the First Tee Invitational hosted by the Canyon Springs Senior Men’s Golf Association with a special fundraiser benefiting First Tee.

Supporters can purchase a $25 Wash Tub gift card for just $20, and $10 from every card sold will go directly to First Tee programs that help teach young people life skills and the game of golf.

In addition to supporting First Tee, buyers will receive a 20% discount that can be used toward a Wash Tub membership (save $80 on a membership renewal), car washes, detailing services, or merchandise.

To participate, complete the order form at the link below:
https://forms.1tub.co/workflow/ef3c1d66-98ba-44b2-83d2-5ccc889d9f03?autoSize=true&size=mobile

It’s a simple way to support First Tee while saving on your next visit to The Wash Tub.

APGA Tour Invests in First Tee – Greater San Antonio Participants Through Unforgettable Week of Programming

First Tee – Greater San Antonio recently welcomed the Advocates Professional Golf Association Tour for a powerful week centered around one thing: our kids.

From leading our speaker series to stepping directly into clinics on the range, APGA professionals became part of the experience. Their time, mentorship, and genuine engagement created moments our participants will carry with them well beyond this week.

Creating Access and Opportunity Through Golf

Founded in 2010, the APGA Tour is committed to creating greater access and opportunity in the game of golf. Established by Ken Bentley and Adrian Stills, the organization works to build professional pathways while also prioritizing youth engagement and representation in the sport.

That mission strongly aligns with what we believe at First Tee – Greater San Antonio. Golf is a vehicle for life skills, confidence, and long-term opportunity. When young people see what is possible and are supported along the way, their belief in themselves grows.

Fore Your Future Speaker Series Featuring Michael Bradham

As part of the Fore Your Future Speaker Series presented by Frost Bank, APGA professional Michael Bradham, a San Antonio native, spent the morning with our 14+ participants.

Bradham shared his journey through the game, from competing as a collegiate athlete at Prairie View A&M University to navigating the professional ranks, stepping away from the game to build a career and family, and returning with renewed focus and purpose. He spoke openly about resilience, discipline, and adaptability, values our participants actively develop through First Tee programming.

Following the discussion, Bradham joined participants on the range, providing instruction, answering questions, and connecting one-on-one. For many of our young golfers, learning directly from a professional who grew up in their own city made the experience even more meaningful. It reinforced that big dreams can start right here in San Antonio.

APGA Professionals Join Programming on the Range

In addition to the speaker event, six APGA Tour professionals participated directly in First Tee programming sessions. Rather than making a brief appearance, they integrated into clinics, offering hands-on instruction and personal encouragement to participants of varying skill levels.

The professionals who spent time with our participants included:

  • Kci Lindskog
  • John Baptiste Hakizimana
  • Jonathan Yoshihiro
  • Troy Taylor II
  • Gregory Odom Jr.
  • Olajuwon Ajanaku

For many participants, this was their first opportunity to learn alongside professional golfers. The experience provided not only technical instruction, but representation and visibility, showing young athletes that pathways in golf are attainable.

Meaningful Investment in the Next Generation

Beyond mentorship and instruction, the APGA Tour also provided an array of prizes for participants, including AirPods, televisions, golf equipment, backpacks, water bottles, and towels. The gesture reflected a genuine commitment to investing in the next generation both on and off the course.

Most importantly, the week reinforced a powerful message to our participants. They belong in this game, and there is space for them to grow within it.

First Tee – Greater San Antonio extends sincere appreciation to the APGA Tour, its leadership, staff, and professionals for their time and dedication to our youth.

We also thank Frost Bank for presenting the Fore Your Future Speaker Series and for their continued support of youth development in San Antonio.

To learn more about the APGA Tour and its mission to expand opportunity in golf, visit apgatour.org.

First Tee – Greater San Antonio Receives Transformational $100,000 Gift from Mr. Edward Whitacre, former Chairman & CEO of AT&T, to Expand Affordable Youth Programming

San Antonio, Texas — First Tee – Greater San Antonio (FTGSA) is honored to announce a generous $100,000 gift from Mr. Ed Whitacre, former Chairman and CEO of AT&T, in support of transformative and affordable youth programming across Greater San Antonio.

A longtime supporter of sports and community initiatives, Whitacre has a deep passion for San Antonio and is a frequent visitor of the First Tee Polo Field Driving Range. His investment reflects a shared commitment to creating opportunities for young people to develop confidence, character, and leadership skills through the game of golf.

