Teams from across MPS gather at Noyes Park Golf Course ahead of the championship round.
(Oct. 12, 2025) – The MPS Girls City Conference Championship was held last week at Noyes Park, bringing together teams from Riverside, Golda Meir, Rufus King, Vincent, Ronald Reagan, and South Division for a full day of competition and recognition.
This year’s championship adopted a formal 9-hole format to provide players with ample time for warm-up, on-course play, and participation in skills contests. The schedule included range time, putting and long drive competitions, and an awards ceremony to close the event.
A Golda Meir golfer lines up her putt on the 7th hole at Noyes Park Golf Course.
Awards were presented for team and individual performances, including top overall finishers and hole-specific contests such as longest putt and closest to the pin.
Throughout the event, players demonstrated competitive focus, sportsmanship, and enthusiasm, reflecting the continued growth of girls golf within Milwaukee Public Schools.
Thank you to Milwaukee Public Schools and the City Conference for their partnership and commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for student-athletes across the district.
Top individual finishers proudly display their trophies following the awards ceremony.
The iconic golf destination is being recognized for decades of commitment toyouth development
PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. (Sept. 23, 2025) – Youth development organization First Tee today announced Pebble Beach Company as the recipient of its Lifetime Achievement Award. This prestigious honor recognizes the company’s unwavering commitment to supporting First Tee’s mission of building future leaders through golf.
“On behalf of Pebble Beach Company, we are honored to receive First Tee’s Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Heidi Ueberroth, Co-Chair of Pebble Beach Company. “We have witnessed firsthand how First Tee transforms participants into confident leaders, and we are proud to play a role, including serving as the backdrop for these life-changing moments. This partnership embodies our dedication to youth development and demonstrates how the game of golf can open doors and create opportunities for the next generation.”
Pebble Beach Company has demonstrated dedication to youth development by consistently offering its exceptional venues to First Tee initiatives. More than a thousand First Tee participants have competed in the PURE Insurance Championship, a unique PGA TOUR Champions event hosted at Pebble Beach Golf Links since 2004 with Spyglass Hill Golf Course joining as co-host in 2021. Pebble Beach Company has also played a pivotal role in advancing First Tee’s mission by providing access to its incredible courses, venues and views in support of First Tee events over the years.
“Beyond its status as a world-class golf destination, Pebble Beach Company has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to philanthropy and community support, understanding that true greatness extends far beyond the boundaries of even the most famous golf course,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of First Tee. “For more than 20 years, First Tee has been a beneficiary of that commitment.”
Pebble Beach Company’s support of the PURE Insurance Championship has provided invaluable experiences for First Tee participants and alumni, giving them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at an impressionable age to forge mentorships and build confidence.
The Lifetime Achievement Award honors Pebble Beach Company’s sustained commitment to helping First Tee grow and succeed over more than two decades.
First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin, legendary quarterback Steve Young, First Tee Honorary Chair Jim Nantz, Pebble Beach co-chairs Heidi Ueberroth, Brian Ferris and Bill Perocchi, and PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan pose with a declaration celebrating Pebble Beach Company’s support of First Tee.
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 17th 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.
(Sept. 23, 2025) – Recently, our team had the joy of visiting Children’s Wisconsin, where we spent an afternoon sharing not just golf, but moments of happiness, confidence, and connection with young patients and their families.
Kids practiced putting, tried their hand at chipping, and spent time coloring golf balls while adding their own creativity between swings. Smiles and encouragement filled the space as children explored something new, supported one another, and found pride in each accomplishment.
These visits remind us that golf is more than a game. It offers encouragement, teaches resilience, and creates space for confidence to grow in meaningful ways. We are grateful for the opportunity to bring a bit of light to those receiving care and to support families through positive, uplifting experiences.
We look forward to continuing our visits throughout the year, ensuring more children can experience moments like these.
This September, 80 First Tee participants from across the country will arrive at Pebble Beach for the PURE Insurance Championship Impacting First Tee. Among them is 16-year-old Henry Seufert from East Grand Rapids, Michigan, who will be following in the footsteps of his two older brothers.
Henry joined First Tee – West Michigan at 7 with his older brothers, Charlie and Jack. At 15 he became a First Tee junior coach like both of his brothers before him.
“I aspire to one day become a lead coach, like Charlie, and one day inspire other young golfers as Charlie influenced me,” Henry said.
