Character Education Archives - First Tee - Colorado Rocky Mountains

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 17^th 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.

Guidance and growth: Inside the bond between a First Tee Scholar, mentor

One of the most impactful aspects of the First Tee College Scholarship Program is mentorship. Each Scholar is matched with a dedicated adult to support them as they enter college and prepare for life after graduation.

First Tee Scholar Esther Etherington is a senior at Franklin College, where she’s majoring in elementary education and nonprofit leadership with plans to enter the golf industry. Last summer, Esther interned with First Tee — Greater Charleston’s Pathfinder Program and served as a USGA Pathways intern at the U.S. Open. This past summer, Esther worked at her former chapter, First Tee — Indiana, as the site director in Richmond. Her team helped to successfully launch three new community partnerships with the Boys & Girls Club, Girls Inc. and Townsend Community Center, reaching its highest number of participants since COVID-19, 160 youth.

Esther’s mentor is Hope Oaks, a Ball State University graduate. Hope is a health science systems specialist at Pfizer, Inc., and she currently serves on the board of directors for the Indiana Golf Foundation and the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation.

They shared their experience and tips on building a successful mentor-mentee relationship.

FT: Describe your experience as a Scholar mentor.

HO: I felt honored when asked to be Esther’s mentor because I had already been a witness to her leadership at First Tee when she would speak at our fundraising events while she was in high school. Her confidence, authenticity and desire to share the gifts she was given resonated with me.

FT: How did you build trust with your mentee?

HO: My experience has been that trust is built with time and keeping commitments with one another. My mentors have set a good example for me by creating a safe space to share questions, challenges, goals, disappointments, frustrations and the emotions that go with them. It’s vital to know you can 100% show up and express your true self.

FT: What is one word you’d use to describe your mentoring relationship and why?

HO: Joy. Whenever the next thing on the calendar is coming up that we have set, I know that our time together will result in a happy spirit and a positive memory. Esther inspires me and we both have similar humor.

FT: Describe a memorable moment you’ve shared with your mentee.

HO: One of my favorite moments was this summer when I spent the day observing and volunteering at Esther’s First Tee location in Richmond. Her organization and leadership skills are to be coveted. It was so much fun to see it all in action with her coaches, volunteers and students. She was truly sharing her gifts with the world. The parents were happy their kids were in the program, and you could see the kids were delighted to be there and having fun while learning. Esther is a connection and networking queen, and she built a successful program in less than six months from scratch because of her reputation and genuine relationships in her community. She connects with each child at their level: kindness, care, thoughtfulness and fun are all in her bag of superpowers. She continues to inspire me as an example and I’m grateful for the opportunity this program has afforded us.

FT: How has your mentor helped you feel more confident or prepared for life after college?

EE: Hope has helped me feel more prepared for life after college by celebrating and capitalizing on my strengths. Her perspective has provided valuable connections, advice and friendship which has made me a better and more well-rounded person.

FT: How do you feel your relationship with your mentor has changed your college experience?

EE: The relationship that I have with Hope has been a transformative part of my college experience because she is a close member on my “go to” team. Hope is always a phone call or text message away.

FT: Drawing from what you’ve observed in your peers’ mentoring relationships, what advice would you share with someone just starting out as a mentor?

EE: When you are just starting out as a mentor, it is important to remember that the mentor and mentee relationship is a two-way street. Your mentor is there for you in the highs and lows of college and beyond, so effort and transparency are important.

FT: Describe a memorable moment you’ve shared with your mentor.

EE: We have had many memorable moments including going to a Purdue basketball game, the Indy Jazz Kitchen and lots of golf together. At the top of the list includes Hope traveling from Indianapolis when I was the site director at First Tee – Indiana in Richmond to volunteer with the kids.

Back to school: Ohio teacher introduces thousands to golf

Kent Hamilton is an educator based in Canton, Ohio, where he was named the state’s 2024 Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year. In this role, he teaches over 800 students at two schools.

Kent grew up playing golf on his family’s farm, where he would use natural features, like a tree or fence post, as hazards or targets. This creativity has continued to inform the way that he brings physical education to life in the classroom.

