Category: Blog

Meet the Winners of the Wells Fargo Succeeding Together Contest

Empowering kids through a lifetime of new challenges and continuous personal growth is at the heart of First Tee. One of our participant opportunities, the Wells Fargo Succeeding Together Contest, shines a light on a few extraordinary participants and their personal journeys to become better students, citizens and golfers in an effort to prepare for life. These top four winners have proven in their writing and through their actions that leadership is always possible, and if we build a community, it is always possible to succeed together.

Grand Prize Winner: Raymond Jin, First Tee of Greater Trenton

Raymond first became involved with First Tee through his mother’s friend. Nervous and a bit shy, Raymond was naturally reluctant. But it turned out to be one of the best decisions he’s ever made. “As I progressed through the program, First Tee completely changed me as a person. Before, I was a shy little boy hiding behind my parents’ back. Now, I’m able to interact and form lasting relationships with people from all walks of life. I now embrace unconventionality and uncertainty and thrive in new and unfamiliar situations. Because of First Tee, I am able to make a difference in the lives of young people and those in my community. I am passionate about working with people and mentoring.” Involved with First Tee of Greater Trenton for six years, Raymond now serves as a junior coach mentoring young kids in the program. Outside his time with First Tee, he also has a budding career as an amateur musician. Competing as a classically trained violinist, Raymond was a competitor on China’s Got Talent, and finished second in the junior division. He also is a concertmaster and member of the All-State Orchestra. He has had internships with New Jersey Assemblyman Daniel R. Benson is also a Scholastic Gold and Silver Key in photography. He’s currently a junior in high school and his immediate goals include getting into college majoring in managerial business or financial engineering, with the goal of opening up his own business to serve underserved communities through professional development initiatives. He values the foundations of mentorship provided to him at First Tee of Greater Trenton and the meaning it has brought to his life. “I now understand the value of discovering talent in unorthodox places. Today, my students are my chief source of inspiration and constant, tireless improvement as a student, athlete, artist, musician, leader, mentor and citizen in the 21st Century. My students’ struggles are my test of strength, and their willingness to learn and ceaseless energy are the only compensation I need for a lifetime of public service.” Read Raymond’s essay that earned him a spot in the Wells Fargo Pro-am.

Jalyn Robinson, First Tee of Greater Sacramento (First Prize Winner)

Jalyn didn’t start seriously thinking about golf until sixth grade. It was then that she learned about the inviting nature of First Tee. “My mom and I were drawn to First Tee because you didn’t have to have a history with golf to be part of the program; plus, it wasn’t just about the technicalities of the sport. We participated in fun challenges, games and events. I had the chance to make amazing friendships.” As Jalyn has progressed through the program, she steadily transitioned to a leader in the program and credits First Tee with giving her the opportunity to create meaningful, personal friendships that have withstood the test of time. Jalyn dreams of playing collegiate golf, but certainly understands the challenges that can bring. She has learned to embrace those difficult challenges. “First Tee taught me to embrace failures because they are going to happen. How you choose to deal with that failure is what will truly impact you. First Tee not only taught me how to embrace my failures on the course, but also how to analyze, learn and move on from tough experiences off the course.” Jalyn also credits her mother with the encouragement that has led her to success. “She has always given me a listening ear, caring heart and comfortable shoulder to cry on when things are difficult for me to handle. Because of her, my passion to be the change I want to see becomes vivid each day.”

Kayli Lucas, First Tee of Tennessee (First Prize Winner)

Kayli was first introduced to First Tee from a church friend in sixth grade. Before entering First Tee, Kayli was introverted and says she had low self-esteem. As she progressed through the life skills and golf curriculum, she felt her demeanor change. “I wanted to be adventurous and try new opportunities, but my confidence did not match my ambitions… I had finally found a place to grow and express my interests. The camaraderie among participants and coaches is unparalleled at First Tee. As I began to mature and find myself as a person, I was supported and guided by those around me, and simultaneously, I was able to do the same for others.” Gaining self-confidence changed Kayli’s life. “I initially did not pass ‘Par’ after my first time attending the course, but the process of retaking and passing ‘Par’ taught me that a lack of confidence was my only limitation – not the opinion of others. After this pivotal event in my life, I began to flourish and break out of my shell in all aspects. As a student, I embraced my unique qualities and began to excel in not only the classroom, but also in social settings. I began to confidently express myself and develop friendships with everyone I met. On the golf course, my game entered an entirely new level. My newfound confidence and work ethic advanced me to enter the ACE Program at the start of my freshman year of high school.” Kayli played on the varsity golf team throughout her high school career, leading them to the regional tournament for the first time in the school’s history. She will attend the University of Alabama in the fall, majoring in biology. Though she doesn’t yet know her long-term career goals, Kayli hopes to continue her journey with First Tee by turning to her peers and mentors for counsel when faced with challenging decisions.