Henry comes from a family of golfers, so his parents enrolled him in First Tee for the life skills and youth development aspects of the program. Throughout their time in the program, his brothers forged a reputation of exceptional dedication and leadership, and Henry’s coaches say he has diligently done the same.
In 2022, shortly after he played in the PURE Insurance Championship, Henry’s older brother Charlie received a heart transplant.
“After Charlie’s heart transplant, golf became his inspiration: His goal was to recover to play varsity golf two months later,” said Henry. “He achieved this goal, with the best season of his high school career. His story motivates me throughout life, especially on the golf course, proving to me that anybody can do anything.”
As Henry prepares for Pebble Beach, he carries with him the lessons learned from a decade in First Tee and the inspiration of his older brothers. Watching his brother’s recovery reinforced the lessons of perseverance and goal-setting that Henry has been learning as a First Tee participant.
Now, as Henry prepares for his own championship experience, he carries not just his family’s golfing tradition, but their commitment to First Tee’s mission. As a junior coach, he works with younger participants, sharing the same enthusiasm and dedication that his brothers once brought to their coaching roles.
The PURE Insurance Championship Impacting First Tee represents more than just a prestigious golf tournament; it’s a celebration of the young people who embody First Tee’s values both on and off the course. For Henry, earning his spot among the 80 participants nationwide validates years of hard work and growth within the program, he said.
Participants at the championship will engage with PGA Tour Champions professionals and experience one of golf’s most iconic venues.
Falk at Noyes Park Golf Course, where she continues to inspire the next generation of golfers.
(Sep. 10, 2025) – Katie Falk has built a legacy in Wisconsin golf, both through her championship career and her dedication to developing youth through the game. From her early days as a determined 11-year-old competitor to her decades of dominance on the state and national stage, Falk’s journey reflects not just a passion for the game, but a belief in its power to teach, empower, and bring people together. Her involvement with First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin spans 25 years, marked by leadership, service, and a lifelong investment in youth development. Now in her 8th year as a board member and serving as an active volunteer, Katie remains committed to building a stronger game and brighter future for the youth we serve.
From First Swings to the Hall of Fame
Falk first picked up a club in Fond du Lac, where her father introduced her to the game. By 11, she was playing in tournaments, often traveling to compete across Wisconsin. “I remember how excited I was just to play,” she recalls. “There weren’t many opportunities for girls, so I played wherever I could.” Falk had to carve her own path and became one of the first girls in Wisconsin to qualify for her high school’s boys’ team, holding her own in competition and proving that talent transcends gender barriers.
Over the years, Falk built one of the most decorated amateur golf careers in Wisconsin history. She won 21 state titles, including multiple WWSGA Match Play championships and the 1973 Women’s Western Amateur, where she defeated future LPGA legend Nancy Lopez. She competed in more than 250 state tournaments and played in over two dozen USGA championships, including the U.S. Women’s Open and U.S. Women’s Senior Amateur. Ranked as high as 10th nationally, Falk’s precision, short game mastery, and competitive fire carried her across seven decades of play, earning her induction into the Wisconsin Golf Hall of Fame.
Katie Falk greets Nancy Lopez during the 1998 U.S. Women’s Open at Blackwolf Run in Kohler. (Photo / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
Lessons Beyond the Scorecard
Despite her many achievements, Falk is quick to emphasize the basics when she teaches juniors at First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin programming. She stresses the importance of short game, etiquette, and patience. “It’s not always about hitting it the farthest,” she says. “Golf teaches you honesty, resilience, and how to recover when things don’t go your way.”
Off the course, Falk has been a realtor since 1974, serving as a partner at Falk Ruvin Gallagher, and has lent her expertise to several boards, but golf has remained a constant source of purpose — as a competitor, mentor, and volunteer. She credits the game with shaping her discipline and determination, qualities she strives to pass on to others.
Giving Back with First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin
Falk’s passion for golf extends far beyond her own game, inspiring and mentoring the next generation through her work with First Tee. She has served as a dedicated board member while also volunteering at First Tee’s Lake Park programming and at Noyes Park during Neighborhood House of Milwaukee sessions. At Lake Park, she supports Program Director Tom Gerke by working one-on-one with participants, encouraging them to enjoy the game and stay engaged. Her approach is rooted in simplicity and fun — ensuring that kids not only learn golf skills, but also develop a genuine love for the game.
