Blog – Page 2 – First Tee – Greater San Antonio

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.

From the golf course to the spotlight: First Tee participant Cienna Collado brings her passion to TGL

First Tee – Florida Gold Coast participant Cienna Collado aspires to a career in entertainment, and she’s found a unique way to boost her resume that incorporates her love of golf.

Through her First Tee chapter, Cienna earned the opportunity to serve as a ball runner for TGL, professional golf’s newest innovation. Her responsibilities include handing players their golf balls, announcing club selections and retrieving balls after they’re hit. But it’s the unexpected moments that make the experience truly special.

“My most memorable moment was when I was working one of the L.A. matches and Shonda Rhimes was sitting behind me the whole time,” Cienna said. “I was absolutely freaking out because I love her show ‘Scandal.’ After the match I actually got to meet her and she was the sweetest person. It will definitely be a memory I remember for a long time.”

A First Tee journey rooted in values

Cienna’s path to TGL began with her family’s decision to join First Tee. When her private golf instructor joined the organization, her family was drawn to First Tee’s values and mission. “It has come to be one of the best decisions we have ever made,” she said.

Through the program, Cienna has learned lessons that extend far beyond the golf course. “First Tee has taught me the importance of integrity,” she explains. “Especially on the golf course, no one is there to hold you accountable except for yourself. Through golf I’ve learned how much the game is a reflection of life. No one is standing by me all the time to hold me accountable, I have to do that myself.”

Breaking barriers in entertainment

While golf plays a significant role in Cienna’s life, her true passion lies in TV and film production. She’s heavily involved in her school’s production academy, competing at district, state and national levels. In her own time, she creates vlogs, produces and directs content, acts, anchors, reports and even hosts a podcast.

Looking ahead, Cienna has a clear vision for her future: pursuing a career in the entertainment industry while using her platform to inspire the next generation of female golfers.

“There is a severe shortage of female golf representation for young girls to look up to,” she said. “Even if I don’t play on the LPGA Tour, golf is a part of me and my story. I plan to be in a position where I would get to share that story and make an impact on the younger generation of female golfers.”

From the SoFi Center to the golf course and behind the lens, Cienna is well on her way to creating the representation she wishes to see in the world.

From the First Tee to the Boardroom: Stories of Success- Sahara Washington

Some stories begin with a single swing. For Sahara Washington, that swing happened at age three, and it set the course for everything that followed.

At First Tee – Greater San Antonio, we envision a lifelong pathway for every child who walks through our doors. We believe that by nurturing a child’s potential from that very first swing to the boardroom, we are shaping generations of game changers who lead with integrity, serve with purpose, and create a lasting impact. Sahara’s story is proof that this vision is real.

The Beginning: More Than a Game

Sahara grew up in San Antonio, the daughter of two parents who met while serving in the Air Force. Athletics were always a priority in the Washington household. Both of her parents were high school athletes, and they were determined to find a sport that would shape their daughter’s character just as much as her skills. When her father picked up golf and started heading to the range, he brought Sahara along. What happened next surprised even him.

First Tee – Greater San Antonio didn’t normally accept participants under age four. But when staff saw Sahara swing, they made an exception. At three years old, she had something, and the program welcomed her in.

That first tee moment was more than an introduction to a sport. It was the beginning of a journey that would cultivate the character, confidence, and resilience she would carry with her for the rest of her life.

Elementary School: Building a Foundation

In those early years, First Tee wasn’t about competition. It was about community. Sahara remembers it as a place full of kids her age, caring coaches, and the kind of fun that makes a child want to come back every Saturday. The program provided clubs, instruction, and, just as importantly for a young military family, it was free.

“It just really felt like a community,” Sahara recalls. “I still have friends from those early years.”

Her parents enrolled her in local and national tournaments as she grew, and it became clear that Sahara had real talent. But more than winning, she was developing something deeper: a love for the game rooted in joy and belonging, and a growing sense of who she was.