Maya Hunter, First Tee of Benton Harbor (First Prize Winner)

Maya began her First Tee journey at a very young age alongside her brother. Their local chapter had recently opened a location in their area. Even though Maya had never played golf before, her mother signed her up for a summer program. That summer program quickly turned into something more as she progressed through the program, falling in love with golf and the life lessons learned through First Tee. “The core values and everything else I learned positively impacted my life in many ways. Many of the lessons were easy to take into everyday life, like a simple confident handshake or earning and giving the respect we all deserve.” Maya recalls a time in her golf career where honesty was more important than winning. “Honesty is a true judge of character. If I can keep a reputation of honesty on the course and in life, which is quite hard sometimes, I believe I will be a step ahead of everyone at my level. I may not be physically better, but I am willing to make a hard decision to stay true to my moral code of honesty.” Maya will be entering her senior year of high school this fall. She hopes to win regionals and a state title and earn a full scholarship through a caddy program to a top university.
These four winners will attend the 2021 Wells Fargo Championship. As the Grand Prize Winner, Raymond will experience the thrill of playing golf with the PGA TOUR professional of his choice during the tournament’s pro-am. Thank you, Wells Fargo for your longstanding partnership and support of First Tee. Wells Fargo has renewed their commitment for the next five years to support First Tee’s youth development program. Thank you to all applicants, and congratulations to all finalists!

Chipping In – Spring 2020

Chipping In, our new donor and supporter newsletter, highlights the ways your contributions are making a difference in the lives of kids through the game of golf. Contents:
  • Sharing the game with Neighborhood House
  • President’s message
  • Core Value corner
  • Game growers
  • 2020 summer programs
  • Alumni spotlight
  • New school partners
  • You’re invited – 2020 signature events
View Chipping In – Spring 2020  

Continuous Learning Never Looked So Fun

Top 5 First Tee Chapter Activities Amidst COVID-19

Like the rest of the world, we’re adjusting to our “new normal” and how we keep our participants engaged during this time of social distancing. Our chapters have stepped up to the challenge to provide fun and exciting digital activities to keep kids moving and empowered to take on whatever challenges come their way. We invite you and your family to join us in these character-building activities that can be done wherever you are! You can find these posts and many more on our First Tee social channels. Be sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for more information.

First Tee of Greater Philadelphia

First Tee of Greater Philadelphia is offering virtual classes taught by their experienced coaches.

First Tee of Greater Charlotte

First Tee of Greater Charlotte is offering daily programming that includes special guests ranging from professional golfers to participants.

First Tee of the Triangle

First Tee of the Triangle is featuring activities and ideas – like healthy habits – that incorporate the entire family!

First Tee of Cleveland

First Tee of Cleveland has added cooking classes to their social media, including Coach Brian and his special guest Rylee who participate in the “Fit to a Tee Culinary Class” together.

First Tee of Greater Knoxville

First Tee of Greater Knoxville is promoting the opportunity for participants in the area to rent out equipment for free so that they can practice at home. These times can be challenging, but know that we are all in this together and we will continue to serve as a resource to help your kids stay active, healthy and resilient.

First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin Launches First Tee at Home

