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.