A few years ago, Kent began sharing videos of the creative activities his students were doing on Facebook. These videos showcase activities like bowling, basketball choreography and golf, all with the materials available in an elementary school gym. These videos have amassed millions of views, earning Kent recognition on ABC News, The Today Show and others.

“As a PE teacher, I am always trying to advocate for my programs,” Kent said. His goal with sharing these activities on social media was to give a window into his classroom and show that each day is filled with activities that are both fun and intentionally designed to promote learning.

As a member of the First Tee School Program, one of the units that Kent incorporates into his classroom is golf. Throughout this unit, Kent introduces the students to golf in fun and innovative ways, like by creating Topgolf bays or mini golf courses. At the same time, he also introduces them to the life skills that golf can teach. His students learn values like kindness and respect by complimenting each other’s good shots, or the ability to grow through challenge when their shot doesn’t go the way they want it to.

In addition to the physical education, Kent also makes an effort to incorporate additional learning opportunities that go beyond the time his students spend in the classroom. He invited a local author and parent at First Tee – Canton, Tim Satava, to present at a reading night held at the school. Tim read his book, “You and Me Are on the Tee,” to the students in attendance and then answered any questions they had about both golf and reading. After that, the students had the opportunity to set up a mini golf course in the gym and compete against one another.

With all of Kent’s innovation, it is no surprise that he’s earned recognition, like being named a Community Playmaker by the Cleveland Cavaliers.

In the future, Kent hopes to continue to spread learning and joy through physical education and golf, both for the students in his schools and also for the community he has built on social media.

“The school program is so important to give all students the opportunity to be introduced to golf,” Kent said. “There is so much joy in the game of golf.”

Click here to learn more about the First Tee School Program or to get involved at your school.

From SMART goals to bold dreams: Skyler’s leadership journey

For Skyler Xue, an Ace participant at First Tee – Greater Washington DC, taking part in the First Tee Leadership Series in partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore was nothing short of life changing. As a high school junior uncertain about what lay ahead, he found clarity and confidence through the experience, he said.

The five-week workshop, which is held at PGA TOUR Superstore locations across the country, helped him explore his strengths and values, while envisioning a career that blends his passions for golf and STEM. “The staff at PGA TOUR Superstore shared their insights on leadership and resilience, which had a lasting impact on me,” he said.

For Skyler, one of the most impactful sessions focused on goal setting and career planning. Learning how to apply the SMART goals framework helped him map out actionable steps toward his dream of working in sports analytics.

S: Specific
M: Measurable
A: Achievable
R: Relevant
T: Time bound

Skyler aspires to use data to help athletes and coaches optimize performance. With a strong foundation in STEM and experience in data science and computational modeling, he’s already developing an AI-powered golf caddie that analyzes course maps and player data to recommend the best shot strategy.

This project is a perfect example of his passion for applying analytical thinking to solve practical problems.

Skyler is now heading home from Montana, where he attended the First Tee Leadership Summit in partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore. The weeklong retreat builds on the skills taught during the in-store Leadership Series.

Participants are encouraged to build confidence and grow through challenge as they try new things, like horseback riding, whitewater rafting and archery.

Accumulating nearly 200 community service hours in 2024, Skyler is a junior coach at First Tee – Greater Washington DC, founder of his school’s math club and a member of the golf team. There’s no doubt the lessons he learned in Montana will be put to good use by this future leader.

Learn more about First Tee’s teen participant events, and join PGA TOUR Superstore in supporting participants like Skylar by donating today.

Build a Caring Community with Youth Golf Lessons in Denver

When you think of kids’ sports programs, you probably picture weekly practices, the occasional tournament or game, and very little else. At First Tee, on the other hand, we believe that the value of sports goes beyond the sport itself—we believe our golf lessons in Denver have a lifetime of opportunity to offer. That’s because First Tee’s impacts extend far beyond the junior golf lessons and into community outreach, in-school educational programs, youth leadership opportunities, mentorship, scholarships, and even career support. When your child joins First Tee – Colorado Rocky Mountains, they’re not just joining a sport; they’re joining a caring community that will support them for years to come in endeavors both on and off the course.

