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Yang and Mierl claim 2024 First Tee National Championship

Clemson, South Carolina (June 27, 2024) – Norah Yang of Los Altos, California, and Trent Mierl of Austin, Texas, won the girls’ and boys’ divisions of the 4^th annual First Tee National Championship at the Walker Course at Clemson University. The event brought together First Tee’s elite golfers for an opportunity to showcase how the program has helped build the confidence, perseverance and skills needed to play at the next level.

Yang finished the tournament 6-under-par and shot a final round 69 to clench the victory on the girls’ side. She is a rising high school senior with a 4.0 GPA. She’s been a volunteer coach at First Tee – Silicon Valley for three years and finished 3^rd at the 2023 PURE Insurance Championship, a PGA Tour Champions event that pairs First Tee juniors with professional players for a week of competition and mentorship at Pebble Beach.

“It has been amazing playing at Clemson this week,” Yang said. “I have met so many amazing players from all the other chapters and had so many great experiences. Getting here and winning would not have been possible without First Tee and all the skills they have taught me.”

Mierl, who will play golf at the University of Missouri next year, shot a blistering 65 in the final round to finish 9-under for the tournament. He’s been a member of First Tee for nine years and is a volunteer coach at his chapter. He’s the only player to compete in all four First Tee National Championships, with the inaugural event taking place in 2021, and said it was special to win in his final attempt.

“I came up one shot short of the playoffs in the first National Championship,” he said. “I’ve met great people here and made so many great memories. This is my favorite junior golf event, and it feels like I came full circle in my final chance to win at the same golf course where I fell just short.”

Both winners were awarded with the Tattersall Cup in honor of event chairman Fred Tattersall.

Two players were also awarded exemptions to the 2024 PURE Insurance Championship. As First Tee juniors can only play in the PURE Insurance Championship once, this year’s exemptions went to Gianna Singh from First Tee – Greater Sacramento and Spencer Ives from First Tee – Naples/Collier. The tournament will be broadcast on Golf Channel, Sept. 20-22.

Based on their play at the First Tee National Championship, two players will also earn spots in the PGA TOUR’s Pathways to Progression program, which aims to support talented golfers from backgrounds that are traditionally underrepresented in the sport. The PGA TOUR will announce the full roster for its Pathways program, including the two players who earned their spots at the First Tee National Championship, in the coming days.

“Congratulations to all of our participants in the field and especially to Trent and Norah for an outstanding performance in becoming the 2024 First Tee National Champions,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “This event plays an important role in helping these young people prepare for the next level. We are extremely proud of this event and of the teens who work hard on their game all year preparing. Thank you to Clemson University for hosting for the second time, we look forward to coming back again.”

The First Tee National Championship is held annually at various college golf courses around the nation, providing First Tee participants the opportunity to network with others from across the country. Next year’s event will take place at Notre Dame University.
 
The field included 24 boys and 24 girls, ages 14-18, who were selected based on their golf skills and competitive golf experience. A full list of results is available here.
 
The National Championship is one of more than 10 national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters to empower and motivate teens as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities.

First Tee returns to Clemson for 4th annual National Championship

For the first time, this year’s tournament will be streamed on Gamekast with live scoring available on Golf Genius.

Clemson, South Carolina – (June 21, 2024) – The Walker Course at Clemson University will host the First Tee National Championship next week, June 25-27, 2024, bringing together 48 of the organization’s top golfers for a 54-hole event designed to showcase how the program has helped them build the skills, positive attitude and perseverance needed to play collegiate golf.

The field includes 24 boys and 24 girls, ages 14-18, who were selected based on their golf skills and competitive golf experience. Fourteen players in the field have already committed to college golf teams. First Tee held its inaugural National Championship at Clemson in 2021 and all six of the past winners are members of college golf teams. That includes 2023 winner Megan Meng of First Tee – Greater Trenton, who’s in the Top 10 in the AJGA Rankings and will begin her collegiate career at Northwestern this fall.