This significant gift aligns directly with FTGSA’s mission to empower youth through sport and supports key priorities within the organization’s strategic plan. Funding will help subsidize participation costs, expand access to programming, and strengthen the delivery of life-skills curriculum led by trained coaches and mentors — ensuring that financial barriers never prevent youth from participating.

“Our goal is to provide transformative opportunities that are accessible and affordable for all families,” said Carrie Kimbell, CEO of First Tee – Greater San Antonio. “Mr. Whitacre’s generous investment strengthens our ability to deliver best-in-class youth programming while advancing the strategic growth necessary to serve more young people across our community. We are incredibly grateful for his belief in our mission and the future of the youth we serve.”

The gift supports FTGSA’s strategic focus on participant and coach engagement, operational sustainability, and expanding community impact — helping ensure long-term access to high-quality affordable programming that develops young people both on and off the golf course.

Each year, First Tee – Greater San Antonio reaches over 35,000 youth through life skills, school, and community programs designed to build life skills such as pursuing goals, collaborating with others, using good judgment, and growing through challenge.

Actor, avid golfer Michael Peña joins First Tee as Brand Ambassador

Peña will support First Tee’s efforts to bring its game-changing golf and life skills curriculum to young people from all backgrounds

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. (Feb. 20, 2026) – Youth development organization First Tee is proud to announce that actor Michael Peña has joined the organization as a Brand Ambassador. As a longtime golfer, Peña is enthusiastic about bringing the sport and its inherent values to families across the globe. 

Known for roles in films and television series including “Ant-Man,” “A Million Miles Away” and the recent hit series, “All Her Fault,” Peña has been a dedicated supporter of First Tee since 2023, when he first attended the organization’s annual Leadership Summit as a guest speaker. The Summit brings together teen participants from First Tee chapters across the country for leadership development, networking and golf. 

As a Brand Ambassador, Peña will support First Tee’s efforts to reach kids from all communities with programming that uses golf as a vehicle to help young people build inner strength, self-confidence and resilience. Through First Tee’s network of 150 chapters, the organization serves young people ages 5-18 with programs that extend beyond the golf course and into participants’ homes, schools and communities. First Tee also offers robust scholarship and alumni programs. 

An accomplished golfer himself, Peña regularly competes in pro-am events and has witnessed firsthand how the game can positively impact its players. 

“Golf has been an important part of my life, teaching me patience, discipline and how to handle both success and failure,” Peña said. “I’m honored to become a Brand Ambassador and help First Tee reach even more young people with programs that will help them succeed on the golf course and beyond.” 

“Michael’s genuine passion for golf and his commitment to empowering young people make him an ideal Brand Ambassador as we work to reach more kids with our life-changing programs,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “Michael has inspired teens at our Leadership Summit with his authenticity and his message about the power of perseverance. We are grateful he is taking his valuable time and energy to support First Tee.”  

First Tee reaches more than 3 million young people annually through programming at chapters, schools and community centers. Peña joins three existing First Tee Brand Ambassadors: Actress and First Tee alumna Kathryn Newton and PGA TOUR players Alex Smalley and Austin Smotherman, who is also a First Tee alumnus. 

First Tee’s 2026 national events connect teens with mentors, experiences that shape their futures

Signature programs bring young people face-to-face with business leaders, professional athletes and life-changing opportunities

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 26, 2026) – First Tee is pleased to announce its 2026 lineup of national participant events, offering teens powerful opportunities to grow as leaders, athletes and changemakers. Through partnerships with leading companies, organizations and generous individuals, First Tee provides experiences that challenge young people to step outside their comfort zones and discover their potential in supportive environments.

These national events are part of First Tee’s broader commitment to keeping teens actively engaged during the critical adolescent years, a need underscored by research from First Tee and The Harris Poll showing that nearly 90% of parents believe character development deserves greater emphasis in today’s society. Through First Tee’s Ace capstone program, junior coach opportunities and immersive national events, First Tee builds essential life skills and creates lasting mentor connections that help teens navigate this pivotal stage of development.

2026 Participant Events include:

Leadership Series (March 2026): In partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore, this five-week program guides participants through discovering their unique leadership values and strengths. It is held at PGA TOUR Superstore locations across the country.