Middle School: The Shift to Serious

By sixth grade, something had changed. Sahara had transferred to a private school where she was the only girl on the golf team, and she was beginning to separate herself in junior golf tournaments. She started working with a private coach. Her parents were investing in her future. And she started doing the math.

“I think I knew in sixth grade that it had switched,” she says. “I knew I could probably get recruited. I knew I could go D1.”

First Tee remained a cornerstone throughout. While her private coaching was intense and her father pushed her hard, First Tee felt different. It was a place of encouragement, not pressure, where coaches asked what could be improved rather than tearing her down. The life skills being woven into every session weren’t just lessons on a curriculum. They were becoming part of who Sahara was.

High School: Pressure, Purpose, and Pebble Beach

High school golf brought a new level of intensity. Recruiting scouts. Tournament pressure. The weight of being a young minority woman in a sport that didn’t always look like her. Some days, the mental game was harder than the physical one.

But First Tee gave her somewhere to exhale.

Sahara brought her high school teammates to Saturday sessions. She earned a spot at First Tee’s national opportunity at Pebble Beach at age 15. She volunteered with the Tiny Tigers program, giving back to the same classes that had shaped her. And through all of it, the life and leadership skills she had been building since age three, including sportsmanship, resilience, gratitude, and confidence, were becoming second nature.

“It really was an escape,” she says. “The First Tee was consistent. It was always a place where I could reinforce healthier habits and be around people who were lifting me up.”

This is what First Tee’s mission looks like in real life: not just teaching kids to play golf, but inspiring them to contribute positively to their teams, their communities, and eventually the world around them.

Her junior year, she won the state championship. Around the same time, she got a call from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

College: A Full Scholarship and Five Years of Growth

Sahara had always known she wanted to go out West, somewhere warm, somewhere with resources, somewhere that felt right. She wasn’t even sure Hawaii had a university. But when their coaches flew to watch her compete in a Las Vegas tournament, one she won, she knew.

She flew to Honolulu. She committed on the spot.

The University of Hawaii offered her a full athletic scholarship, a life-changing opportunity made possible by years of dedication, discipline, and the kind of character that coaches notice. She went on to play golf at Hawaii for four years, then transferred to a Division II school in Texas for a fifth year while earning her MBA with a focus in international business.

In college, First Tee came with her. Sahara connected with the First Tee chapter in Hawaii and got her teammates involved in volunteering. The values she had carried from San Antonio showed up on the course in entirely new ways, including during 36-hole days in pouring rain, when she was cold, exhausted, and had to dig deep just to finish.

“I’d reflect back on those values,” she says. “I’ve done this before. I’m prepared for this. Trust the training.”

That is resilience. That is what First Tee builds, not just for the golf course, but for every storm life brings.

After the Final Round: A Career Built on Character

Sahara graduated and came home to San Antonio, stepping almost immediately into a professional role. Today she works as a Senior Analyst in supply chain and procurement for CBRE, serving the USAA account. She recently completed her second master’s degree in data science, a testament to the same drive and love of growth that has defined her since she first picked up a club.

She has volunteered with Meals on Wheels. She has mentored others. And she has come full circle in the most meaningful way possible: Sahara Washington now serves on the Board of Directors for First Tee – Greater San Antonio.

The same organization that welcomed a three-year-old who wasn’t quite old enough to join. The same coaches who lifted her up when the game felt heavy. The same Saturday community that helped her become who she is.

“I would not be as successful without the First Tee,” she says. “It guided me through tough times. It made me a better person.”

The Lesson Behind the Legacy

“First Tee to the Boardroom” is more than a phrase. It is a promise that every child who walks through our doors is stepping onto a pathway that extends far beyond the golf course. A pathway built on character, confidence, and resilience. On life skills and leadership. On the belief that how you carry yourself matters just as much as how you play the game.

Sahara Washington is proof that this pathway is real. And she is not the exception. She is the vision, one game changer among many, shaped by a community that believed in her from the very first swing.