In advance of this year’s competition, the event will feature a keynote address by First Tee – Greater Richmond alumnus Gavin Parker, PGA, who shares his love for the sport on his popular social media channels. Participants will also attend a careers in golf panel to learn more about working in the industry.

“First Tee continues to play an important role in the development of teens, both on and off the course,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “Our National Championship is an opportunity for participants who want to take their game to the next level to showcase their skills. The week provides them with competition and an enriching opportunity to get them ready for playing in college and beyond.”

For the first time, viewers can stream the First Tee National Championship on Gamekast. Scoring will also be available on Golf Genius.

In addition to crowning a male and female tournament winner, one boy and one girl from the field will be awarded spots in the PGA TOUR’s Pathways to Progression program, a player development program that aims to achieve greater diversity in golf through an increased focus on developing talent from diverse and historically underrepresented groups.

First Tee – Greater Austin’s Danica Lundgren earned a spot in the Pathways program at last year’s National Championship, held at Stanford University. She’s back in the tournament field this year before joining the Nebraska Cornhuskers women’s golf team this fall.

Two exemptions to this year’s PURE Insurance Championship will also be up for grabs. The PGA TOUR Champions event pairs pro and junior players for a week of competition and mentorship at Pebble Beach each September.

The First Tee National Championship is held annually at various college campuses around the nation, providing First Tee participants the opportunity to network with others from across the country and take in the college experience. Next year’s event will take place at the University of Notre Dame.

The Championship is one of more than 10 national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters to empower and motivate teens as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities. For more information on the tournament and First Tee, visit www.firsttee.org. 

View the full list of selected participants here.

First Tee Leadership Academy returns to Atlanta, headlined by basketball legend Maya Moore

Teens from across the U.S. will learn about leadership from executives within the Arthur M. Blank family of businesses.

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. and ATLANTA, GA. (June 17, 2024) – The First Tee Leadership Academy in partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore returns from June 17-22. The weeklong Atlanta event will bring together 48 teens from across the country who will learn about operating successful teams from executives within the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United, PGA TOUR Superstore and the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation.

The event is headlined by basketball legend Maya Moore, a 4-time WNBA, 2-time NCAA and 2-time Olympic champion, who off the court, has been a dedicated advocate of criminal justice reform. Participants will also hear from leaders like Atlanta United CEO Garth Lagerwey, Atlanta Falcons President Greg Beadles, PGA TOUR Superstore Chairman and CEO Dick Sullivan and Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation Chief of Staff Kelley Gulley.

It will feature workshops on communication, developing a winning culture and more. Attendees will get a taste of the college experience, with the Georgia Institute of Technology serving as its hub. The group will also visit sites across Atlanta, including the PGA TOUR Superstore Support Center, the Coda building, Atlanta United’s training facility, the College Football Hall of Fame and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

“Our participants learn valuable skills at the First Tee Leadership Academy and have made friendships they will carry with them well beyond their time in Atlanta,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “We are grateful to PGA TOUR Superstore for supporting these truly life-changing events.”

PGA TOUR Superstore has been a partner of First Tee for more than a decade, providing financial support and in-kind donations. It provides chapter grants to promote teen retention and supports national events like the Leadership Academy, Leadership Summit and Leadership Series.

The First Tee Leadership Academy is one of ten national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters to inspire and empower teens as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities. 

To be eligible to apply for the Academy, teens were required to participate in a five-week Leadership Series that was hosted at PGA TOUR Superstores across the country this past spring. 

How to Choose the Best Golf Lessons for Your Kids in Denver

If you are a Denver parent looking to introduce your child to the wonderful world of golf, you may be wondering how to choose the right golf program for them. Finding the best golf lessons for kids in Denver involves considering a variety of factors, including class size, instructor-to-student ratios, schedules, costs, and more. By doing your research and asking the right questions, you can ensure that your child receives quality instruction that will help them develop their golf skills and foster a love for the game.

We’ve put together this helpful guide to help streamline the research process. Let’s delve into some important considerations for discovering the ideal golf program to get your child involved with!

Why Choose Golf for Your Kids?

