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.
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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.
Drawing on decades of professional golf instruction experience, Coach Tom provides individual attention that helps participants not just improve their swing, but develop the patience and focus that will serve them well beyond the golf course.
At First Tee, we believe that character is what you bring to everything you do. It’s what allows you to walk away from failure determined, not defeated. This philosophy comes to life through the dedicated professionals who guide our young people, and there’s no better example than our Program Director, Tom Gerke, PGA.
Tom’s journey in golf began as a caddie at Tripoli Country Club in Milwaukee, where he discovered not just a passion for the game, but a calling to share it with others. From those early days carrying bags, he worked his way through the pro shop while attending UW-Milwaukee, eventually deciding that golf was the industry where he wanted to make his mark.
A Path Built on Excellence and Experience
Tom’s career trajectory reads like a masterclass in golf education. He climbed the ladder from assistant professional to managing entire golf course operations, but his true expertise emerged in academy settings where he led teams of instructors. His role wasn’t just about teaching golf—it was about teaching others how to teach, ensuring consistency, and creating successful learning experiences.
This expertise took him internationally when he worked with LPGA legend Lorena Ochoa in Mexico. Tom wrote comprehensive teaching manuals in both English and Spanish, opened academies across the country, and trained staff at resorts and country clubs. The experience of working at the professional level with Ochoa gave him invaluable insights into how elite athletes think compared to recreational golfers—knowledge he now brings to every First Tee session.
More Than Just Golf Instruction
What sets Tom apart isn’t just his technical knowledge as a PGA Professional—it’s his understanding that great golf instruction must be accessible, fun, and meaningful. His coaching philosophy is refreshingly simple: keep it understandable, make it enjoyable, and help kids interact rather than just listen.
“So much golf instruction is very complicated,” Tom explains. “I want them to understand it, because if they understand it, they’ll do it—not just because Coach Tom says to move their arms a certain way, but because it makes sense to them.”
This approach aligns perfectly with First Tee’s mission. Tom recognizes that the life skills we teach through golf—dealing with frustration, handling disappointment, bouncing back from setbacks—are exactly what make both golf and life easier to navigate.
Coach Tom works one-on-one with a participant, demonstrating the personalized attention that helps kids build confidence both on and off the course.
Real Impact, Real Stories
The true measure of Tom’s success isn’t found in swing mechanics or handicap improvements—though those certainly happen. It’s in the stories of transformation that parents share, seeing differences in their children’s behavior from week one to week nine, year after year.
One story particularly stands out: a young participant who was with First Tee for five years before taking a break from golf. When this student faced challenges in high school, including bullying, his mother’s first instinct was to bring him back to First Tee. She knew the organization and trusted what Tom and the team could provide.
“He had anger issues and couldn’t deal with a lot of stuff,” Tom recalls. “But when he was in a positive environment, he changed and got better. His mom realized that First Tee was a very good option for him to get back on track.”
This is the power of what we do—creating environments where young people feel safe to fail, excited to grow, and better equipped for whatever comes their way next.
A Vision for Southeast Wisconsin
Tom’s background—understanding what it’s like when opportunities aren’t readily available, working in diverse organizations across different locations and with various clientele—gives him a unique understanding of the communities we serve. He knows firsthand how important it is to create accessible pathways for young people, making organizations like First Tee even more crucial.
His goal is ambitious but achievable: to make First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin the region’s best option for junior golf, recognized for the quality of our coaches, the engagement of our participants, and our reputation both locally and within the First Tee national network.
Program Director Tom Gerke shares instruction with participants at the driving range, emphasizing his philosophy of making golf understandable and fun for young learners.
Building Character, One Swing at a Time
Tom’s journey from caddie to Program Director reflects the same character-building principles we teach our participants. He understands that golf is a metaphor for life—full of unexpected challenges where progress requires self-reliance and how you choose to respond defines who you are.
Under Tom’s leadership, our participants aren’t just learning golf; they’re discovering what’s inside themselves and strengthening it. They’re building the inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience that will serve them well beyond the golf course.
That’s what makes Tom Gerke more than just a golf instructor—he’s a mentor helping young people write their personal growth stories, one lesson at a time.
Ready to see what First Tee can do for your child? Learn more about our programs and how we’re building game changers throughout Southeast Wisconsin.