“I’m really more of a listener than a teacher,” she says. “Tom is such a wonderful coach — he keeps things simple. I’ll step in with a few things here and there, but mostly I just try to let them be and have fun. Because if they’re having fun, they’ll keep playing.”
Her words reflect not just a coaching philosophy, but a genuine care for creating positive, lasting experiences for young golfers.
With Neighborhood House of Milwaukee, Falk helps to bring the game to children who might otherwise not have the chance to play. “It’s about more than golf,” she explains. “It’s about giving kids a place to grow, learn values, and feel supported.”
Katie Falk teaching young golfers during a Neighborhood House of Milwaukee session. Sharing lessons in golf and life as she helps students with their swings.
Lasting Impact
Katie Falk’s story is one of persistence, passion, and generosity. Her mark is found not only on leaderboards, but in the lives of countless young players who see in her a model of what’s possible when talent meets determination.
As she continues to compete, mentor, and give back, one thing is certain: Katie Falk’s impact on Wisconsin golf will continue to be felt for generations.
Inspired by Katie’s story? Join us as a mentor and help young golfers grow on and off the course. Learn more about how you can get involved.
By Kristin Westberg – Senior Director, Training & Evaluation
At First Tee, we believe every child deserves a safe, welcoming and empowering space to grow — both on and off the golf course. That’s why we place such a strong emphasis on class management. But what does that mean for your child?
It means we’re committed to creating an environment where your child feels seen, supported and inspired — not just to learn golf, but to build confidence, character and life skills.
Building relationships first
Our coaches start by getting to know each participant. Greeting kids by name, asking about their day and showing genuine interest helps your child feel like they belong. When children feel respected and valued, they’re more likely to engage positively and feel confident in their surroundings.
Clear expectations = safe kids
We work with participants to set clear, age-appropriate expectations that keep everyone safe and focused. For example:
“Stop, look and listen on the coach’s signal.”
“Stay in the safety zone when not hitting.”
“Only swing in the hitting area.”
By involving kids in creating these expectations, they understand not just the rules, but the reasons behind them. This helps them take ownership of their behavior and feel more invested in the group’s success.
Keeping kids engaged and active
We know that kids learn best when they’re active and having fun. That’s why our sessions are designed to keep everyone moving, learning and participating. We use stations, group rotations and fun visuals to keep things fresh and safe. Even when it’s not their turn, kids are encouraged to help a partner or review what they’ve learned.
And safety isn’t just physical — it’s emotional too. Our coaches use positive reinforcement and fair, consistent responses to behavior, helping every child feel secure and supported.
Consistency builds confidence
Simple cues like a whistle or a phrase (“1, 2, 3, all eyes on me”) help coaches get kids’ attention quickly and respectfully. Using the same cues across all classes helps your child know what to expect, which builds confidence and comfort.
Our coaches are trained to support your child
At First Tee, our coaches are more than instructors — they’re mentors. Each coach receives training in youth development, class management and safety practices. We also partner with trusted organizations like the Positive Coaching Alliance to ensure our team is equipped with the latest tools and strategies to support your child’s growth — on and off the course. Through ongoing learning and development, our coaches are prepared to create a positive, inclusive and empowering experience for every participant.
Together, we’re creating a space where your child can feel safe, supported and ready to grow — not just as a golfer, but as a person. Because when we manage our classes with care, we make room for character to shine.
First Tee – South Puget Sound alumna Carly Ikei is preparing for her first season of collegiate golf at Western Washington University. But despite embarking on an exciting new chapter, she’s not giving up her connection to First Tee.
“I want to stay connected to First Tee as an alumna because I think it’s a great program and it gives so many great opportunities to make new friends and to play golf,” she said. “My biggest takeaway from First Tee – South Puget Sound is that meeting new people is always a fun experience.”
She recently joined a group of fellow former First Tee participants for a Seattle Mariners game at T-Mobile Park hosted by the First Tee Alumni Network, which aims to facilitate networking, professional and personal development opportunities for First Tee alumni.
For Carly, the game of golf has always been about more than just swings and scores. It’s about connection, growth and pushing herself to new heights, both on and off the course.