More parents should consider introducing their kids to golf because it offers a wide range of benefits that can positively impact their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Golf is a sport that requires focus, discipline, and patience, which are all important qualities that can help children develop valuable life skills. By learning how to play golf, kids can improve their concentration, problem-solving skills, and decision-making abilities on and off the course, all of which are crucial for success both on and in everyday life.

Playing golf also provides children with an opportunity to spend time outdoors, away from screens and technology, which can benefit their general health and well-being. The physical activity involved in golf can help kids stay active, build muscle strength, and improve coordination and balance. Additionally, being out on the golf course allows them to enjoy nature, breathe in fresh air, and unwind from the stresses of life. Plus, golf provides children with the opportunity to make new friends, build relationships, and create lasting memories that can positively impact their social development.

Researching Youth Golf Lessons

It’s wise to conduct research before selecting a junior golf program for your child to ensure that they receive the best possible experience and development in the sport. By exploring the different options available, parents can find a program that aligns with their child’s skill level, goals, and learning style. Some simple internet research can provide a great deal of information on the different youth golf lessons available in your area. And looking into reviews and ratings can help you gauge how satisfied other parents are with the programs.

Key Considerations When Browsing Programs

Beyond the overall reputation of different golf programs, there are some other specific aspects you should investigate when deciding on which golf lessons for kids to enroll your junior athlete in.

Class Sizes

It’s a good idea to compare the class sizes offered by different programs. Smaller class sizes allow for a more personalized and focused learning experience and promote a conducive learning environment. With fewer students, there is less distraction and noise, allowing for better concentration and engagement during the lessons. Students are more likely to actively participate and ask questions when they are in a smaller group, creating a collaborative and interactive environment that cultivates both learning and enjoyment.

Instructor-to-Student Ratios

You should also take into account the instructor-to-student ratios. This ratio determines the number of students a single instructor is responsible for during a lesson. Opting for a golf program with smaller ratios, such as one instructor per two or three students, is generally best. With fewer children to manage, instructors can closely monitor each student’s technique and ensure proper form and safety measures are followed.

Costs and Scheduling

Understanding the financial commitment involved in enrolling your child in a golf program is important so that it fits within your budget. Scheduling is also crucial when choosing a golf program. Parents need to determine if the program’s practice schedules align with their child’s existing commitments, such as school, extracurricular activities, or family events.

What First Tee – Colorado Rocky Mountains Brings to the Table

First Tee – Colorado Rocky Mountains is a well-established golf program for kids that brings a plethora of benefits to the table. With their wealth of experience and presence in the Denver metro community, First Tee provides a unique opportunity for children to learn and grow through the sport of golf.

Our golf lessons in Denver are known for being inclusive. We welcome children from diverse backgrounds and skill levels, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to participate and benefit from these programs. This inclusivity creates a supportive and welcoming environment for children to work on their golf skills.

We also place a big emphasis on skill development. Through expert coaching and structured lesson plans, our coaches help children not only become better golfers, but also develop important life skills such as perseverance, honesty, and integrity. These are instilled through a curriculum that combines golf instruction with character education and practical life skills.

We understand the importance of building relationships and connecting with others through golf, so we work to provide numerous opportunities for children and teens to socialize and make friends, fostering a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. This aspect of the program goes beyond the golf course, as the friendships and connections formed can last a lifetime.

Check Out All of Our Golf Lessons for Kids in Denver

Finding the right golf lessons for your junior athlete can make all the difference in their enjoyment and success in the sport. One fantastic option to explore in Colorado is the programs offered by First Tee – CRM. Our experienced instructors and positive learning environment give kids a fun and enriching experience while honing their golfing skills.

Look into all of the great age and skill-based golf classes for kids we’re offering and sign them up today!

24 exceptional First Tee alumni selected for First Tee College Scholarship Program

Members of the First Tee College Scholarship Program receive financial support, mentorship and professional development opportunities.

Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. – (June 4, 2024) – First Tee is thrilled to welcome 24 new members to the First Tee College Scholarship Program. Entering its fifth year, the program recently celebrated its first graduating class, and now boasts 94 current or former members. Like those who have come before them, each of the new First Tee Scholars has shown dedication to school, extracurriculars, volunteerism and especially First Tee, averaging 9.5 years of involvement with the youth development organization.