Sahara Washington is a board member of First Tee – Greater San Antonio and a Senior Analyst at CBRE. She holds an MBA and an MS in Data Science, and has been a part of the First Tee family for over two decades.

Why ‘one and done’ doesn’t work: the science behind how your child learns life skills

By Kristin Westberg – Senior Director, Training & Evaluation

Think about how your child learned to ride a bike. Did they master it after one explanation? Of course not. They practiced over and over, fell down, tried again and eventually, it clicked.

That’s exactly how First Tee’s life skills work, too.

When your child learns about STAR (Stop, Think, Anticipate, Respond) during their first golf session, they’re just getting introduced to the concept. But they’re also focused on their grip, wondering if they’ll make the putt, and probably thinking about what’s for dinner. That first exposure is just the beginning.

The real learning happens through repetition

The magic happens when your child encounters STAR again and again in different situations. Maybe their coach references it after a bad shot: “Remember STAR? Let’s stop for a second. What happened there?” Now they’re connecting it to a real moment of frustration.

Each time First Tee coaches revisit a life skill, they’re helping your child see patterns and build a framework they can access when emotions run high. They’re showing that these aren’t just things “Coach says” but tools they can apply off the golf course.

Take the 4 Rs: Relax, Replay, Ready, Redo. The first time a coach walks your child through this after a mishit, they’re hearing four steps while feeling embarrassed. But by the fifth or tenth time, you’ll start seeing them do it on their own. They’ll take a deep breath, step back, and reset — not because someone explained it perfectly once, but because their coach consistently showed them how.

What the science says

Here’s what research tells us about how kids learn (and what you probably already know from watching your own child):

Kids need to see concepts in multiple contexts before they can transfer them. Their brains are literally building neural pathways that get stronger each time they practice. One exposure creates awareness. Multiple exposures create competence. In fact, learning research suggests people typically need about seven exposures to new information before they can truly retain and apply it, which is why consistent coaching across different situations matters so much.

Developmentally, your child isn’t the same kid they were six months ago. The 8-year-old who needed help thinking through consequences is now 9 and ready to anticipate them more independently. When coaches revisit life skills, they’re meeting your child where they are now.

You might hear your child’s coach reference the same life skill multiple times throughout the season, and that’s intentional. They’re not being redundant; they’re being effective. Here’s how First Tee coaches reinforce learning:

Naming it when they see it. When your child demonstrates grit or uses a life skill independently, coaches call it out in the moment.
Connecting across contexts. Coaches reference the same life skill in different situations – on the green, on the range, in the classroom and more.
Asking reflection questions at the end of each class. “Where else have you used STAR this week?”
Modeling it themselves. Coaches let participants see them using these skills when facing their own challenges.
Celebrating progress, not perfection. Coaches notice when your child applies a life skill even imperfectly because that’s growth.

Supporting this learning at home

The beauty of First Tee’s approach is that these skills extend far beyond the golf course. When you hear your child mention STAR, the 4 Rs, or FAIL (First Attempt In Learning), you can reinforce what they’re learning:

Ask them to explain the skill to you
Notice when they use it at home and acknowledge it
Reference it yourself during challenging moments
Be patient — just like with golf, mastery takes time

The goal isn’t to “cover” a life skill once and check the box. The goal is to help your child internalize these skills so deeply that they become automatic, building something that lasts long after their time on the golf course.

So when you hear the same concepts come up again and again throughout the season, know that it’s all part of the plan. Each conversation, each reminder, each connection is building the foundation for the game changer your child is becoming.

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.

Encouraging every player to shine: How First Tee addresses gaps in golf skills

If you’ve ever worried about signing your child up for a new activity because they might be “behind” other kids, you’re not alone. It’s a common concern among parents, and one we hear when families are considering First Tee programs.

Here’s what we want you to know: At First Tee, we’ve designed our approach so that every participant can learn, grow and have fun, regardless of where they start.

