October 2025 - First Tee - Colorado Rocky Mountains

Creating an inclusive First Tee experience: Partnering with parents to support participants with IEPs and 504 Plans

By Kristin Westberg – Senior Director, Training & Evaluation

At First Tee, we’re committed to helping all young people build character, confidence and life skills through golf. That includes participants with diverse learning needs — some of whom may have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan.

These plans are designed to help students succeed in school, but they can also provide valuable insights for our coaches and volunteers. With participants back in school, now is a perfect time to discuss with your chapter how it can meet your child’s needs. By working closely with families, we can create a more inclusive, supportive and empowering experience for every participant.

Why parent partnerships matter

Parents and caregivers are the best source of knowledge about their child’s strengths, challenges and what helps them thrive. When we build trust and open lines of communication, we can better understand how to support each participant in a way that’s respectful, personalized and effective.

What to share during the intake process

You don’t need to provide chapters with the full IEP or 504 Plan — just the essentials that will help them provide a great experience. Here are a few questions to consider:

Does your child have an IEP or 504 Plan?
Are there specific accommodations or strategies that work well for them?
Are there any triggers or challenges we should be aware of?
What are your child’s strengths and interests?
What helps your child feel safe, confident and included?

This information can be summarized into a simple “Participant Snapshot” for coaches to reference, helping them tailor instruction and interactions in a meaningful way.

Program adaptations that make a big impact

Here are a few adaptations our chapters have made that can help participants with IEPs or 504 Plans thrive:

Visual schedules: They may use boards or laminated sheets to show the day’s activities in order.
Instructional cue cards: They may provide visual prompts for golf skills or life skills as reminders.
Color-coded zones: They often use cones or other items to mark areas and support transitions.
Behavior supports: They may offer “break cards” or “feelings charts” to help participants communicate their needs.

These tools support not only students with learning differences but also help all participants feel more confident and engaged.

The Power of Listening and Learning

By listening to families, being flexible and showing a willingness to adapt and learn, First Tee Chapters can create spaces where all kids feel valued and supported.

How to Teach Kids Golf: Tips from Denver’s First Tee Experts

If you’re a golf fan, you know that the sport not only hones athletic skills but also fosters essential life skills such as patience, focus, and integrity. Early exposure to golf can cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the sport, while also teaching children important values like discipline and respect. In Denver and surrounding areas, First Tee – Colorado Rocky Mountains knows how to teach kids golf in a structured and encouraging setting. First Tee not only emphasizes the fundamentals of golf but also integrates lessons in leadership and character development, making it an excellent choice for young learners eager to embark on their golfing journey.

Understanding the Basics

When teaching kids to golf, one of the first steps is to familiarize them with the equipment they’ll be using on the course. Choosing the right golf clubs for children is crucial—it’s essential to select child-friendly clubs that are appropriately sized and lightweight, making them easier for young players to handle. Investing in a junior set, specifically designed for kids, can help prevent the frustration that comes with using equipment that is too big or too heavy. Understanding that golf equipment is pricey, First Tee provides students with the necessary golf equipment in our lessons, so there’s no need to buy your own clubs.

Some Common Definitions

Introducing children to golf terminology in a fun and accessible way is also important. Simple explanations of common terms such as “par,” which refers to the number of strokes expected to complete a hole, “bogey,” which means one stroke over par, and “birdie,” which indicates one stroke under par, can demystify the game’s jargon. The same is true for parts of the course; a basic overview of the different parts of a course, such as the tee box, fairway, rough, and green, will help kids visualize the game and prepare them for playing on an actual course. By demystifying the equipment and terminology from the outset, young golfers can approach the game with confidence and enthusiasm.

Engaging and Fun Lessons

One of the best ways to fuel a young golfer’s enthusiasm is by incorporating games and challenges into the learning process. These activities not only introduce the rules and techniques but also make them more memorable. Putting contests and skill challenges help specialize in a key aspect of the sport in a more digestible manner. Kids are naturally curious and eager to explore, so blending structured teaching with time for them to freely practice what they’ve learned helps solidify their understanding.

Lesson Structure

When planning sessions, focus on keeping them short and simple. Young children have relatively brief attention spans, and lengthy lessons can lead to disinterest or frustration. Aim for sessions that last around 30 to 45 minutes, adjusting based on the child’s age and interest level. Breaking longer lessons into manageable chunks allows for better retention of information. During these breaks, allow kids to socialize, enjoy snacks, or just relax. This downtime is crucial for keeping them engaged over multiple sessions and prevents burnout.

Key Techniques and Skills

If you’re interested in how to teach kids golf, you need to be able to teach a few basic skills to get them started, instilling good habits from day 1.

Grip: Guide kids in learning the proper grip by demonstrating how to hold the club. Encourage them to try the interlocking grip, which is commonly used by beginners. Show them how to position their hands so that the club feels comfortable and secure. Encourage them to practice holding the club at home, even outside of practice sessions, to reinforce muscle memory.