The 14 young women and 10 young men who comprise the 2024 Scholar class were selected from a pool of 150 applicants. They boast an average GPA of 4.0 and SAT score of 1350. Ten members of the new class are participants in the Ace Program, First Tee’s capstone experience. Four plan to play collegiate golf, including First Tee – West Virginia’s Argyle Downes, who will play Division I golf at Rutgers.

Members of the First Tee College Scholarship program not only receive financial support, but they are also matched with an adult mentor and provided annual professional development opportunities.

“Spring is an exciting time of the year when we welcome a new group of First Tee Scholars,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “The scholarship program has grown significantly since it launched in 2020 thanks to our generous donors and sponsors. We look forward to supporting our Scholars on their path to success.”

Ten First Tee Scholars graduated from college this spring. Several plan to attend graduate or medical school, while others are starting careers with companies like AWS, BNP Paribas Bank, PwC, Proctor & Gamble and the NFL.

Participants across First Tee’s network submitted applications to be a part of the latest Scholar class. Following an online application process, finalists were selected by a committee

for one-on-one interviews. In addition to academic performance, applicants were considered based on financial need, chapter involvement, community service and other criteria.

Congratulations to the 2024 First Tee Scholars:

Name	Chapter	University
Mahek Acharya	Greater Chicago	Indiana University
Maia Alinskas	Delaware	University of Delaware
Aditi Balakrishna	Tri-Valley	University of Illinois
Sarah Brannigan	Metropolitan New York	Georgetown University
Nicholas Crawford*	Roanoke Valley	Emory and Henry College
Erika Dierke	Minnesota	University of Mississippi
Argyle Downes*	West Virginia	Rutgers University
Tyler Joplin	Greater Dallas	Boston College
William Liu	Greater Seattle	Stanford University
Emmy Martinez	Greater Dallas	Bentley University
Henry Mentzel	Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky	University of Kentucky
Gabriella Mercado	Orange County	University of San Diego
Faith Ndichu	Raritan Valley	Lehigh University
Joseph Neddo	North Florida	University of Central Florida
David Nguyen	Central Iowa	Grinnel College
Kylie Nguyen*	Greater Seattle	Chapman University
Selam Olson	Connecticut	Trinity College (CT)
Shae Patel	Metropolitan Oklahoma City	University of Oklahoma
Jaylyn Remolona	San Francisco	Seattle University
Isabella Rubio	Florida Gold Coast	University of Florida
Kailey Shapiro	Northern Nevada	Tulane University
Leah Torres*	Greater Houston	University of St. Thomas, Houston
Dimitri Vasilacopulos	Utah	Southern Utah University
Nathan Vertes	Florida Gold Coast	University of Florida

*Denotes collegiate golfer

First Tee alumni share the advice they’d give their younger selves

With graduation in the books, many kids and teens are looking ahead to the future. But we asked First Tee alumni to look back and consider the advice they’d share with their 18-year-old self.

David Singh
First Tee – Tampa Bay
Recently earned his Master in Healthcare Administration at the University of Pittsburgh

“Life is not always gonna stick to the script you’ve got in your head. Sometimes, it’ll throw you curveballs you never saw coming. Roll with the punches, stay flexible, and remember, there’s always a silver lining in every setback. Keep your chin up, ’cause even when things don’t go as planned, there’s still a world of amazing possibilities out there waiting for you.”

Savannah Mansueti
First Tee – Florida Gold Coast
Manager of operations at First Tee – Florida Gold Coast

“If I could advise my 18-year-old self, I’d emphasize embracing failure as a key part of learning and growth, seeing setbacks as opportunities to refine skills. I’d also stress the importance of building strong relationships with family, friends, mentors and colleagues for support and guidance. Lastly, I’d recommend prioritizing financial literacy early on, mastering budgeting, saving and investing for long-term stability and success.”