We’ve found kids and teens genuinely enjoy being around their peers. That’s why most First Tee Chapters offer age-based programming, rather than grouping kids by skill level. This allows players to connect, laugh and learn from each other in ways that transcend golf skills.

“First Tee coaches intentionally create optimal learning environments for participant success — fostering friendship, golf skill development and fun on the course,” said Lauren Kyaw, manager of First Tee’s coach program. “Through coaching strategies and coachable moments, coaches meet participants where they are and guide them toward mastery.”

But we also know that a 10-year-old who’s never held a golf club has different needs than a 10-year-old who plays regularly. That’s why our coaches take a thoughtful, individualized approach within each class.

How we make it work

At the start of each session, our coaches determine where each participant stands with their golf skills, not through an assessment but by observing their performance in fun games and drills. This isn’t about labeling anyone or creating pressure but about understanding how we can best support each player’s journey.

From there, we use several strategies to ensure everyone is appropriately challenged and engaged:

Personal Par is one of our favorite concepts. Instead of holding everyone to the same standard, we encourage each player to set their own goals for activities. A beginner might aim to make contact with the ball three times in a row, while a more advanced player might work on hitting a specific target. Both students are working hard, both are achieving something meaningful and both are experiencing success.

Flexible grouping means that while the class stays together as a unit, we’ll group players by skill level when introducing more complex techniques. At the same time, we intentionally pair advanced players with beginners during team challenges. This builds camaraderie across skill levels and allows everyone to contribute their strengths.

Optimal challenge ensures that activities cater to multiple skill levels. Every student faces appropriate challenges … not too easy, not too frustrating, but just right for where they are in their development.

The power of peer mentorship

Here’s something special that happens when you mix skill levels: advanced players become natural leaders and mentors. We’ve seen countless students light up when given the opportunity to help a classmate or demonstrate a skill. This doesn’t just reinforce their own learning, it builds confidence, empathy and leadership abilities that extend far beyond the golf course.

Many chapters also offer teen activities where golf isn’t the focus. From opportunities to build leadership skills, like teen advisory boards, to social events, like movie nights, bowling and other outings, these activities allow players of all skill levels to interact and build friendships off the course.

Coaching that adapts to each student

Our coaches understand that feedback isn’t one-size-fits-all. A student who’s just starting out might need encouragement and simple adjustments, while a more experienced player might benefit from more technical guidance. Our coaches modify their feedback to fit each player’s needs and learning style, ensuring that everyone receives the support that will help them improve.

Your child doesn’t need to know anything about golf to thrive in a First Tee program. They don’t need to be naturally athletic or have prior experience. They just need to show up ready to try, to learn and to be part of a community that values growth over perfection.

“Regardless of participants’ golf skill level, coaches bridge activities back to everyday life, helping youth overcome challenges, set goals and deal with adversity,” Kyaw said. “This ties back to First Tee’s mission and purpose: empowering participants to build character and instill life-enhancing values through golf, values they will carry far beyond the course.”

Learn more about supporting First Tee.

2026 Game Changer Luncheon Presented by PNC Celebrates Community, Leadership, and Youth Impact

The 2026 Game Changer Luncheon presented by PNC took place on February 4 at the San Antonio Country Club, bringing together community leaders, corporate partners, coaches, volunteers, families, and First Tee participants for a morning celebrating impact, leadership, and youth development. The luncheon honored our participants, as well as those who invest in young people, champion life skills learned through golf, and support First Tee’s mission in the San Antonio community.

Keynote speaker Sean Elliott inspired attendees with a message about perseverance, leadership, and giving back. Elliott played 12 seasons in the NBA, including 11 with the San Antonio Spurs, and was a member of the Spurs’ first NBA Championship team in 1999, remembered for his iconic “Memorial Day Miracle” three-pointer. Beyond his basketball career, he continues to impact the San Antonio community through mentorship and youth initiatives, making his message especially meaningful to First Tee participants.