Since 1999, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation has contributed more than $25 million to First Tee, supporting youth development across the U.S. through the game of golf
PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. and ATLANTA, GA. (June 20, 2025) – First Tee today announced a landmark $10 million grant from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, which reaffirms PGA TOUR Superstore’s strong commitment to the youth development organization. The gift marks a milestone in the organizations’ ongoing relationship, which began more than 25 years ago with an investment in First Tee – Metro Atlanta. With the growing popularity of youth golf – 3.7 million juniors hit the links in 2024, according to the National Golf Foundation – this grant helps ensure that youth from all backgrounds have access to the sport and its inherent values.
Arthur M. Blank, owner and chairman of the Blank Family of Businesses and the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, joined First Tee as a National Trustee in 2011. Since then, support from Blank’s PGA TOUR Superstore and family foundation has helped fuel the growth of First Tee’s character-building programs across the country, which now reach more than 3 million youth annually on golf courses, schools and community centers. The new grant will help First Tee reach more youth across the U.S. and strengthen First Tee’s curriculum for teenage participants.
“Junior golf is the fastest-growing segment of the sport, and that’s no coincidence. It’s a testament to the power of First Tee, which has made the game more accessible and enjoyable for young people, helping them experience golf in new and fun ways,” said Arthur Blank, owner and chairman, Blank Family of Businesses. “The innovative and engaging experiences that First Tee provides help kids build self-confidence and inner strength, qualities that will serve them throughout their lives. We’re proud of our deep partnership with the First Tee and are committed to the purposeful impact sports can have in developing and supporting youth.”
“We are grateful to Mr. Blank and his family of businesses for their continued support of First Tee,” said Jay Monahan, PGA TOUR Commissioner and Chair of First Tee Board of Governors. “Arthur’s vision and commitment reflect a deep understanding that investing in First Tee is truly an investment in the future. Through this transformative gift, Arthur is helping open doors for young people nationwide – empowering them to grow as golfers and as people.”
The new grant extends programming established by a $9.5 million grant in 2020 and will support First Tee’s efforts to keep teens engaged with the organization, where they have access to safe spaces, educational opportunities and positive role models during a traditionally challenging time in adolescence. The grant will be deployed in several ways:
Chapter grants: First Tee Chapters in PGA TOUR Superstore markets will receive grants to support youth to develop life and golf skills. To date, grants have impacted 50 First Tee chapters across the country, a number that will grow as PGA TOUR Superstore’s footprint continues to expand.
Leadership Series: PGA TOUR Superstore general managers across the country lead a five-week, in-store leadership series in partnership with First Tee designed to help teens uncover their strengths and personal values and explore potential career opportunities. The program was offered at 44 PGA TOUR Superstore locations in 2024 and plans to expand to 70 by 2029.
Leadership Summit: Each summer since 2021, Arthur Blank’s West Creek Ranch in Emigrant, Montana, has welcomed 40 First Tee teens for an unforgettable experience where they grow as leaders by taking on new challenges – like whitewater rafting, ropes courses and horseback riding – and learn about the power of building authentic relationships.
“This incredible partnership with the Blank Family of Businesses reflects our shared commitment to using golf as a vehicle for positive youth development,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of First Tee. “We are grateful to Arthur Blank, who has been a longtime, committed supporter of First Tee. This transformative investment will allow us to introduce more youth to golf, keep them engaged with First Tee and teach them essential life skills like leadership and teamwork.”
This week the Blank Family of Businesses welcomed 48 First Tee teens from across the country to Atlanta where they learned about what it takes to lead a successful organization. The weeklong program included visits to PGA TOUR Superstore headquarters, the Atlanta United training ground, the Atlanta Falcons practice facility and the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, where the new grant will be officially celebrated this afternoon with a check presentation and remarks from the foundation’s president, Fay Twersky, and managing director, Youth Development, Daniel Shoy, Jr., PGA TOUR Superstore’s vice president, Partnerships & Community Relations Ralph Stokes and First Tee’s senior director, Philanthropy Amanda Zedrick.
First Tee’s evidence-based program combines golf instruction with a life skills curriculum, reaching youth ages 7-18 at golf courses, schools and community centers across the globe. The organization impacts more than 3 million young people annually.
The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation has contributed more than $25 million to First Tee to date. In 2022, First Tee presented Arthur Blank with its Founders Award, for his generous support of the organization.