One highlight of her First Tee experience was competing in the Gearheart Cup, a friendly tournament between chapters in South Puget Sound, Greater Seattle and Oregon. Held in the scenic town of Seaside, Oregon, the event wasn’t just about competition; it was about community. “It’s a lot of fun to connect with other First Tee members,” Carly said. “It’s such a unique chance to make new friends through golf.”
Carly also represented First Tee – South Puget Sound as a competitor at the PURE Insurance Championship, a PGA TOUR Champions event at Pebble Beach, where she played alongside Shane Bertsch.
Carly’s dedication and talent on the golf course are undeniable. As she heads to Western Washington University to join the golf team, Carly is excited to travel, compete and experience the camaraderie of collegiate athletics, she said.
But her achievements extend far beyond the fairway. She recently earned her associate’s degree in computer science while finishing high school.
To help us bring more life-changing programs to teens, donate today.
Participants, volunteers, and community leaders gathered at Currie Park Golf Course for the third annual Fellowship Youth Clinic, celebrating a day of learning, mentorship, and fun.
MILWAUKEE (Aug. 10, 2025)– In partnership with the Fellowship Open, MKE Fellows, We Black We Golf, Kappa League, and PGA REACH Wisconsin, First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin hosted the third annual Fellowship Youth Clinic at Currie Park Golf Course on August 8. The event provided a hands-on introduction to golf while connecting young participants with community mentors who inspire growth both on and off the course.
Learning the Game Through Fun and Practice
At the clinic, young golfers explored the fundamentals of the game in a fun, interactive environment. Coaches and volunteers guided participants through various activities, helping them develop skills in putting, chipping, and full swings.
Beyond technique, the clinic emphasized teamwork, patience, and sportsmanship—key lessons that go hand-in-hand with the sport. Participants learned that golf is not just about hitting a golf ball, but also about setting goals, practicing persistence, and supporting others.
Young golfers practiced their swings and developed skills under the guidance of First Tee coaches and volunteers, building confidence on and off the course.
Inspiring Talks from Community Leaders
After a morning of practice, participants shared lunch together and joined a program featuring community leaders and speakers. These mentors shared personal stories of perseverance, leadership, and giving back, helping young golfers see the connections between life lessons and the lessons learned on the course.
Events like the Fellowship Youth Clinic create opportunities for young participants to build meaningful relationships with role models who encourage them to thrive in every aspect of life.
David Cohn, CEO of First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin and John Daniels III, President & Director of MKE Fellows, led discussions on leadership and life lessons, connecting golf skills with personal growth.
Building Confidence On and Off the Course
Through programs like this, First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin provides more than just golf instruction. Young golfers leave not only with improved skills, but also with increased confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. By connecting kids with mentors and peers, these experiences foster personal growth and inspire a lifelong love of the game.
The success of the Fellowship Youth Clinic would not be possible without our partners. We are grateful to the Fellowship Open, MKE Fellows, We Black We Golf, Kappa League, and PGA REACH Wisconsin for their support and dedication to creating meaningful opportunities for young golfers. Together, we’re helping the next generation thrive both on and off the golf course.
First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin participant tees off with confidence.
MILWAUKEE (Aug. 2, 2025) – First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin hosted a special Community Day in partnership with Milwaukee Parks Foundation and the 2025 Healthy County Challenge, joined by Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. The event was a celebration of more than just golf—it was about bringing people together, fostering connections, and making the game accessible to everyone in the community.
Teeing Off in Style
The day kicked off with a ceremonial tee shot by County Executive Crowley, setting the tone for a lively day of golf, fun, and camaraderie. From free golf clinics to hands-on instruction, participants of all ages had the chance to learn, practice, and enjoy the game in a welcoming environment.
Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley joins a participant on the green as they read their putts.
Community and Gratitude
First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin is grateful to our partners and volunteers for helping make the day a success. Their support ensures that golf continues to be a platform for youth development, community engagement, and healthy, active living. We loved seeing both new faces and returning players embrace the game, and we look forward to more opportunities to connect and grow together.
The Milwaukee Parks Foundation welcomed guests at their information table and shared resources with the community.
Join the Movement
Whether you’re picking up a club for the first time or a seasoned golfer, First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin is committed to making golf a sport for all. Stay tuned for upcoming events and programs where the community can come together, learn, and thrive through the game of golf.
Through golf, young people can find more than athletic skill. They can discover a pathway to personal growth, leadership development and lasting community impact.