Haili Moore
First Tee – Greater Dallas
Student at Texas Christian University and entry-level staff accountant

“Do not allow yourself to settle in relationships, careers, friendships, education, etc. You are worth what you allow to infiltrate your time, peace and space. The thing is though, is that you are worth more than you’ll ever know.”

Jamie Rush
First Tee – Pittsburgh
Methodist University marketing student with a concentration in professional golf management

“My advice would be to live in the moment. We are always wishing for the next big moment and forget to treasure the times that we are currently in. I’m still trying to learn this lesson today. Enjoy every aspect of the here and now, slow down and don’t wish your life away.”

Spencer McIntosh
First Tee – Tampa Bay
Director of business intelligence and analytics at First Tee

“I would encourage my 18-year-old self to be continuously educating yourself whether that be reading more books, taking additional courses or seeking mentorship. I’d also recommend that he build a strong network and surround himself with supportive and knowledgeable people so you can apply those lessons to his passions. Then finally, I’d tell him to pay those gifts forward to the next generation of game changers!”

Srishti Dhurandhar
First Tee – Metropolitan New York
Business and technology management student and collegiate golfer at NYU

“Some advice for my younger self would be to be less afraid to ask for help and make mistakes. I learned the most when things didn’t go according to plan and wish I had spent less time worrying about doing everything perfectly because everything will work out in the end as long as you surround yourself with people you can lean on. “

Are you a First Tee alumna? Learn more about the First Tee Alumni Network.

First Tee Scholar Kelly Low is launching her career at AWS

Established in 2020, the First Tee College Scholarship Program is celebrating its first graduating class. Among its ranks is First Tee – Fort Worth alumna Kelly Low, who recently graduated from the University of Texas at Dallas.

Now, Kelly is embarking on her career with one of the world’s most influential companies, which also happens to be a major supporter of First Tee.

She’s going to be a solutions architect for AWS based in Austin. “What excites me the most is the opportunity to innovate for each unique customer scenario,” she said. Kelly also said it feels profoundly gratifying to work for a company that’s so actively engaged with First Tee.

From mentoring alumni to encouraging staff to volunteer with local chapters, AWS supports First Tee in a variety of ways.

AWS posted an internship opportunity on the First Tee Alumni Platform, and First Tee scholarship manager Robbie Lowman passed it along to Kelly. She applied, received an internship offer, and the rest is history.

Francessca Vasquez, VP, AWS Professional Services and Generative AI Innovation Center said, “Witnessing the positive impact of First Tee on lives like Kelly’s is a privilege that makes our work as First Tee Trustees truly meaningful and inspiring. Like Amazon’s Leadership Principle of ‘Learn and Be Curious,’ this story exemplifies the power of continuous learning and growth, inspiring us to keep exploring new ways to empower and uplift the next generation of builders.”

Kelly has already experienced AWS re:Invent, the world’s largest annual cloud computing conference, where she was invited to play in the AWS ProAm in 2023.

“I am excited for Kelly and her role with AWS,” Lowman said. “After getting to know her over the last few years, she is a passionate learner who has a deep appreciation for emerging technology. Kelly will thrive at AWS because of the supportive environment, and we are grateful for their continued support.”

As a participant and Scholar, Kelly has been involved with First Tee for nearly a decade, and she said she still uses its lessons today. “First Tee’s approach to perseverance goes beyond mere persistence. It encompasses managing emotions, setting realistic goals and maintaining a positive attitude in the face of challenges,” she said.

As part of the First Tee College Scholarship Program, each Scholar receives financial support, professional development opportunities and a dedicated mentor. Kelly’s favorite part of the program was getting to know her peers and her mentor from AWS, Heidi Buck.

AWS signed on as a First Tee Trustee in 2021 and has focused its efforts on teen retention. The company also invites its employees to volunteer at First Tee chapters around the globe.

“First Tee’s goal is to provide kids with experiences that build character, and AWS has been a great supporter of that mission,” said Jennifer Weiler, First Tee’s senior vice president of network relations. “We’re grateful for the relationship and excited to follow Kelly’s journey with AWS.”