National Championship (June 21-25, 2026): The University of North Carolina’s Finley Golf Club will host First Tee’s top high school golfers as they demonstrate their character and competitive skills developed through the program.

Game Changers Academy (July 18-22, 2026): Now in its 26th year, this signature event returns to Minneapolis, challenging teens to celebrate their unique perspectives and create positive change in their communities.

Leadership Summit (Aug. 3-7 and 10-14, 2026): Leadership Series graduates can apply for this adventure-based learning experience at West Creek Ranch in Montana, where PGA TOUR Superstore executives mentor participants through activities like horseback riding and whitewater rafting, designed to strengthen their leadership capabilities.

PURE Insurance Championship (September 15-20, 2026): At the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links, teens compete alongside PGA TOUR Champions players and connect with business leaders in an event broadcast on Golf Channel, blending elite golf with career mentorship.

Drive Your Future Academy (Oct. 8-12, 2026): In partnership with John Deere, this event brings young women to Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, to connect with accomplished female mentors from John Deere and other leading organizations and explore pathways for continued involvement in golf and leadership beyond high school.

Innovators Forum (Nov. 15-19, 2026): Participants collaborate with seasoned business and nonprofit leaders in Amelia Island, Florida, to design and launch community service initiatives that make a difference in their hometowns.

First Tee participant events provide opportunities for teens to pursue their interests, expand their horizons and grow as people. For some, these events represent their first time on an airplane, visiting a college campus or traveling on their own. This freedom gives teens the opportunity to use good judgment, grow through challenge and build positive self-identity.

“These events represent some of the most meaningful moments in our participants’ First Tee journey,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “We consistently hear from teens, parents and coaches that these experiences help crystallize what is possible for their futures. We are deeply grateful to AWS, John Deere, PGA TOUR Superstore, PURE Insurance, Topgolf and countless individual supporters who invest in these life-changing opportunities.”

First Tee’s national participant events serve more than 300 teens annually. Interested teens and parents should reach out to their local First Tee chapter for application information. The First Tee National Championship, Game Changers Academy and PURE Insurance Championship are currently accepting applications through March 18. High school seniors can also apply for the First Tee College Scholarship Program.

First Tee is a nonprofit youth development organization that empowers young people through the game of golf, helping them develop inner strength, confidence and life skills they’ll use on and off the course.

 First Tee recognizes 2025 Ace recipients 

Ace is First Tee’s rigorous capstone program, which helps teens gameplan for the future 

Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. – (Dec. 8, 2025) – First Tee is proud to announce that 14 participants have successfully completed the Ace program, the organization’s premier achievement, which guides young people in planning their futures through hands-on projects and real-world skill development. 

“Achieving Ace requires considerable time, dedication and self-reflection,” said Ryan Graff, vice president of programs at First Tee. “These teens have demonstrated an incredible commitment to personal growth, and we are proud of their achievements and excited to see where their futures take them.” 

The 2025 Ace achievers represent seven First Tee chapters across the country: 

  • Will Berthiaume, First Tee – Connecticut 
  • Abelina Wakeland, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast 
  • Annika Collado, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast 
  • Elise Rivas-Mucklow, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast* 
  • Jenna Misset, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast 
  • Colby Townsend, First Tee – Greater Charlotte 
  • Colin Watson, First Tee – Greater Dallas 
  • Daniel Ferguson, First Tee – Greater Dallas 
  • Jacob Lewallen, First Tee – Greater Dallas* 
  • Aarya Shewale, First Tee – Greater Houston* 
  • Arden Han-Wei, First Tee – Greater Sacramento* 
  • Hannah Stouder, First Tee – Greater Sacramento* 
  • Evan Santoso, First Tee – Silicon Valley 
  • Tristan Hipolito, First Tee – Silicon Valley* 

*Indicates Make Your Mark grant recipient

Through the Ace program, participants explore their interests and potential career paths, while creating actionable goals. To achieve Ace, participants must complete four comprehensive projects focusing on golf, education, career and community service. 

Based on their community service projects, participants can earn grants for their local chapters to expand their impact. In 2025, six Ace participants secured Make Your Mark grants totaling $41,000 for initiatives addressing critical needs in their communities. These grants allow Ace participants to leave a legacy at their chapter and inspire future participants to do the same. 