For 17-year-old Finley Mentzel, First Tee has been an integral part of her leadership journey. The guidance and support Finley has experienced through First Tee – Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky have been foundational in developing her character both on and off the course, she said.
This summer, Finley will attend First Tee’s Game Changers Academy. Now in its 25th year, the weeklong event brings together teens from across the country for meaningful discussions on self-awareness, inclusive leadership and community building – skills they will carry with them throughout their lives.
“This experience has inspired me to lead and make a difference on and off the course,” she said. “I’ve learned so much and want to create more positive change in my community,” Finley said.
Finley joined First Tee – Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky at age 8 with her older brother Henry, who’s now a First Tee Scholar, and fraternal twin Tiernan, an attendee at the First Tee’s Game Changers Academy in 2024. Throughout her golf journey, Finley has received mentorship that she believes has shaped her into the athlete, student and friend she is.
“First Tee helped me by teaching me life skills in how to manage work, hard teachers and to set smaller goals to accomplish larger ones,” said Finley. “The First Tee lessons and coaches have helped me accomplish many things both big and small.”
Finley currently serves as a volunteer coach and participant advisor, known by her coaches and peers for her patience and ability to connect with participants of all skill levels.
Last fall, Finley attended the First Tee Innovator’s Forum in Phoenix, Arizona. Her experience resulted in a community service project that aims to connect chapter alumni with current participants. Her chapter is currently working to implement it.
Finley plans to pursue a career in the health care industry after college with hopes of someday working in a children’s hospital. She hopes to combine her passion for working with children with her desire to make an impact on her community.
Mayo Clinic supports First Tee’s Game Changers Academy, helping to prepare the next generation of leaders, including those in the health care industry like Finley.
Golf Channel announced the full field of teens which includes exceptional students, tournament winners and committed collegiate golfers
PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. (July 8, 2025) – First Tee and PGA TOUR Champions are proud to announce the 80 exceptional teens selected to compete in the 2025 PURE Insurance Championship Impacting First Tee, to be held September 19–21 at the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill Golf Course.
The annual tournament is hosted by PURE Insurance and the Monterey Peninsula Foundation and broadcast internationally on Golf Channel. It uniquely pairs First Tee participants with PGA TOUR Champions professionals and amateurs from the business world for a week of competition and mentorship. The teens, ages 15 to 18, represent 48 First Tee chapters nationwide and will compete for the male and female pro-junior titles.
Participants were chosen based on both their golf skills and personal growth through First Tee’s youth development programs. This year’s class boasts an average GPA of 3.89 and nearly seven years of involvement with First Tee.
“The PURE Insurance Championship is more than a golf tournament — it’s a celebration of the dedication, perseverance and character of First Tee juniors,” said Katie Krum, Chief Marketing Officer at PURE Insurance. “Having experienced firsthand the lasting impact of youth sports, I am proud to support such a worthy cause and thrilled to share that we have extended our title sponsorship commitment through 2029 and continue championing these inspiring young leaders.”
The 2025 junior field was announced live on Golf Channel, featuring an interview with Dylan Au, an alumnus of First Tee – Greater Seattle, who competed in the 2024 PURE Insurance Championship alongside Fred Couples. Au will begin pre-med classes at the University of Washington this fall.
In addition, Marley Pedrique of First Tee – Florida Gold Coast earned an exemption into the tournament by finishing third at the 2025 First Tee National Championship, held in June at the University of Notre Dame’s Warren Course.
“This moment represents years of hard work and dedication for these 80 teens,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of First Tee. “Thanks to our partners at PURE Insurance, PGA TOUR Champions, Pebble Beach Resorts, the Monterey Peninsula Foundation and Golf Channel for supporting this event. It is a week filled with incredible golf, mentorship and invaluable life lessons.”
This year’s PGA TOUR Champions field will include legends such as David Duval, Ernie Els, Vijay Singh and defending champion Paul Broadhurst. Clint Eastwood returns as chairman of the PURE Insurance Championship.
Tournament play begins Friday on both Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill Golf Course. Following Saturday’s rounds, the top 24 juniors will advance to Sunday’s final round at Pebble Beach, where one male and one female First Tee participant will be crowned champions.
The junior field for 2025 PURE Insurance Championshipcan be viewed here.