The First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin has launched First Tee at Home, an online resource for parents, kids and families featuring golf-themed activities, games and more. First Tee at Home is available on the First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin’s website at www.firstteesoutheastwisconsin.org/programs/first-tee-at-home/. Many of the First Tee at Home activities focus on the First Tee’s life skills curriculum and concepts including the First Tee Nine Core Values and Nine Healthy Habits. The activities are designed for kids to follow at home, without a need for golf-specific equipment. Activities and resources are also being shared on the First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin’s social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram). Over the next few weeks, First Tee at Home will be updated with even more activities and games that will help keep the minds and bodies of local kids active at home. Participants are encouraged to share their accomplishments on social media by tagging @FirstTeeSEW and using the hashtag #GolfAtHome. “The First Tee values are even more important right now and remain a key focus of the First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin’s outreach to children and their families during times of challenge and uncertainty,” said David Cohn, executive director at the First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin. “By reimagining the ways in which we connect with kids, we continue to work hard to share positive traits with young people through the game of golf. Whether shared virtually or in-person, these traits continue to teach our kids to become better people and help them live their healthiest, most fulfilling lives.” First Tee at Home content is also being used to adapt the First Tee National School Program to a virtual learning environment. The First Tee National School Program helps students develop an appreciation for the positive personal and social values associated with golf. Through an introduction to golf, students engage in safe, fun lesson activities that lead to motor skill development while gaining an introduction to a lifelong recreation and health-enhancing activity. By sharing First Tee at Home resources with students, local elementary school physical teachers are offering new ways to keep their kids active and healthy at home. “The First Tee of Southeastern Wisconsin has worked to continue to assist schools and students with high quality curriculum during this challenging time,” said Tim Mueller, physical education teacher at Erin School. I am very thankful to be able to partner with the First Tee and have their golf at home resources to share with my students.  Providing at-home golf and fitness activities, as well as continuing to encourage my students to developing the Nine Core Values and the Nine Healthy Habits, has been a big blessing. The First Tee continues to prove to be an outstanding program with valuable resources and curriculum for all students.” For more information about First Tee at Home, click here.

Milwaukee Academy of Science and The First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin Team Up to Help Students Learn Golf Skills with Life Lessons

Elementary school students at Milwaukee Academy of Science (MAS) will be introduced to the basic skills of golf along with character and health education in their physical education program. Milwaukee Academy of Science is teaming up with The First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin to implement The First Tee National School Program. It will be taught by physical educators using safe, fun lesson plans provided in the program’s curriculum. In addition to teaching golf skills, including putting, chipping, pitching and full swings, health activities will help students to learn about physical, social and emotional wellness. “We are always looking for ways to overlap our physical activity opportunities with social-emotional learning here at MAS, so The First Tee is the perfect organization for us to work with to achieve both,” said Kurt Hansen, physical education teacher at Milwaukee Academy of Science. “The golf curriculum and equipment are so much more than just sports equipment to us; they are a way to teach and reinforce the key concepts that The First Tee promotes, like integrity, respect, perseverance, and making healthy choices. We are so grateful to kick off this new partnership.” “We are excited to partner with Milwaukee Academy of Science to bring The First Tee National School Program to their students,” said Tom Gerke, The First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin’s program director. “Their dedication to teaching values and life skills to their students aligns perfectly with The First Tee Nine Core Values and Nine Healthy Habits. By introducing the game of golf and its inherent principles, the program will help Milwaukee Academy of Science continue to develop their students into outstanding citizens within our community.” Launched in 2004, The First Tee National School Program helps students develop an appreciation for the positive personal and social values associated with golf. Students engage in safe, fun lesson activities that lead to motor skill development and while gaining an introduction to a lifelong recreation and health-enhancing activity. The curriculum was developed by The First Tee along with leading experts in physical education and positive youth development. It is aligned with and meets national standards developed by the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE). Physical educators delivering the program are formally trained and certified by The First Tee and use safe, developmentally-appropriate lesson plans and equipment in their classes. Funding for the program was provided by Milwaukee Academy of Science and The First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin. Nationwide, more than 8,000 schools in 1,200 school districts have introduced to The First Tee National School Program. In Southeast Wisconsin, more than 75 schools have implemented the program. For more information about The First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin and The First Tee National School Program, visit www.thefirstteesew.org. For more about Milwaukee Academy of Science, visit www.milwaukeeacademyofscience.org.

New research highlights The First Tee’s impact on and off the course

The First Tee has published new national research highlighting the positive impact The First Tee and its programs are making for participants on and off the course. The survey asked participants to answer two questions, “Because of The First Tee, I…” and “Provide an example of an adult mentor relationship at The First Tee that has been significant to you and explain why.” Highlights include:
  • 87% of participants say they have an improved sense of empowerment
    • “Gave me a greater sense of confidence.”
    • “Taught me perseverance…to never give up.”
  • 85% have personal ownership of The First Tee’s Nine Core Values
    • Honesty, Integrity, Sportsmanship, Respect, Confidence, Responsibility, Perseverance, Courtesy
  • 81% demonstrate self-improvement/personal transformation
    • “I’m making better decisions.”
    • “I’ve become a better version of myself.”
This success is reflected locally as well. In a recent survey of 2018 program participant parents, 81% of respondents said that their children benefited from The First Tee character education. These parents described this impact by saying:
  • “[My child] improved golf skills, etiquette and confidence.”
  • “They have learned respect, patience.”
  • “It has built his confidence and social skills and created a foundation of motivation to strive for success.”
The First Tee is making a difference here in Southeast Wisconsin through the game of golf. For more information on how you can get involved, visit firstteesoutheastwisconsin.org. View Research