First Tee – Greater Sacramento received $10,000 in recognition of Hannah Stouder’s “Hannah’s Care Closet,” which provides free essential items to elementary school students in need. First Tee – Greater Houston received $10,000 in recognition of Aarya Shewale’s “Katy Chess Academy,” which helps kids develop life skills through chess instruction. 

For more information about the Ace program and how to get involved, visit firsttee.org/ace. 

Actress, First Tee alumna Kathryn Newton to headline First Tee 2025 Drive Your Future Academy presented by John Deere 

The annual female empowerment event will be making its Ponte Vedra Beach debut 

Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. – (Nov. 6, 2025) – First Tee and John Deere will welcome 36 girls from across the country to the 2025 Drive Your Future Academy, a five-day leadership program created to help girls develop critical skills that will serve them in college and beyond.  

Known for her many movie and television roles, First Tee Ambassador Kathryn Newton will take part in a fireside chat. As an alumna of First Tee – Miami, she brings both a personal connection to the organization and a passion for empowering the next generation. Newton and other adult mentors will also join the girls for a golf outing at The Yards. 

November 7, 2025: Attendees play golf at The Yards and take part in a workshop with a John Deere executive during the First Tee Drive Your Future Academy in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL.

From Nov. 6-10, female leaders from organizations like John Deere, CapTech, Accenture and Cisco will lead sessions including:  

  • Advocating for yourself and others  
  • Overcoming adverse situations  
  • Cultivating meaningful relationships  
  • Roadmap to successful mentorship  
  • Embracing self-awareness  

The 36 teen participants will also lead a volunteer opportunity at the Salvation Army and explore historic downtown St. Augustine. 

The event reinforces First Tee’s commitment to empowering girls through its programs, which are offered through 150 chapters across the country. Most First Tee Chapters provide dedicated programming for girls, intentionally inviting and engaging them in a variety of opportunities. The First Tee Drive Your Future Academy presented by John Deere is one of a full slate of teen participant events that are open to girls in the First Tee Network.    

“With our commitment to providing innovative solutions to our customers, John Deere is always looking ahead, and our support of the Drive Your Future Academy is no exception,” said Bridget Dusing, sponsorship and events marketing manager at John Deere. “We are proud to support First Tee and the opportunities they provide to help prepare the next generation of leaders.”  

The teens were selected for the Drive Your Future Academy through a national application process based on essays, letters of recommendation and involvement in First Tee and other activities.    

“The Drive Your Future Academy represents everything we believe about the power of investing in young women — when girls develop confidence, leadership skills and meaningful connections early, they don’t just succeed in golf, they transform entire industries and communities,”  said Jennifer Weiler, senior vice president of network relations at First Tee. “We’re proud to partner with John Deere to create this transformative experience that equips these 36 young leaders with the tools and network they need to break barriers and drive change in whatever field they choose.”    

Since 2012, John Deere has supported First Tee, a youth development organization celebrating nearly three decades of teaching life skills and helping kids and teens build their strength of character through golf.  

    

First Tee, Golf Digest honor 2025 network award winners advancing youth through golf

Golf Digest awards $175,000 to winning First Tee chapters in celebration of their impact

Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. – (Nov. 5, 2025) – In partnership with Golf Digest, First Tee is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 network awards, recognizing outstanding individuals and chapters who exemplify the organization’s mission to empower young people through golf.

“First Tee has more than 10,000 passionate and committed adults who are involved in supporting chapters throughout the network,” said CEO Greg McLaughlin. “Congratulations to those selected for our 2025 network awards. Our mission would not be possible without their involvement and leadership. We are also very grateful to Golf Digest for their continued support of First Tee and our chapters.”

The awards celebrate the transformative work of coaches, volunteers, educators and leaders across the First Tee network. In recognition of their achievements, Golf Digest will award $175,000 in grants to support the honorees and their chapters.

“We are proud to honor these inspiring individuals and chapters who bring the game of golf to kids of all backgrounds,” said Chris Reynolds, general manager of Golf Digest. “Their dedication helps shape character and confidence far beyond the course.”

First Tee offers programming at golf courses, schools and community sites across the country and in select international locations, impacting more than 3.1 million youth annually. It celebrates its annual award winners each fall. This year’s recipients are:

Tim Finchem Leadership Award: Andrew Hunt, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast
Founder of First Tee – Treasure Coast (now part of First Tee – Florida Gold Coast), Hunt has served as a board member and passionate mentor since 2012. His personal contributions total more than $3.5 million to various First Tee chapters and national initiatives. Most notably, he provided $450,000 to establish a new learning center in Fort Pierce, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast’s most underserved community.