Invested Coaches

Because we’re so invested in the success of our participants, First Tee – Colorado Rocky Mountains employs coaches that are not only knowledgeable about the game of golf and the best methods of instruction, but also emotionally supportive as well. Sports can present difficult moments for children, with competition and failure as regular aspects of the game. But with our staff, your child has someone on their side to guide them towards not only more skillful play, but greater emotional intelligence and perseverance. Our coaches are passionate about making a difference, especially because many of them participated in First Tee programs themselves. They’re interested in paying forward the benefits of our junior golf lessons to the next generation of learners in a supportive environment. All First Tee employees are thoroughly vetted and rigorously background checked to ensure safety for all participants.

National Opportunities

Beyond the golf lessons in Denver and surrounding areas, First Tee participants are able to pursue national opportunities including tournaments, championships, summits, conferences, and more. Selected participants can travel to exciting locations to participate in workshops that develop the values of hard work, leadership, and community service. Not only do these present learning experiences but also help connect First Tee – CRM participants with First Tee students from across the country. Your child can make new friends, access networking opportunities, and learn all while traveling and enjoying the game of golf.

Learning Leadership

First Tee students can also become junior coaches. Our junior coach program presents older participants with a chance to develop and demonstrate their leadership skills by passing their knowledge on to younger students. Junior coaches often go on to further leadership roles in the program; they utilize the skills they learn to build self-confidence, improve communication skills, and serve their communities by inspiring new golfers. Plus, First Tee participants are actively encouraged to participate in broader community outreach programs. Students become positive forces in their communities by working on civic service projects that they develop themselves with support from First Tee mentors.

Career Support

We offer scholarships to students that demonstrate great achievement and commitment to First Tee values. Beyond financial support in pursuing higher education, First Tee scholarship recipients have access to mentorship and career counseling to support them in finding employment after graduation. Many First Tee participants end up working in the golf world, but even those who take their careers elsewhere can apply the lessons learned in our junior golf lessons to their jobs. We even have an Alumni Network, where past participants can network, stay in touch, and stay up to date on the future of the program.

Learn How Golf Lessons in Denver Can Unlock Your Child’s Potential

The best way to understand what makes our golf classes different from other sports programs is to see for yourself. Find the class best suited to your child’s skill level and location by browsing our available classes here. Sign up or join a waitlist and enter a community that will support your child’s positive development not just in golf, but in life.

College golf recruiting: Advice from 3 First Tee alumni

Now in its fifth year, the First Tee National Championship returns this week to the University of Notre Dame. It’s an opportunity for top players from across the country to showcase the skills they developed at their chapters.

All eight past champions are currently on college golf rosters, including First Tee – Green Valley Ranch alumnus Hunter Swanson, who plays at the University of Colorado, Boulder. While playing collegiate golf can be a rewarding experience, the process of getting there can be demanding.

First Tee – Greater Washington DC alumna Joey Nguyen is a member of the team at Drew University in Madison, New Jersey, where she was named Women’s Golfer of the Year by the Landmark Conference last season. First Tee – West Virginia alumnus Argyle Downes is a First Tee Scholar who’s heading into his sophomore season at Rutgers University.

As former First Tee National Championship competitors, we asked Joey, Argyle and Hunter about their journeys from First Tee to college golf.

When did you start thinking about college golf?

Joey started reaching out to coaches in 8th grade, sending introductory emails to get on their radar. She wasn’t sure which NCAA Division would be the right fit — but she knew it was important to get her name out as a potential recruit.

Meanwhile, Argyle got serious about college golf after his freshman year of high school, when his confidence caught up with his ambition. “I always had a goal but until that time I didn’t really have true self belief,” he said.

Key takeaway: While there’s not a specific recruiting timeline you need to follow, start early if you can, and know that belief in your own potential is just as important as raw skill. As you navigate the recruitment process, remember to set goals that are positive, specific and under your control.

How important are academics?

Both players emphasized the importance of grades in the recruiting process. “There are so many successful players that grades often become a deciding factor whether a player will be part of the team or not,” Argyle said, noting that the razor thin margin between recruits sometimes leaves coaches looking for reasons to leave a player off the roster.