To view photos from this event, click here.

Meet Our Winners

Distinguished Foundation Award – The Harvey E. Najim Charitable Foundation

The Harvey E. Najim Charitable Foundation was recognized for their ongoing support of youth and community initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to empowering young people through mentorship, resources, and engagement. They also act as the anchor partner for First Tee’s school program.

Mary Carriker Commitment Award – Dr. Fred Preston

Dr. Fred Preston was recognized for his more than 20 years of volunteer service with First Tee, where he has used golf to mentor and inspire young people while teaching confidence, perseverance, respect, and integrity.

Volunteer of the Year – Luis Servin

Luis Servin was named Volunteer of the Year for his dedication to mentoring First Tee participants through golf. A Level 1 Coach, Luis began volunteering in 2024 and quickly stepped into a lead coaching role, teaching multiple classes while continuing to volunteer on Saturdays. His commitment to participants and passion for the game make a lasting impact on the chapter.

Coach of the Year – Douglas Carlton, PGA

Douglas Carlton, a First Tee Level 3 Coach, was named Coach of the Year for his outstanding dedication to teaching the game of golf while developing confidence, perseverance, sportsmanship, and respect in participants. Since beginning his volunteer service in 2020, Doug has led classes across every age division and, in 2025 alone, taught more than 150 hours while working with over 250 participants, making a lasting impact on the chapter and community.

Courtesy Award – Liam Garcia

Liam has been a participant in First Tee since 2024 and is currently a 3rd-grade, homeschooled student. One of his most memorable First Tee moments in 2025 was meeting tour professional Kevin Velo at the First Tee driving range and watching him compete at the Valero Open. Liam consistently demonstrates courtesy through his respect for others and eagerness to learn from coaches and peers.

Honesty Award – Grayson Dockens

Grayson has been participating in First Tee for four years and is currently a 7th-grade student at Church Hill Middle School. His most memorable First Tee moment was hitting his longest drive yet at the Kissing Tree driving range, an experience that boosted his confidence. Grayson exemplifies honesty by holding himself accountable and leading by example.

Integrity Award – Emily Hartley

Emily, an 8th grader at BASIS Shavano, has been part of First Tee for the past three years. Her favorite memories include mastering the rules of the game, competing in games and challenges at DSP, and meeting PGA professionals at the First Tee Learning Center during the Valero Open. Emily consistently displays integrity through her respect for the game and commitment to personal growth.

Respect Award – Gabriela Rendon

Gaby is a 5th-grade homeschooled student who has been part of First Tee for four years. Her most memorable moment in 2025 was participating in the Gobble Games, where she enjoyed learning new skills from each coach she met at the different stations. Gaby demonstrates respect by treating coaches, peers, and the game itself with care and consideration.

Responsibility Award – Timothy Petter

Tim is a senior at Petter Christian Academy and has been a participant in First Tee for more than 10 years. In 2025, his favorite memories included attending the Innovators Forum in Florida, where he connected with peers and collaborated on community projects, and representing the San Antonio First Tee chapter at the Texas Cup in Houston alongside his teammates. Tim exemplifies responsibility through his dedication to both his community and his personal growth.

Good Judgment Award – Railynn Gonzales

Railynn began her First Tee journey in February 2022 and is currently a junior at East Central High School. Her favorite memories this past year included the opportunity to play alongside her sister at both the Texas Cup and in New Orleans, experiences that made the season especially meaningful. Rai demonstrates good judgment through her decision-making on and off the course, showing maturity and thoughtful consideration in all she does.

Sportsmanship Award – Parker Davis

Parker has been participating in First Tee since January 2024. He is currently in 4th grade and is homeschooled. His favorite moment at First Tee is spending time with his friends and playing “Poison,” a game he finds both fun and challenging. Parker demonstrates sportsmanship by respecting fellow participants and encouraging teamwork on the course.