In the tough moments, Mahek Acharya wants athletes to know they’re not alone

Mahek Acharya’s golf journey began when her uncle gifted her a set of pink clubs. “I tried other sports, but golf just stuck with me,” she said. She went on to join First Tee – Greater Chicago and play on her high school team.

But as all players know, golf doesn’t always cooperate. “One season, things were going really great,” Mahek explained. “I was having fun and playing well, but then all the sudden, I just couldn’t hit the ball. I don’t know what happened, but it was really demotivating. I even told my parents I wanted to quit, but I knew I couldn’t give up the sport I love.”

It was this experience that inspired Mahek to start her podcast, Insights of the Mental Game. “I knew I needed to find a solution and talking things out has always helped me,” she said. “It’s been a journey, but the podcast has helped me love golf again, and people have told me it’s helped them too, which I think is my biggest accomplishment.”

Mahek has interviewed First Tee participants from around the country, many of whom she met at national participant events, including the First Tee Leadership Summit supported by PGA TOUR Superstore. That’s where she connected with LPGA player Shasta Averyhardt, who went on to appear on her show too. “Mental strength is so important in golf so to hear from a professional was really cool,” Mahek said.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, which was created to help address stigma surrounding the topic, but experiencing mental blocks can still be isolating for athletes, Mahek said. “I remember when Simone Biles had the ‘twisties’ and she wasn’t able to compete during the Tokyo Olympics,” she said. “Even in my own community, a lot of people didn’t take it seriously.”

While her podcast mostly focuses on golf, Mahek has also covered ice skating, basketball and tennis. She’s learned that each sport brings unique mental challenges. “I think it helps when athletes realize they’re not alone,” she said. “For a while I thought I was the only one struggling, but it makes it easier to know other people have these experiences too.”

Mahek is preparing to graduate from high school and plans to continue her podcast at Indiana University, where she will study business. Though her competitive golf career is ending, she said she’ll continue playing for fun and stay involved with First Tee.

“I’m just so happy I could make change with this podcast,” she said. “Making a difference in even one person’s life is such a great feeling.”

Build Lifelong Skills with Junior Golf Programs in Denver

Golf is a sport that is enjoyed by people of all ages, and starting young can set the foundation for a lifelong passion. Junior golf programs provide structured lessons and activities designed to teach children the fundamentals of golf while promoting decision-making, discipline, and perseverance.

By enrolling your child in a junior golf program in Denver, you are not only introducing them to a new sport, but also giving them the opportunity to build important skills that will benefit them both on and off the golf course. Let’s explore the benefits of participating in these programs and how they can help your child develop a love for golf that lasts a lifetime.

The Power of Perseverance

In golf, success is not immediate and requires dedication, patience, and hard work. As kids practice their swings and work on improving their skills, they encounter obstacles and setbacks that teach them the importance of resilience and determination. By consistently showing up to practice, putting in the effort to improve, and learning from their mistakes, kids in golf programs develop a strong work ethic and a growth mindset. They understand that success in golf, as in life, requires persistence and the willingness to overcome challenges, which ultimately helps them gain the confidence and skills needed to achieve their goals both on and off the golf course.

Value in Concentration and Dedication

Another key skill that these programs can impart is concentration. In order to excel in golf, players must learn how to block out distractions and focus solely on their shot. This requires a high level of concentration and mental discipline, which can translate into improved focus in other areas of their lives. Additionally, junior golf programs can also teach players the value of dedication.

Golf is a sport that requires long hours of practice and constant refinement of skills. Players must stay engaged in the present moment while putting in the hard work and effort required to improve their game. This dedication can help instill a strong work ethic and perseverance in young players, setting them up for success both on and off the course.

Developing Decision-Making

Junior golf programs play a crucial role in teaching young players the importance of strategic thinking and decision-making on the golf course. As they learn how to plan their shots, consider factors like wind direction and course obstacles, and execute their game plan, junior golfers develop critical thinking abilities that go beyond just the sport.