Joey noted that grades and test scores are also critical for academically selective schools, opening doors that golf scores can’t.

Key takeaway: Strong academics can show good judgment, which is important to college golf coaches.

What’s your advice for connecting with coaches?

For Hunter, a busy competition schedule helped him get his name in front of coaches. “I played as many of the top junior golf tournaments as I could, not only to play against the best junior golfers, but knowing that college golf coaches would be watching the scores,” Hunter said.

When it comes to outreach, Joey used a combination of emails, phone calls and texts to build relationships with coaches. Hunter said social media is also an important recruitment tool.

When you do exchange messages with coaches, it’s important they come from players, not parents. Joey recommends starting with a concise intro email that includes:

Name, school and grad year
Tournament schedule
Key stats and highlights

Once the conversation starts, it’s important to send updates, results and anything else that keeps you on their radar. “If a coach doesn’t respond, that doesn’t mean you stop emailing. Be persistent,” she said.

When coaches do reach out, you can expect them to ask a wide variety of questions:

What are your academic and athletic goals?
What do you want in a team, school and coach?
What’s your practice routine and tournament schedule?
What are your strengths and weaknesses — on and off the course?

Key takeaway: Coaches may not find you unless you help them, and while it can be intimidating, try to show your personality, not just your golf skills. Showing that you can work well with others and respect differing opinions indicates you’re likely to be a good teammate.

What were the biggest surprises during your freshman year?

A campus visit helped Joey decide on Drew University. “I could see myself living there and really enjoying the courses and practice facilities we have,” she said. “I considered what was important to me and what I wanted to get out of my college experience, and that also helped me decide.”

But she faced a challenge before the start of the season, when the coach who recruited her left for another school. “That was definitely tough,” she said.

Hunter also had to be flexible throughout the process as he wasn’t able to go on recruiting visits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ultimately, he decided on Colorado because he felt like he could contribute to the team, grow as a player and student and trust the coaching staff, he said.

For Argyle, the biggest surprise has been just how busy life is for student athletes. “From 6 a.m. until bedtime, it’s honestly just a fully packed day with practice, recovery and school responsibilities,” he said. “There may be a few small breaks but it’s a very busy and demanding schedule.”

Key takeaway: It’s important for collegiate golfers to be flexible and prepared for change. While you’re likely to face challenges during your college golf career, it’s important to consider what you can learn from them.

Any final words of advice?

During periods when you’re playing well, play in as many tournaments as you can to boost your scoring average and showcase your skills, Joey recommends. And keep in close contact with coaches: “Send updates frequently about how you are playing, what you are working on or anything you would like to share,” she said. “It never hurts to show you are interested or really want to play at their school.”

“My best piece of advice for juniors hoping to play in college is to honestly love working hard and love the sacrifices you have to make to succeed,” Argyle said. “I may not have been the most talented or successful junior golfer, but I really love the sport and love playing and competing, and without that I wouldn’t be in the position I’m in today.”

And Hunter recommends enjoying the journey as much as possible. “This is something that a lot of kids in this world do not get the opportunity to experience, and it is a process that could change the life of someone forever,” he said. “Enjoy the process, don’t put too much pressure on yourself to perform and understand that things will work out how they are supposed to with hard work, dedication and having fun.”

The First Tee National Championship is part of our full slate of national participant opportunities, which are designed to keep teens engaged with the program. In addition to competitive golf opportunities, we offer leadership programs, a girls empowerment event and a community service workshop.

Parents continue to believe investing in youth sports will pay dividends, new study shows

More than nine in 10 parents with adult children aged 18-35 say they’ve seen how youth sports can shape a child’s future

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. (May 8, 2025) – Despite an unsteady economy, nearly nine in 10 American parents say they are making room in the budget for extracurricular activities (88%), including sports. Nine in 10 parents say playing sports helps children build character (92%) and teaches them important life skills (90%), according to new research from The Harris Poll and First Tee.