Stance: Demonstrating the correct stance helps establish balance and stability. Start by showing how to position their feet shoulder-width apart, and explain the importance of staying relaxed yet attentive. Use visual aids or mirrors so they can see their posture and make adjustments as needed.

Swing: Breaking down the swing into manageable steps can help kids focus on each part of the process. Begin with smaller swings, teaching them how to move the club back, transfer weight, and follow through smoothly. Encourage repetition, and provide gentle corrections to refine their techniques over time.

Instilling Values and Etiquette

Knowing how to teach kids golf goes beyond the sport itself. At First Tee, we know how important golf etiquette is in developing respectful and considerate athletes. Encourage your young golfer to display patience, not just with the game but also with themselves and their peers. Emphasize the importance of respecting fellow players, the course, and the game’s traditions. Introduce them to golf etiquette concepts like maintaining silence while others are swinging, waiting for their turn, and remaining aware of their surroundings to prevent accidents and misunderstandings.

Choosing the Right Environment

Where your child learns can be just as important as what your child learns. A supportive environment where kids of all skill levels and backgrounds are welcomed is ideal. Junior golf programs at First Tee are specifically designed to cater to children’s needs, providing professional coaching, tailored lessons, and a supportive community of peers. We’ve been teaching golf to children for decades, creating a space where kids are supported on and off the course with scholarship opportunities, leadership development, and community outreach programs. Contact First Tee today and ignite a lifelong passion for golf in your child.

From course to career: Coach Stuart demonstrates the transformative power of First Tee mentors

Accenture, a global professional services company and First Tee Trustee, hosts a personal development session for staff members at its Atlanta office on the first Friday of each month. Stuart Furlow had no idea one of these workshops would lead to one of the most rewarding experiences of his professional life. While working as a manufacturing and operations consultant, Stuart was also looking for a way to give back, and First Tee – Metro Atlanta provided the perfect opportunity.

Growing up, Stuart learned golf from his father, uncle and cousin. The game had been a part of his life, but he’d never considered becoming a coach. “It was perfect timing,” Stuart said about discovering First Tee. “I just finished a project and heard about the volunteer opportunity. I wanted to be a mentor. I wanted to teach the game of golf and learn about First Tee.” Little did Stuart know, he would create a meaningful relationship with a participant named Ethan, helping to shape his bright future ahead.

A mentorship built on more than golf

Ethan Herndon didn’t take up golf by choice. When his dad first brought him to First Tee – Metro Atlanta at 8 years old, he went “begrudgingly,” following in his older sister’s footsteps. But that day changed everything. While golf can be portrayed as a sport for older and wealthier people, “First Tee is the opposite of that – it’s for everybody,” he said.

For the next decade, Ethan returned to John A. White Golf Course every Saturday. By the time Stuart joined First Tee as a coach three years ago, Ethan was a high school freshman starting to think seriously about his future.

Stuart immediately noticed something special about Ethan. “His work ethic: He was always one of the first kids out there, starting before we even got the chance to begin our actual lesson,” Stuart said. “We started talking and learning more about each other. I learned what he was interested in, what his aspirations were, and I started to add a little bit of feedback and my own perspective.”

For Ethan, Stuart became more than just a golf coach. “He had a lot of advice that was very beneficial to me: looking at majors, programs, scholarships, things I hadn’t heard from other people before,” Ethan said. “He gave me a different outlook.”

What made Stuart’s mentorship particularly meaningful was his genuine concern for Ethan’s overall wellbeing. “While shooting low scores and hitting good shots are important, Coach Stuart always wanted to make sure we were doing good in school, mentally, physically, and that everything was going well,” Ethan said. “He was truly concerned about our wellbeing and how we were as people versus just golfers.”

The power of partnership

Stuart’s commitment to First Tee reflects Accenture’s broader values. “The partnership between Accenture and First Tee is something that Accenture takes great pride in,” Stuart said. “We continuously talk about making an impact in the communities we serve.”

But for Stuart, the impact goes beyond corporate social responsibility; it’s personal. Stuart sees his role as helping participants like Ethan navigate life with the benefit of his own experience.

Through the Hope Tee Shot and other programs, Accenture’s support of First Tee and its Metro Atlanta chapter extend beyond participants’ time in high school. “It doesn’t stop after you leave the program,” Stuart said. “We want to continue supporting current students and alumni through all the avenues of life.”

Today, Ethan has spent 10 years with First Tee – Metro Atlanta, transforming from a reluctant golfer into a young man with clear goals and the confidence to pursue them. Stuart’s mentorship played a crucial role in that journey, not just teaching him about golf, but helping him understand the possibilities ahead.

Their story demonstrates the true mission of First Tee: using golf as a vehicle to build character and teach life skills that extend far beyond the course. And for volunteers like Stuart, it’s proof that giving back can be one of the most rewarding experiences of all.

Learn more about how you can support young people like Ethan.