These skills extend to problem-solving, analyzing situations, and making informed decisions, all of which are an asset in academic, professional, and personal aspects of their lives. By honing their ability to assess risks, weigh options, and adapt to changing conditions on the course, young golfers are better equipped to navigate challenges and opportunities outside the realm of golf. These skills in turn help them become more well-rounded people.

The First Tee Difference

Through a curriculum that integrates golf instruction with lessons on integrity, sportsmanship, respect, and more, First Tee – Colorado Rocky Mountains is able to provide an experience that goes beyond just the sport itself. Our program’s commitment to inclusivity ensures that all children, regardless of background or skill level, have the opportunity to participate and learn valuable life lessons in a supportive and encouraging environment. And our emphasis on personal growth and character development sets us apart from traditional youth sports programs and helps our young participants develop the skills they need to succeed

Get Involved with Our Junior Golf Programs in Denver

Taking part in junior golf programs near you can offer a multitude of benefits apart from learning and excelling at golf. If you are looking for a reputable and comprehensive junior golf program in Denver, look no further than First Tee – Colorado Rocky Mountains. With experienced coaches and a supportive community, we provide a nurturing environment for children to grow and thrive in.

Browse through all of our upcoming classes and register your child today!

Where are they now: First Tee National Championship winners

First Tee returns to Clemson University this year for its 4^th annual National Championship. This year’s field includes 24 boys and 24 girls from First Tee chapters across the country to experience what golf looks like at the next level.

In addition to showcasing their skills and perseverance on the course, players will also attend a golf careers panel and a keynote address from First Tee alumnus Gavin Parker.

This year’s tournament will be streamed on Gamecast, and you can follow scoring on Golf Genius.

Before we head to Clemson, we caught up with our past winners to see what they’re up to.

Ashton Harper
First Tee — Roanoke Valley

Ashton won the inaugural First Tee National Championship at Clemson in 2021 and is now a member of the golf team at Virginia Tech, where he is majoring in business. Ashton said his experience with First Tee taught him valuable lessons in perseverance. “Golf is not a game of perfect, and there will always be ups and downs when playing this game, but they are magnified in tournaments due to the high stakes. I was able to use perseverance to fight these ups and downs,” he said.

Ashton aims to become an All-ACC player by the end of his tenure at Virginia Tech before going on to play professionally.

Symran Shah
First Tee — Greater Dallas

Like Ashton, Symran won the First Tee National Championship at Clemson in 2021 and now plays golf at Virginia Tech. She studies business and plans to have a career in healthcare administration.

Hannah Lydic
First Tee — Delaware

Hannah won the 2022 First Tee National Championship held at Notre Dame and is now a member of the golf team at the University of Richmond, majoring in business administration with a concentration in marketing. Her experience in the First Tee National Championship taught her patience and perseverance in both herself and her game, she said.

As a Spider, she’s won awards for golf and academics. “What’s cool about the game of golf is that if you play calm and treat your playing partners with kindness, you will ultimately have a better experience on the course which will allow you to play at a higher level,” she said. Because of her experience with First Tee coaches, she fell in love with golf and now has the goal to become a collegiate golf coach.

Hunter Swanson
First Tee — Green Valley Ranch

Hunter won the First Tee National Championship at Notre Dame in 2022 and is now a business student and member of the golf team at the University of Colorado, Boulder. Hunter lost to Ashton in a playoff at the 2021 First Tee National Championship, which inspired him to have the perseverance to come back and win at Notre Dame and taught him how to be more comfortable in high stress situations, he said.

As a college golfer, Hunter said the most important lesson he learned from First Tee is confidence. “I find I play more relaxed and have a better game when I practice enough to believe in my abilities,” he said. Since winning the First Tee National Championship, Hunter has made the Colorado Golf Hall of Fame, been a Pac-12 Men’s Golfer of the Week and the Nevada State Amateur runner up.

Megan Meng
First Tee — Greater Trenton

Megan won the 2023 First Tee National Championship at Stanford and is preparing to begin her college golf career at Northwestern, where she’ll study economics. Her experience playing in the First Tee National Championship challenged her to be hardworking and patient. She said she continues to use other First Tee lessons. “I find that it is important to always apply respect, sportsmanship and courtesy to those you are playing with,” said Megan, who also won the 2022 PURE Insurance Championship.