The global consulting and market research firm teamed up with the nonprofit youth development organization to explore the value parents place on youth sports, with a particular focus on the long-term impact of coaches. The Harris Poll surveyed 2,042 U.S. adults in March 2025 and analyzed the data by gender, age, race, education and income, among other characteristics.

While few young athletes ultimately turn professional, parents believe youth sports can have lifelong benefits off the field. Nearly nine in 10 parents strongly recommend youth sports to other parents, believing that coaches can impact a child’s ability to work well with others (89%), respect others (89%) and be resilient in the face of challenges (88%).

“According to this new research, parents with adult children say the confidence their child built through sports continues to shape their success today, a data point that reinforces First Tee’s mission of teaching not only golf skills but also life skills and values that equip kids to face new challenges,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “While we have heard success stories from countless First Tee alumni, we are grateful to Harris Poll for helping us quantify the incredible impact of extracurricular activities.”

Generations of Americans have been shaped by youth sports, with nearly 70% of parents who grew up with coaches saying they wouldn’t be where they are today without those influential adults in their life (67%). First Tee knows its coaches are the key to its success, which is why it’s celebrating them during First Tee Week, May 19-25. The new brand awareness campaign will mark the launch of a PSA titled “Dear Coach” and feature a panel discussion on the impact of coaches at the PGA TOUR’s Charles Schwab Challenge.

Other key findings from the survey include:

69% of parents believe there aren’t enough female coaches or mentors in youth sports. That number increases to 74% among parents of color. While parents see the impact of coaches, they believe coaching is significantly more accessible to boys than girls.
92% of parents believe that playing sports helps kids build character. That number jumps to 97% when surveying parents whose children are currently enrolled in sports. Parents see improved mental health and exposure to new things as additional benefits of extracurricular activities.
More than half of parents say trustworthy coaches could increase their child’s chances of committing to an activity (51%). Parents cite positive role modeling as their top priority when assessing a coach, followed by skill development and motivation and encouragement. All First Tee coaches are trained and background checked, so they’re prepared to teach golf skills and life lessons that extend beyond the course.

“Even amid economic uncertainty, parents see youth sports as a non-negotiable investment in their child’s future,” said Abbey Lunney, Managing Director of the Trends and Thought Leadership Practice at The Harris Poll. “Nearly 9 in 10 say the experience helped prepare their children for the future. Our data shows they’re not just hoping for athletic success—they’re prioritizing confidence, resilience, and lifelong skills shaped by meaningful coaching.”

This is the third annual research collaboration between The Harris Poll and First Tee.

Download the full 2025 report.

For the results of the 2024 parent survey, click here.

Building confidence and perseverance: A journey from First Tee to cybersecurity

As a participant in First Tee – Delaware, Grace Lombardi said she learned not only the fundamentals of golf but also some of life’s most valuable lessons. Confidence and perseverance are values that have helped Grace overcome obstacles and carve a path into the world of cybersecurity, an industry where women are still a minority.

“Confidence empowered me to take on challenges, whether it was mastering complex security concepts, earning certifications or speaking up in technical discussions,” she said. “At the same time, perseverance kept me moving forward despite obstacles, from overcoming imposter syndrome to pushing through rigorous training and setbacks.”

Grace recently began working in AWS Professional Services, supporting national security as a cloud engineering consultant. In this role, she works with clients in the federal government, helping them leverage AWS solutions to enhance their operations.

Grace said she’s proud to work for an organization that’s a major supporter of First Tee. AWS joined First Tee as a Trustee in 2021. With a dedicated team, AWS supports participants through STEM programming, employee volunteerism and alumni support. In 2024, AWS invited a select First Tee alumni to AWS re:Invent, the world’s largest annual cloud computing conference.

At re:Invent, Grace was able to attend several workshops. “I highly encourage any First Tee alumni to attend re:Invent if they get the chance,” she said. “While it’s a tech conference, the wealth of knowledge, networking opportunities and exposure to innovation make it valuable for professionals in any field.”

Forging a path in cybersecurity

Golf isn’t easy, and resilience is a trait Grace picked up during her seven years as a First Tee participant.

She said it’s important for her to stay involved with the organization because she wants to give back to the next generation. “First Tee gave me the opportunity to have so many amazing experiences across the country, and I learned so much while meeting incredible people,” she said.