Coach of the Year: Anthony Rodriguez, First Tee – Metropolitan New York
With 15 years of dedicated service, “Coach Arod” contributed more than a thousand hours of instruction in the past year alone. He’s been an integral part of the chapter’s efforts to make golf more accessible to New York City kids and teens, including an outreach initiative at Mosholu Golf Course in the Bronx. 

George H.W. Bush Volunteer of the Year: Allen Doyle, First Tee – Troup County
A former professional golfer, Doyle has led First Tee – Troup County for two decades as its board president and largest donor. Known for his hands-on approach, he mows grass, repairs clubs and coaches at the chapter every weekend.

Teacher of the Year:  Michelle Phillips LeBlanc, First Tee – Atlantic
Based at Forest Glen School in New Brunswick, Phillips LeBlanc has introduced over 400 students to the game of golf. She’s organized golf course field trips and a STEM mini golf challenge, where students design a course in the gym and welcome parents to play.

Each of the chapters will receive $25,000 from Golf Digest to further their impact. First Tee – Canada will split its prize with Forest Glen School. Additionally, Golf Digest will make financial contributions to three chapters that are being recognized with the Barbara A. Douglas & Dr. William J. Powell Community Award, which celebrates chapters that are championing access and inclusivity.

  • First Tee – Greater Richmond ($35,000)
    Hosting over 25 annual field trips for Title I schools, this chapter has impacted 500+ kids through partnerships with organizations like the Boys & Girls Club and Police Athletic League.
  • First Tee – Birmingham ($25,000)
    The chapter boasts a diverse roster of board members and coaches, ensuring every participant has an advocate or mentor with whom they identify. It also offers scholarships to all participants on free- or reduced-lunch programs.
  • First Tee – East Baton Rouge Parish ($15,000)
    Led by executive director Henry Pointer, Louisiana’s first Black PGA professional, this chapter maintains deep partnerships with local schools and nonprofits.

First Tee celebrates National Coaches Day with launch of video series showcasing coach philosophy 

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL (Oct. 6, 2025) – In celebration of National Coaches Day, national youth development organization First Tee is proud to announce the launch of a new video series spotlighting the heart of its program: its coaches. 

Titled “Coaching the First Tee Way,” the series offers an inside look at how First Tee coaches across the country create safe, supportive and empowering environments where young people can grow on and off the golf course. The series features real stories, footage and conversations with coaches and parents, highlighting how First Tee’s unique approach goes beyond the game. 

“At First Tee, we believe a coach is more than a teacher; they’re a mentor, role model and positive force in a young person’s life,” said Ryan Graff, vice president of programs at First Tee. “This video series honors the thousands of coaches who bring our mission to life every day and showcases the power of intentional coaching.” 

Every First Tee class is active, social and fun because kids learn best when they’re engaged and supported. Our multilevel training program ensures that coaches are prepared to bring this philosophy to life through four core building blocks: activity based, empowering youth, continuous learning and mastery driven. This holistic approach doesn’t just make kids better golfers, it helps them thrive in school, at home and in life. The series is designed to inspire current and future coaches, while offering insights into how First Tee integrates life skills and values into every coaching moment. 

Research from First Tee and The Harris Poll shows that coaches leave a lasting impact that can extend into adulthood. More than 90% of parents with grown children say they’ve seen firsthand how youth sports can shape a child’s future.   

The first installment of “Coaching the First Tee Way” is available now on Instagram and firsttee.org, with additional episodes rolling out weekly through October. 

First Tee hosts 2025 Innovators Forum empowering young leaders to drive positive change 

The annual event convenes teen leaders from across the country to build community impact projects 

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. (Oct. 3, 2025) – Youth development organization First Tee is proud to announce the return of its Innovators Forum, an annual workshop that equips and empowers teens from across the country to develop a meaningful service project to implement in their community. 

Held from Oct. 2-5 in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, home of the PGA TOUR, the 2025 First Tee Innovators Forum will bring together a select group of exceptional teen participants selected for their dedication to community service, leadership potential and innovative spirit. 