Wisconsin junior golfers selected to compete in second annual Irwin Cup

Adalyn Johnston and Cooper McLaughlin from The First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin have been selected to compete in the second annual Irwin Cup golf tournament, an interstate golf tournament held at The Jewel Golf Club in Lake City, Minnesota on Monday, August 6, 2018. The First Tee and The Jewel Golf Club named the event in honor of PGA TOUR Champions player Hale Irwin, a long-time supporter of The First Tee who also designed the course at The Jewel Golf Club. The First Tee selected eight kids from each state’s chapters of The First Tee in Minnesota, South Dakota, Iowa and Wisconsin.  Each team will compete in a Ryder Cup format for The Irwin Cup.  Johnston and McLaughlin are The First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin participants at Rolling Meadows Golf Course in Fond du Lac. “We are extremely excited to have Adalyn and Cooper represent The First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin as part of Team Wisconsin in the second annual Irwin Cup,” said David Cohn, executive director of The First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin. “Adalyn and Cooper are active members of the program at Rolling Meadows and have embraced The First Tee Nine Core Values on and off the golf course. They are very deserving of this opportunity.”

The First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin Helps National Guard Pilot Bring Golf Overseas

Burlington native and National Guard Pilot, Cody Biedrzycki found a new passion for the game of golf while last serving overseas. “While on deployment as a helicopter pilot in a remote location, an oasis of sorts appeared – ‘A little 9-hole golf course.'” reports Fox 6 Milwaukee. Yet, without clubs, Cody reached out to Erin Hills to see if they would help. With quick response they were happy to help provide clothing and accessories, in turn reaching out to The First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin to provide the needed clubs. From the numerous donations provided by our donors, we were happy to help, and promptly shipped clubs to Cody and his fellow troops. As our Executive Director, David Cohn, said “What a great way to connect the dots and show respect for the troops that are serving our country overseas other than sending some golf clubs over there where they can enjoy the game from where they are.” After returning home Cody “added another uniform to his fatigues.” You can now find him as a caddie at Erin Hills, the home of 2017 U.S Open. Check out the story and video at Fox 6 here!

Golf returns to Washington High School

It has been a long time since Washington High School had a golf team. So when third year Washington High School of Information Technology teacher Ethan Littel came looking for some help with restarting the school’s golf team, The First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin was happy to help. Our programming director, Tom Gerke wanted to help in any way possible, so knowing that the team didn’t have any means to rent practice space or buy clubs, on behalf of The First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin, Tom provided the school with 24 sets of clubs and the ability to use our home location, Noyes Park, as practice space. The golf team could not be more appreciative, as Littel says, “The updated clubs and bags are a huge blessing and the team is so excited to put them to use. Thank you again for the opportunities and experiences you provide to so many young people around the area!” This would not be possible without the numerous donations provided from our generous benefactors. We appreciate the continued support! Watch the whole story on TMJ4.

Erin School and Erin Hills Team Up to Help Students Learn Golf Skills with Life Lessons