Grace always knew she wanted a career that would challenge her. When she was a high school sophomore, she got an invitation that would change her life. A friend asked her to tag along to a cybersecurity conference because he didn’t want to go alone. She participated in a digital capture-the-flag competition, and the rest is history.

“I had no idea what I was doing, but I had an absolute blast and learned so much from the other attendees,” she said. She was struck by how much people seemed to enjoy their work in cybersecurity, and a new career path was on her radar.

Grace enrolled in coding classes at a local community college, before attending Rochester Institute of Technology as an undergrad and graduate student. She spent more than two years working for federal agencies before joining AWS.

“Looking back, what started as an unexpected experience at a conference in high school turned into a fulfilling career built on curiosity, problem solving and a drive to make a real impact,” she said. She felt the same type of excitement at re:Invent. “It opened the door to incredible opportunities, deepened my technical knowledge and ultimately paved the way for my career at AWS,” she said.

“Grace’s story illustrates the powerful impact of relationships like AWS and First Tee in shaping future leaders,” said Ebony Taylor, head of global executive customer engagement at AWS Professional Services. “Her journey from learning golf fundamentals to becoming a cloud engineering consultant demonstrates how confidence and perseverance can drive success in technology fields.”

“At AWS, we value individuals who aren’t afraid to dive deep into new challenges and continuously learn. We’re proud to support organizations like First Tee that help develop well-rounded professionals who can make meaningful contributions to critical fields like cybersecurity, and we’re happy to create pathways for more talented individuals like Grace to thrive in technology careers,” Taylor said.

Learn more about the First Tee Alumni Network, which provides professional development and social opportunities across the country.

Meredith Speer’s journey from First Tee to a golf career

The game of golf is more than just a sport; it’s a powerful vehicle for personal growth, leadership and community. For Meredith Speer, First Tee has been an integral part of her journey, not just to become a skilled golfer but to pursue a career in the industry. Her story highlights the transformative impact of First Tee programs, which have helped shape her path on and off the golf course.

Meredith joined First Tee – Greater El Paso at 6, and when her family later moved to Cedar Park, Texas, she became involved with First Tee – Greater Austin. Female leaders at both chapters became mentors for Meredith, who soon realized she wanted golf to be a big part of her life.

“Kristi Albers started my love for the game by taking me under her wing and giving me lessons after every Saturday class,” Meredith said. “And Jennifer MacCurrach has been a mentor in so many aspects of my life – in and outside of golf.”

Meredith is currently enrolled in the PGA Golf Management Program at Sam Houston State University, where she was recently elected president of the PGM Student Association. This summer she’ll intern at Southern Hills Country Club, which has hosted three U.S. Opens and five PGA Championships.

“At this internship, I will be working in the golf performance center learning all about giving lessons and club fittings,” she said. “Along with that, I will get more experience working outside services and inside the golf shop getting more experience with merchandising.”

The First Tee College Scholarship Program is shaping future leaders

Meredith is a member of the First Tee College Scholarship Program. As a Scholar, she receives access to professional development opportunities, a dedicated mentor and financial support.

“The First Tee Scholarship Program has supported me in so many ways academically and socially,” she explained. “It’s given me the confidence I need to pursue a career in golf, and I’ve had the opportunity to hear from women who are already in the industry. Their stories have inspired me and assured me that success is possible.”

The First Tee College Scholarship Program is supported by generous partners like Chevron, which hosted a group of First Tee alumni at The Chevron Championship in Woodlands, Texas, last week. Meredith attended the event and networked with a variety of golf industry professionals.

“The alumni meetup at The Chevron Championship was one of the most amazing experiences,” Meredith said. “Getting to meet up with my fellow First Tee friends and watch the amazing LPGA golfers only solidified my choice of working in this industry.”

The First Tee Alumni Network helps connect past participants, providing networking opportunities, social events and job listings. Join now.