After-School Golf Program for Kids of All Ages and Skill Levels

In recent years, golf has seen a surge in popularity among children, transforming from a traditionally adult-dominated sport into a beloved activity for young enthusiasts. This growing interest can be attributed to the emphasis on skill development, personal growth, and the unique opportunities the sport provides for children to engage in physical activity while enjoying the great outdoors. As more parents seek ways to introduce their children to golf, an after-school golf program emerges as a perfect conduit to nurture a lasting love for the game. Founded decades ago, and becoming a trusted source for youth golf instruction nationwide, First Tee is an obvious first choice. The program provides children of all ages and skill levels the chance to learn the sport in a structured, supportive environment, making golf more accessible and enjoyable for young players. The best part? First Tee has a chapter right here in Colorado with a variety of courses serving the Denver area and beyond.

With a focus on building character and promoting life skills, First Tee offers a welcoming and inclusive space for children to develop their golf skills while instilling values that transcend the sport. Through First Tee’s unique approach, children not only learn the technical aspects of golf, but also gain essential life skills such as confidence, respect, and perseverance. Many First Tee participants go on to careers in the golf world, and even those who follow a different path find the skills developed through the program serve them well in any endeavor. All of that makes First Tee a stellar example of how after-school golf programs can inspire a new generation of passionate, skilled golfers and compassionate, confident citizens.

About First Tee – Colorado Rocky Mountains

First Tee – CRM was founded with the vision of making golf accessible to all children, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. Recognizing the valuable life lessons that golf can impart, our organization was determined to create a supportive environment where youth could harness the benefits of the sport while having fun. First Tee’s mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values, and promote healthy choices through the game of golf.

Character development is woven into every aspect of the program, allowing young golfers to grow as individuals as they improve their game. Through engaging activities and thoughtful mentorship, children learn the importance of setting goals, managing their emotions, and persevering through challenges. By prioritizing life skills alongside technical golf training, First Tee – Colorado Rocky Mountains ensures that participants are equipped with the tools they need to navigate life’s various challenges, making them both competent golfers and compassionate community members.

Our Program Structure

The First Tee – Colorado Rocky Mountains offers a dynamic program structure designed to cater to children of all ages and skill levels. Start young golfers on a journey that extends beyond the green with our comprehensive offerings available on Colorado courses near you. Whether participants are trying out golf for the first time or honing their advanced skills, the program ensures flexibility and accessibility throughout the seasons.

Take the Next Step and Find an After-School Golf Program Near You

To learn more about the transformative experiences offered by First Tee – Colorado Rocky Mountains, we warmly invite you to contact us. We can provide detailed information about our curriculum, schedules, locations, and enrollment process. Our team is eager to help guide you in taking the first step toward enriching your child’s life through golf and essential life skills.

We also encourage you to share this opportunity with friends, family, and anyone who may have children interested in joining an after-school golf program that offers both athletic and personal development. By spreading the word, you contribute to building a community of young individuals prepared to tackle the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and integrity. Join us in making a positive impact on the lives of children by supporting the First Tee’s mission of shaping the leaders of the future.

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.

“I want to be the role model others were for me”: Derek Lee’s mission at First Tee – Oakland

Derek Lee of First Tee – Oakland understands the power of service. “For the past two years, I have volunteered as a junior coach and have helped elementary and middle school age kids discover the game of golf,” he said. “I want to be a positive role model and mentor for them, just as others were for me when I was their age.”

Now a high school junior, Derek joined the chapter as a participant when he was 7 years old, but it closed a couple years later. He took a break from golf until the COVID-19 pandemic made it one of the few activities available to kids. Then when First Tee – Oakland relaunched in 2023, Derek eagerly rejoined as a junior coach.

“Knowing I am helping to spark their interest in something that I myself love and am passionate about is incredibly rewarding,” he said. “It reminds me how impactful volunteering can be, and it motivates me to keep giving back to my community.”

Derek’s passion for helping others is a big part of the reason he’ll be the first participant from the re-opened First Tee – Oakland chapter to attend a national participant event. He’s heading across the country to Jacksonville, Florida, to take part in Innovators Forum this week.

At Innovators Forum, each participant develops a plan for a community service project they execute when they return home. Derek aspires to create expanded program offerings for First Tee – Oakland to ensure that younger kids remain engaged with the chapter and see their golf and life skills grow.

During Innovators Forum, Derek and his cohort will hear case studies from leaders at organizations like CapTech and Constellation, and they’ll attend Constellation FURYK & FRIENDS to see legendary golfers like Ernie Els and Vijay Singh.

When he’s back in Oakland, Derek aspires to take his own golf game to new heights. Already a plus-handicap player, he has big goals: “I strive to play in the most challenging tournaments I can, so I can show myself and coaches that I have the skills and can go toe-to-toe with some of the best junior golfers in the world,” he said. Ultimately, he aims to play collegiate golf at a top academic school.

Support First Tee programming for exceptional teens like Derek.