Elementary school students at Erin School in the Town of Erin will be introduced to the basic skills of golf along with character and health education in their physical education program. Erin School is teaming up with neighboring Erin Hills Golf Course to implement The First Tee National School Program. It will be taught by physical educators using safe, fun lesson plans provided in the program’s curriculum. The health activities were recently added for students to learn about physical, social and emotional wellness. Nationwide, more than 8,000 schools in 1,200 school districts have introduced to The First Tee National School Program. Erin School will be the first school offering the program in Washington County. “We are very thankful for the partnership we have between Erin Hills Golf Course and Erin School,” said Tim Mueller, physical education teacher at Erin School. “The golf curriculum and equipment that Erin Hills has provided for our physical education program through The First Tee will be an incredible benefit for all of our kindergarten through fifth grade students. Our students will be introduced to the lifetime sport of golf through well designed lessons that provide fun learning experiences. The First Tee lessons also incorporate health and character education that will enhance our existing curriculum. Using this golf curriculum will help us reinforce key concepts that we teach in other physical education units such as integrity, respect, perseverance, and making healthy choices. A big thank you to Erin Hills!” “Erin Hills has long supported amateur golf, and helping to introduce golf to our neighbors is an extension of this core belief in the positive effects of golf,” said Alex Allister, Erin Hills’ Senior Accountant who connected Erin School and the First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin. Launched in 2004, The First Tee National School Program helps students develop an appreciation for the positive personal and social values associated with golf. Students engage in safe, fun lesson activities that lead to motor skill development and while gaining an introduction to a lifelong recreation and health-enhancing activity. The curriculum was developed by The First Tee along with leading experts in physical education and positive youth development. It is aligned with and meets national standards developed by the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE). Physical educators delivering the program are formally trained and certified by The First Tee and use safe, developmentally-appropriate lesson plans and equipment in their classes. The lesson plans include The First Tee Nine Healthy Habits, which were developed in partnership with the ANNIKA Foundation and Florida Hospital for Children. According to a survey among 860 physical educators using The First Tee National School Program curriculum, 66 percent reported using The First Tee Nine Core Values—character education seamlessly delivered as part of the program—in other sports and activities they teach beyond golf. A third-party case study conducted in one Midwestern school district in 2011 further validated the program where administrators and physical educators reported finding great value in the program. For more information about The First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin and The First Tee National School Program, visit www.thefirstteesew.org. For more about Erin School, visit www.erinschool.org.

Team Wisconsin Takes Inaugural Irwin Cup

By Jason Kauflin On August 16, the first ever Irwin Cup was staged at The Jewel Golf Club in Lake City, Minnesota. The event brought together junior golfers from The First Tee chapters in Wisconsin and Minnesota, pitting them against each other in a Ryder Cup-style format. Each team consisted of eight junior golfers: two boys and two girls from both 12-14 and 15-18 age divisions. Team Wisconsin was represented by juniors from the Southeast, South Central, and Northeast chapters. Team Minnesota was represented by the Twin Cities and Three Rivers Park District chapters. Juniors were paired together to face off against a duo from the opposing state and played three separate 6-hole matches each worth one point. When all the scores were added up, Team Wisconsin came out ahead 7-1/2 to 4-1/2 to win the inaugural Irwin Cup. The genesis of the Irwin Cup can be traced back to the 2016 Ryder Cup held at Hazeltine Golf Club in Minnesota. Glenn Hasse had been a Trustee of The First Tee since 2010 and was looking to give back. Along with his wife, Kay, Glenn bought The Jewel in 2008 during some dire financial straits for the course. Finding an event to combine his wonderful property with supporting today’s young golfers was a natural fit. “I was looking for something to utilize the course and something for the young kids in The First Tee,” Mr. Hasse explains, “after all, competition like this is what it’s all about.” During the 2016 Ryder Cup, Glenn approached some of his contacts at The First Tee about hosting an event at his “little place just down the street.” Once momentum for the event began to build, naming the competition became paramount. As the original course designer and a junior golf supporter in his own right, the legendary Hale Irwin was asked to lend his name to the event. Hale was more than happy to assist, and the Irwin Cup was born. The event was truly a family affair. Parents from both states followed each group, and a post round awards lunch was hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Hasse. Glenn thanked all the families in attendance and presented each member of the winning team with a medal, while Kay was busy manning the lemonade stand at the end of the buffet line. Also on hand for the event was Jen Weiler, Sr. Vice President Chief Development Officer for The First Tee.  “We really want to promote regional events like this because it does give kids that competition that they might lack just at the chapter level,” Jen said. She also enjoyed seeing the kids from different areas creating quick bonds as they competed together. “They probably have exchanged cell phone numbers and Instagram handles to keep in touch with each other. I love seeing that, I think it’s just great!” Plans for the 2018 Irwin Cup are already underway. One goal in mind would be to move the Irwin Cup as close to the 3M Championship as possible. That way they may be able to involve Hale Irwin and other PGA Tour Champion players who are supporters of The First Tee. Glenn Hasse also hopes to expand the event to four states, with teams from Iowa and the Dakotas joining the fray. He would love to see regional The First Tee events established where a team would have to qualify to make it to the Irwin Cup. “We could have some regional competitions, and whoever is the best in that area gets to come,” says Glenn.  As Kay Hasse added, “Sounds good to me!”