Children’s Golf Lessons in Aurora & the Importance of Positive Thinking

More than just a pastime, golf offers children a unique opportunity to grow academically and socially while embracing the integral role of positive thinking. At First Tee – Colorado Rocky Mountains, we believe that nurturing a positive mindset is as important as learning to perfect a swing. First Tee provides young individuals with the skills they need to flourish both on and off the golf course. Our nonprofit organization integrates life lessons into each swing, putt, and drive. By focusing on building self-confidence and resilience, our children’s golf lessons develop a growth mindset that benefits our Aurora students throughout their lives.

Incorporating Positive Thinking into Golf Lessons in Aurora

Positive thinking has the power to transform attitudes, and transforming attitudes leads to transforming lives.

Enhancing Confidence on the Course

Boosting confidence is essential for any aspiring young golfer. When children participate in golf lessons at Aurora’s top courses like Murphy Creek or Meadow Hills, they naturally face a variety of challenges, from learning the proper grip to mastering swing mechanics. A mindset rooted in positivity and self-actualization is developed through continuous learning and support from our coaches and mentors. Confidence on the course translates into a willingness to take calculated risks and try hard. Whether it’s a difficult bunker shot at SpringHill or applying for a dream college. This boldness encourages young players to push their boundaries, understand the rules of golf deeply, and discover their own potential.

Building Resilience Through Challenges

Golf, much like life, is filled with ups and downs. The hallmark of a great player isn’t just their ability to strike the perfect golf ball but also their inner resilience when the ball doesn’t end up where they want it. First Tee – Colorado Rocky Mountains places an emphasis on building resilience through our children’s golf lessons. Students quickly learn that not every swing will be perfect, but that challenges are opportunities for growth, and they will always have the support of First Tee staff and volunteers to fall back on. The experiences gained at these golf lessons ensure Aurora students acquire a strong mental fortitude, preparing them to face academic or social hurdles in a manner that is reflective, proactive, and optimistic.

Encouraging a Growth Mindset in Young Golfers

The concept of a growth mindset—believing that abilities and intelligence can be developed with time and effort—is fundamental to the philosophy at First Tee. This perspective turns learning from something daunting into an exciting and rewarding experience. Through consistent practice and a willingness to learn from mistakes, children are taught to appreciate progress, however small, and to understand that mastery is a journey that requires time and dedication. By participating in First Tee children’s golf lessons, young golfers are armed with a powerful mental toolkit.

The Role of Mentorship in Developing Young Golfers

Without our mentors and coaches, our work would not be possible. At First Tee – Colorado Rocky Mountains, our mentors do more than demonstrate the proper grip or fundamentals of golf. They inspire junior golfers to dream big and set goals while providing an environment where kids feel safe to fail but are encouraged to grow. With increased confidence, young athletes can tackle challenges head-on, knowing they can rely on the guidance and encouragement of our staff and volunteers.

Children’s Golf Lessons in Aurora Are Waiting at First Tee

At First Tee, we teach more than just the fundamentals of golf. Our mission is to inspire youth academically, socially, and physically through a game they will love. Children learn essential values like honesty, respect, and perseverance—skills that will benefit them in every area of life. Our lessons are informative, engaging, and tailored to all skill levels.

Join our junior golf programs and watch your child’s developing positive mindset shine on and off the course.

Coach Emily ‘is a mentor and role model’

It’s no secret that First Tee considers its coaches to be the most important ingredient in its success. All trained and background checked, First Tee coaches connect with participants to ensure each one feels safe and celebrated for the qualities that make them unique.

One coach who exemplifies First Tee’s mission is Emily Ortmeier of First Tee – Southern Colorado, who has been with the chapter for five years. “Emily Ortmeier is more than a coach; she is a mentor and role model,” said First Tee – Southern Colorado board member Jeff Stedman.

A former collegiate golfer, Emily leads by example and inspires participants to do their best on and off the golf course, according to her colleagues at First Tee – Southern Colorado.

“When a participant fails, Coach Emily is always there to console and encourage them to persevere,” said chapter CEO Sandy Johnson. “She uses these moments as learning opportunities that greatly help to develop the character of each participant, reassuring them that we must fail in order to learn how to succeed and get right back to pursuing our goals.”