Perseverance Award – Aaron Ozuna

Aaron is a 5th-grade student at Forester Elementary who has been involved with First Tee for the past year. In 2025, his favorite memory was winning a “putt-off” challenge alongside his partner during the fall session with Coach Chris—a moment that highlighted teamwork, focus, and fun on the course. Aaron embodies perseverance by maintaining effort and focus even in competitive situations.

Confidence Award – Holden Wesling

Holden is a 3rd-grade student at Bill Brown Elementary School and has been involved with First Tee for nearly two years. His most memorable experience was attending the First Tee Valero Texas Open this past spring, where he enjoyed meeting the golfers and was especially excited to be called up by Kevin Velo to hit a ball on the driving range. Holden demonstrates confidence through his willingness to step outside his comfort zone and embrace new challenges.

Game Changer of the Year – Amber Veliz

Amber Rose, a 10th-grade student at C.T. Johnson High School, began her First Tee journey in the summer of 2018. After progressing through the entire program, one of her most meaningful moments in 2025 was leading her own Tiny Tigers class, an experience that helped her grow into a confident and compassionate leader.

Career Achievement Award – Jack Polansky

Jack is a senior at Churchill High School, Varsity Golf Captain, and maintains a 104.5 GPA. He will attend Berry College in fall 2026 to play collegiate golf and has been accepted into Berry’s Honors Program. This past September, Jack competed in the PURE Insurance Championship at Pebble Beach, playing alongside Senior Tour professional Alex Čejka, nearly recording a hole-in-one on the 7th hole, and being interviewed by the Golf Channel. Being told that Paul Azinger admired his swing made the experience one of the most memorable moments of his life.

Career Achievement Award – Jules Mahan

Jules has been a participant in First Tee for nine years and is a senior at Pieper High School in Comal ISD. Her most memorable moment was her entire Pebble Beach experience—from learning she had been selected for the PURE Insurance Championship during a practice round at the First Tee National Championship at Notre Dame to competing at Pebble Beach itself, an opportunity she describes as a true dream come true.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

The success of the 2026 Game Changer Luncheon would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors, whose commitment helps expand access to First Tee programs and opportunities for youth throughout our community.

Title Sponsor

PNC

Event Sponsors

Texas Mutual

City of San Antonio Parks and Recreation

April Ancira

Broadway Bank

Chris Dewar

Donna and Jim Brady

Jane Watson

Kids Are Kids Academy

Security Service Federal Credit Union

Frost Bank

Greg Dreier

Jeff Burns

Joan Kearl and Friends

Joe Adame

Millennium Steel

Nate Murphy

Polansky Family

Want to be a part of next year’s luncheon? Contact Kellen at [email protected] for more information.

If you are inspired to help us continue our mission and create opportunities for more young people, click here to donate and make a difference in the lives of the next generation.

At what age should my child start playing golf?

If you’re wondering when your child is ready to start playing golf, you’re asking the right question. The good news? There’s no single “perfect” age to begin, but there are some helpful guidelines.

Most First Tee chapters offer age-based programming – typically starting with 7–9-year-olds – so participants play alongside their peers, who are usually at similar stages of development in terms of attention span, strength and hand-eye coordination. That said, younger children can certainly be introduced to golf, and some First Tee chapters do this in playful, age-appropriate ways.

It’s about more than the swing

At First Tee, we’ve seen firsthand that starting golf isn’t just about learning to hit a ball: It’s about what the game teaches you along the way. Through golf, kids develop perseverance when a shot doesn’t go as planned, integrity when keeping score and respect for others sharing the course. These character-building moments happen whether your child picks up golf at 7 or 17.

Our programs are designed to meet kids where they are developmentally, focusing on fun, skill-building and life skills education.

Rather than focusing solely on age, consider whether your child:

Shows interest in the game (maybe they’ve watched golf on TV or asked about it)

Can follow basic instructions

Enjoys outdoor activities and trying new things

Is ready to practice patience — golf rewards persistence, not perfection

Starting Points Beyond Age

The right time also depends on the environment you’re introducing them to. Programs like First Tee emphasize inclusivity, character development and creating a welcoming space for beginners. This supportive atmosphere can make all the difference, regardless of when your child starts.