The event provides an immersive experience, where teens will hear case studies from organizations like CapTech and Constellation, focusing on how they have used innovation to drive impact. Ultimately, teens will design and pitch service projects that address real challenges in their communities.  

“Innovators Forum exemplifies what First Tee is all about: empowering the next generation to be changemakers on and off the course,” said Jennifer Weiler, senior vice president of network relations at First Tee. “These young leaders are not only passionate about golf but also about making a difference, and this event helps give them the tools to do it.” 

Past forums have resulted in impactful projects ranging from environmental sustainability initiatives to mental health awareness campaigns and inclusive golf programs for underserved populations. Teens who execute the most impactful projects have the opportunity to earn stipends, with more than $25,000 awarded in 2024 to support their educational endeavors after high school. 

In addition to including presentations from leaders in sports, business and social innovation, this year’s Innovators Forum will include an afternoon spent at Constellation Furyk & Friends, where participants will get to see legendary golfers and experience the natural beauty of Timuquana Country Club. 

Margaret Kerr of First Tee – Greater Houston, Julio Rodas-Rhim of First Tee – Metropolitan New York win pro-junior titles at 2025 PURE Insurance Championship  

Kerr and Rodas-Rhim were paired with pros Steven Alker and David Bransdon respectively 

PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. (Sept. 21, 2025) – After a week of exciting competition and personal growth, Margaret Kerr of Friendswood, Texas, and Julio Rodas-Rhim of New York City are the junior winners of the 2025 PURE Insurance Championship impacting First Tee, an official PGA TOUR Champions event, which concluded Sunday at Pebble Beach.  

Both Kerr and Rodas-Rhim sealed their victories Sunday with birdies on Pebble Beach’s iconic par-3 17th hole. Kerr and Alker finished 18-under to win by one stroke. Rodas-Rhim and Bransdon finished 16-under and won in a scorecard playoff. 

For more than 20 years, the PURE Insurance Championship has provided First Tee participants with the unique opportunity to showcase the skills and values they’ve gained through the program. Held at the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill Golf Course, the tournament pairs 80 standout teens from First Tee Chapters nationwide with PGA TOUR Champions players and amateurs from the business community. The annual event was broadcast internationally on Golf Channel. 

“This week, the 80 young representatives of First Tee demonstrated perseverance, personality and exceptional talent on the course,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of First Tee. “We extend our congratulations to Margaret and Julio on their outstanding victory. And we are sincerely grateful to PURE Insurance, Chevron, Monterey Peninsula Foundation, PGA TOUR Champions players, Golf Channel and all our generous partners for helping make this an unforgettable experience for our participants.” 

First Tee – Greater Houston’s Margaret Kerr is a 16-year-old junior at Clear Springs High School, who’s been playing golf for 10 years. She referees lacrosse games, fosters dogs and completed Ace, First Tee’s capstone program designed to help teens prepare for the future. 

“I don’t even think I can put it in words; life doesn’t feel real right now,” Kerr said. “I was so supported this week by not only my pro, but his caddie, his family – everybody.” 

First Tee – Metropolitan New York’s Rodas-Rhim is a 17-year-old senior at Fordham Preparatory School. In addition to earning a black belt in martial arts, he has been playing golf for 13 years. He was the New York State Catholic High School Athletic Association’s 2025 individual champion, and he plans to attend college somewhere warm so he can play golf all year. 

“I’m very grateful for this experience,” Rodas-Rhim said. “I really wanted to make my grandparents proud because they got me into golf in the first place, and them getting to see me on TV is probably a dream come true of mine.” 

During the week, First Tee partners PURE Insurance and Chevron celebrated their commitment to First Tee’s mission and raised additional funds to support the First Tee College Scholarship Program through special events. The program pairs select First Tee alumni with a mentor and provides professional development workshops and financial assistance throughout their college experience.  

This week, leaders from PURE Insurance surprised Malakai Jazayeri of First Tee – Phoenix and Ashton Washington of First Tee – Tampa Bay with invitations to become the newest members of the First Tee College Scholarship Program. 

First Tee is a youth development organization that teaches life skills and helps kids and teens build their strength of character through golf. The PURE Insurance Championship is one of several national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters to encourage and motivate participants as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities.  

To access photos from the event, visit here. For more information on the tournament, visit PUREInsuranceChampionship.com. To learn more about First Tee and see the full field list, visit FirstTee.org.