Eagles for Impact at THE PLAYERS® Championship

As the eyes of the golf world turn to TPC Sawgrass for THE PLAYERS Championship 2025, there’s an extra reason to root for low scores. For every eagle or double eagle carded by the pros during the tournament, Morgan Stanley will donate $5,000 to support First Tee’s coach training efforts.

Last year, Emily was one of 107 coaches to benefit from Morgan Stanley’s generosity. She attended a Level 4 training in Monterey, California, and has advanced to the point where she now leads Level 1 trainings for new coaches. She’s trained 20 coaches in her region.

First Tee – Southern Colorado colleagues agree that Emily’s passion for making golf accessible to all kids is evident in her work. She’s helped 21 new schools and community centers begin offering First Tee programming over the last two years.

In fact, Emily means so much to the community that she was recently recognized with Southern Colorado Business Forum & Digest’s 40 Under 40 Award.

Coaches make the difference

According to research from First Tee and Harris Poll, 80% of parents believe there’s a shortage of high caliber coaches today. That’s why First Tee is committed to coach training and youth safety.

Nine out of 10 parents agree that coaches should help their child succeed both on and off the field, and parents view coaching as instrumental for teaching collaboration, resilience and leadership – all qualities that become even more important into adulthood.

Learn more about the importance of youth sports coaches.

Mentors make a difference: Scholar Nelia Leong shares tips for making a connection

Young people have lots to navigate – not just school and career development, but they’re also building confidence, overcoming challenges and taking on their first leadership roles. These are all areas where a mentor can help.

For many participants, First Tee coaches serve as early mentors, with parents seeing the benefits. According to research from First Tee and Harris Poll, parents turn to coaches to help teach their kids character, perseverance and leadership skills.

Three-quarters of adults who were mentored in their youth say their mentor “contributed significantly to their success later in life.”

With its many benefits, mentorship is an essential element of the First Tee College Scholarship Program which extends First Tee’s impact to alumni by providing support throughout their post-graduate career. In addition to receiving financial support and professional development opportunities, each First Tee Scholar is matched with an adult mentor to help support them during their college experience.

“We’ve seen our Scholars buy into their mentorship connections and because of that, they have another layer of support to guide them through any obstacles and challenges they face in college,” said Robbie Lowman, who oversees the First Tee College Scholarship Program. “Our mentors help our Scholars become the best versions of themselves, which benefits them in the job market.”

An alumna of First Tee – Upstate South Carolina, Scholar Nelia Leong is a junior at the University of Florida. As she prepares to apply to dental school, Nelia reflected on her connection with her mentor, Jennifer Weiler, senior vice president of network relations at First Tee.

“The most important lesson I’ve learned from Jen is that it’s okay to ask for help,” Nelia. “In fact, it can lead to incredible opportunities.”

Jen helped Nelia connect with a dentist in her network. Nelia has since been shadowing and assisting him for two years, and he’s writing a letter of recommendation for her dental school applications.

“Jen’s mentorship has been one of the most important relationships in my life,” Nelia said. “We’ve built a strong, trusting bond where I feel comfortable sharing all aspects of my life, knowing she’ll listen and offer support.”

Nelia said Jen was there for her during the stressful lead up to her Dental Admissions Test last year, and Jen was the first person she texted to celebrate after receiving an excellent score on the exam.

While having a mentor on your side can be incredibly beneficial, it’s not always easy to build and maintain a relationship in a busy world.

“I built a personal connection with my mentor by keeping her updated on both the big and small events in my life,” Nelia said. “She celebrates my successes and supports me through challenges.”

In addition to texting, Nelia and Jen connect by Google Meet at least once per month. They especially relish opportunities to meet in person.

Jen says she has enjoyed being Nelia’s mentor throughout her college journey. “It has been fun to connect with Nelia virtually, on the golf course and at First Tee scholar events. She is such an impressive young woman and has an incredible future ahead of her.” She added, “I am so proud to have been a very small part of her success in college.”

Nelia’s tips for cultivating a strong mentor-mentee relationship:

Try to connect at least once a month, and don’t be afraid to reach out about the small things.

Share your struggles and your wins.

Ask for help when you need it.