If your child is older and just discovering golf, that’s perfectly fine too. We’ve seen teenagers find their passion for the game and develop the same valuable life skills as those who started younger. Golf is a lifelong sport, and there’s truly no age when it’s “too late” to begin.

Find a First Tee chapter near you and give your child the opportunity to experience the game that teaches so much more than golf.

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.

Building bridges: How First Tee chapters create lasting impact through community partnerships

When First Tee chapters set out to serve young people, they don’t do it alone. The 2025 Barbara A. Douglas and Dr. William J. Powell Community Award winners demonstrate how strategic community partnerships can transform lives and strengthen entire communities.

These three chapters share the common understanding that meaningful impact requires more than programming. It requires building authentic relationships with schools, community organizations and local institutions that share First Tee’s commitment to youth development.

Meeting youth where they are

First Tee – Greater Richmond has mastered the art of bringing golf and life skills directly into students’ daily lives. Through their partnership with Henrico County Public Schools, the chapter hosts over 25 Title I field trips each school year. But they’ve taken accessibility even further with Anna Julia Cooper School, a charter school in Richmond’s East End. What started as a pilot program in 2023 now allows middle school students to select golf as an elective and travel to First Tee’s facilities for immersive curriculum delivery.

The results speak volumes: In 2024, First Tee – Greater Richmond reached more than 70,000 kids and teens, with female participation growing to 42% and over 60% of participants representing ethnically diverse backgrounds.

Leading with representation

First Tee – Birmingham understands that inclusion starts with who’s leading the program. The chapter has intentionally built a leadership structure that reflects the communities it serves, with a diverse board and coaching staff, partnering with HBCUs like Miles College to build this pipeline. It outpaces the First Tee network average, with more than 40% of participants coming from underserved communities, as defined by the Distressed Communities Index.

Through community partnerships with Birmingham City Schools, i3 Academy and the Birmingham Housing Authority, the chapter brings programming directly to students who need it most. Full program scholarships for families who qualify for free and reduced lunch ensure that financial barriers never prevent participation.

Scaling through strategic collaboration

Under the leadership of executive director Henry Pointer, the first African American PGA Professional from Louisiana, First Tee – East Baton Rouge Parish has increased participation by over 110% in just three years.

“Most of our community programs are located in underrepresented areas of the city,” Pointer said. “The fact that I grew up in a community such as that gave me the opportunity to play a part in impacting kids in those areas is a huge benefit to me.”

Its partnership with Baton Rouge Recreation and Parks provides access to five public golf courses, office space and paid staff at no cost to First Tee. But BREC benefits too: First Tee provides valuable data that helps it gain and maintain accreditations.

The chapter’s comprehensive partnership portfolio includes the 100 Black Men, Empower 225, four YMCA locations, the Louisiana National Guard summer youth camp and the Baton Rouge Youth Coalition.

The power of sustainable partnerships

What sets these chapters apart isn’t just the number of partnerships they’ve formed but the intentionality behind them. They seek organizations with similar missions, build relationships that benefit all parties and commit to ongoing engagement.

Community partnerships don’t just expand reach but deepen impact, one young person at a time. The Barbara A. Douglas and Dr. William J. Powell Community Award is presented in partnership with Golf Digest, which will make donations to support the efforts of all three winning chapters.

Vivian D’Orazi: From identifying my strengths to finding my calling

Vivian D’Orazi is an alumna of First Tee — Metropolitan New York and a First Tee Scholar. Now a senior and member of the golf team at York College of Pennsylvania, Vivian reflected on one of the most impactful experiences she had at First Tee:

At just 5 years old, I had no idea how much of an impact First Tee would have on my life. What started as weekly classes quickly turned into something so much more, a community that gave me a coach who feels like family, lifelong friends, and opportunities I never could’ve imagined. Today, I’m playing collegiate golf and pursuing a degree in marketing, all thanks to the foundation First Tee helped me build.