Recently, Megan was a member of Team USA at the 2023 Junior Solheim Cup and a 2023 Rolex Scholastic Junior All-American. She’s currently in the Top 10 of the AJGA Rankings and plans to pursue professional golf.

Cooper Groshart
First Tee — Central Coast

Cooper won the 2023 First Tee National Championship at Stanford and now attends California State East Bay, as a business administration major and a member of the golf team. Confidence is a First Tee lesson that Cooper keeps with him today while playing competitive golf. His experience in the First Tee National Championship was inspiring, as he saw so many people from different places share the same drive to compete and succeed in golf, he said.

Cooper played in the 2023 U.S. Junior Amateur in Charleston. As a freshman, he competed in 12 tournaments with his college team and has been on the dean’s list both semesters. He said his goal is to continue to improve as a player and a person.

Learn more about the First Tee National Championship.

First Tee College Scholarship Program celebrates first graduating class

Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. – (May 14, 2024) – Four years ago, President George W. Bush had a big surprise for seven exemplary First Tee participants. First Tee’s honorary chair told the teens they were selected as inaugural members of the First Tee College Scholarship Program. Now the organization is thrilled to celebrate their graduation.

“Congratulations to the first graduating class of First Tee College Scholarship Program,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “We are very proud of your hard work and commitment, and we look forward to watching you move into the next stages of your journey. First Tee is proud to have played a role in your development.”

“First Tee is family,” said Ricky Lam, a First Tee Scholar who is graduating from Harvard University and pursuing a career in insurance. “Ultimately First Tee is a place where you have such a strong support system to be able to pursue your passions, ask for help, expand your horizons and network so you can be the person you strive to be.”

The First Tee College Scholarship Program is a need- and merit-based scholarship program through which Scholars receive financial support and access to a wide range of professional development opportunities. Each Scholar is paired with an adult mentor to ensure they are equipped with the tools they need to be successful in college and beyond.

“The First Tee College Scholarship Program really helped me find connections, especially with my mentor,” said Malisone Chanthanpanya, now a graduate student and member of the golf team at Texas Wesleyan University. Mali is one of three Scholars who graduated early to bring the total number of graduated First Tee Scholars to 10. “She was a great resource who I could talk to about not just college and my career but about life. I got to meet a lot of people through the scholarship program.”

The First Tee College Scholarship Program was launched in 2020, and it recognizes First Tee participants who have shown dedication to academics, community service and their First Tee chapters. It has since grown to include 70 Scholars, with the 2024 class slated to be announced next month.

Meet the graduates:

Luke Boldt
First Tee – Coastal Carolina / East Carolina University
He has accepted a position as a medical missionary for two years and plans to apply to medical school.

Malisone Chanthanpanya
First Tee – Fort Worth / Texas Wesleyan University
She’s in graduate school and prepping for LPGA Q-school in the fall.

Jessica Jiao
First Tee – Metropolitan New York / Georgetown University
She has accepted a position with BNP Paribas Bank in its equity capital markets department in New York.

Ricky Lam
First Tee–Tri-Valley / Harvard University
He has accepted a position with Sompo as a commercial underwriter.

Kelly Low
First Tee – Fort Worth / University of Texas at Dallas
She has accepted an offer with Amazon Web Services as an associate solutions architect in Austin.

Nicole Monsalve
First Tee – Miami / Duke University
She has accepted a position with the NFL in its two-year rotation program in New York.

Sara Rintoul
First Tee – Central Florida / University of Florida
She has accepted an offer at Proctor & Gamble as a brand manager in Boston.

Remi Shendell
First Tee – Metropolitan New York / Emory University
She is graduating with a double-major in biology and political science.

Borina Sutiko
First Tee – Silicon Valley / Santa Clara University
She hopes to attend Cal Berkely this fall to earn her master’s in information systems.

Denise Wei
First Tee – San Francisco / University of California, Irvine
She has accepted an offer with PwC in its audit division.

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Alignment

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