One of the most impactful experiences I’ve had through First Tee was participating in a five-week Leadership Series with PGA Tour Superstore. During this program, which takes place at PGA TOUR Superstore locations across the country, I took a deep dive into who I am, identifying my personal strengths, values, and the direction I wanted to take in life.

As part of the series, we were challenged to explore careers that aligned with our individual strengths and values. I discovered that my top strengths include achiever, arranger, relator, restorative, and belief. My values, integrity, family, teamwork, and helping others, also became clear.

At first, I wasn’t sure how those qualities could translate into a career. But after doing some research and reflection, I realized that marketing might be a good fit. From there, I began exploring the many paths within marketing, and that’s when I found something that truly sparked my interest, event marketing. The idea of creating meaningful experiences for others, moments they’ll remember and enjoy, resonated with me deeply.

I’ve made so many core memories at sporting events as a kid, laughing and cheering with my family and friends. Now, I want to help create those same experiences for other people. That’s where my strengths and values really come to life, through collaboration, creativity, and a desire to bring joy to others.

Leadership Series opened a door I didn’t even know existed. It’s what led me to major in marketing in college, and now, in my senior year, I feel more confident than ever in the path I’m on.

At the end of the five-week series, I was honored to be selected for the First Tee Leadership Summit in partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore in Montana, an experience that took everything to the next level. I rode a horse for the first time, went white water rafting, and took in some of the most breathtaking views I’ve ever seen. But more than that, I stepped outside of my comfort zone in ways I never expected. I took on new challenges, embraced different ways of thinking, and began to view leadership through a broader, more empowering lens.

Being surrounded by other motivated, passionate First Tee participants in such a beautiful place helped me grow not just as a leader, but as a person. It gave me the confidence to use my voice, trust in my abilities, and believe in the power of staying true to my values.

Looking back, I’m incredibly grateful for how far I’ve come, and even more thankful for the experiences and people who helped me get here. From taking my first swing with First Tee to now preparing to graduate college with a clear vision for the future, I wouldn’t trade a minute of the journey.

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Tips for keeping your child engaged with golf this winter

As temperatures drop and days get shorter, it can be challenging to keep junior golfers engaged with the game they’ve grown to love over the summer. But colder weather doesn’t have to mean putting golf on hold.

With a little creativity and intention, parents can help their children maintain the skills and character development they’ve built through First Tee programs.

Turn your living room into a practice space

You don’t need a full golf course to work on fundamentals. If you have space, create an indoor practice area where your child can work on their grip, stance and putting stroke. A simple putting mat or even a makeshift target using household items can keep their motor memory sharp.

The beauty of indoor practice is that it naturally encourages one of our core life skills: discipline. Even a few practice sessions a week helps maintain muscle memory and shows kids the value of consistent effort.

Make it fun for the whole family

Winter is a perfect time to make golf a shared family experience. Watch professional tournaments together and talk about the life skills you see on display, including how players handle disappointment, show respect to competitors or demonstrate perseverance through a tough round.

Many communities have golf simulators where the junior golfers can join their whole family to play together regardless of the weather outside. These shared experiences reinforce that golf is a lifelong pursuit that brings people together.

Stay connected to the First Tee community

Encourage your child to stay connected with their junior golf coaches and fellow participants. Many First Tee Chapters offer winter programming or access to the First Tee app, keeping kids engaged even when they can’t be on the course. These connections remind young people that they’re part of something bigger than themselves.

Perhaps most importantly, continue the conversations that started at First Tee. When your child faces a challenge at school or in their personal life, reference the life skills they’ve learned in the program.

These conversations help cement the understanding that the values learned through golf apply everywhere. Winter is an ideal time to deepen these lessons without the busy pace of summer schedules.