Focused and confident — a great swing in action at Youth Golf Mentoring Day!
MILWAUKEE (June 7, 2025) – On a beautiful afternoon at Noyes Park Golf Course, young people from across Milwaukee gathered not just to play golf—but to connect, learn, and grow through mentorship.
Youth Golf Mentoring Day was a collaborative event powered by First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin, MENTOR Greater Milwaukee, WeBLACKWeGOLF, MKE Fellows, and PEARLS for Teen Girls with the shared goal of using golf as a bridge to character development, confidence-building, and meaningful relationships.
Throughout the day, young participants rotated through golf instruction stations led by experienced coaches and volunteers, many of whom shared their own stories of mentorship and growth. Whether it was a first swing or a putt to win “Putt Tac Toe,” every moment was an opportunity to build confidence and spark connection.
We were honored to welcome Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, who joined us on the course and spoke to the power of mentorship in shaping the next generation of leaders. His presence underscored the strength of partnership between Milwaukee County Parks and local organizations committed to youth development. With great public courses like Noyes Park, our county offers accessible spaces where mentorship and learning can thrive. Events like this show what’s possible when golf, government, and community come together to invest in our youth.
Special thanks to County Executive David Crowley for inspiring words and support of our mission.
This day on the course was a reminder that golf is more than a game—it’s a powerful tool for empowerment. We saw firsthand how mentorship, combined with the life skills taught through golf, can open doors and build strong foundations for the future.
Thank you to every mentor, partner, and young person who helped make this day one to remember. We’re excited to continue building community, confidence, and character—on and off the course.
Smiles, mentorship, and community — that’s what Youth Golf Mentoring Day is all about.
Do you want to mentor the next generation? Join us and make a lasting impact through golf.
Representing 22 unique First Tee Chapters, this year’s Scholar class includes 6 first-generation college students and 5 collegiate golfers.
Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. (June 6, 2025) – The First Tee College Scholarship Program welcomes 27 recent high school graduates. Each of these Scholars was selected from a competitive national pool of First Tee teens and completed a rigorous application and interview process. In its sixth year, the program now boasts 121 current or former members, including 21 college graduates.
The 16 young women and 11 young men in this new Scholar class demonstrate a commitment to excellence both on and off the golf course, with the class averaging nearly 10 years in First Tee and an SAT score of 1450.
“I want to congratulate these 27 remarkable First Tee participants and welcome them to the First Tee College Scholarship Program,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “We are grateful to the donors and mentors who make this life-changing program possible. Since it launched in 2020, it has been rewarding to see our Scholars further develop in their respective fields and grow as students, golfers and people.”
The First Tee College Scholarship Program takes a multifaceted approach to supporting alumni after high school graduation. In addition to providing financial support, each Scholar is paired with a trained adult mentor to help guide them through higher education and beyond. Each of the new Scholars will also attend a pre-college retreat at First Tee Headquarters in July to meet their fellow class as well as an annual professional development conference in the winter that all active First Tee Scholars attend. Each Scholar also receives assistance with summer internship and employment placement after graduation.
Participants across the First Tee 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.
A community united through golf. Participants, coaches, and mentors came together at Brown Deer Park Golf Course for a day of learning, growth, and unforgettable memories. [Courtesy of Bank of America/Lindsay Stayton Photography]
What happens when you combine over 50 eager young golfers, professional instruction, and a Green Bay Packers legend? Pure magic at Brown Deer Park Golf Course.
The Bank of America Golf With Us Clinic in partnership with Youth on Course created an incredible learning environment where kids ages 8-12 from the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, Youth on Course, and First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin came together for an unforgettable experience that perfectly embodied our mission of building character through golf.
Learning from the Best
Under the expert guidance of Brown Deer Park Golf Course Head Golf Professional Scott Walecki and his assistant professionals, participants received hands-on instruction that focused on both golf fundamentals and life skills. The evening struck the perfect balance between technical learning and pure fun, creating an environment where kids felt excited to grow and safe to fail.
A Special Guest with Heart
Former Green Bay Packers kicker Mason Crosby brought his championship spirit to the clinic, spending time with each participant and sharing valuable life lessons alongside golf tips. His genuine enthusiasm for the event was evident as he reflected on the experience:
“Just seeing these kids, some of them who have never really even picked up a golf club, and when they hit one in the air or even just get it going forward, the excitement in their eyes reflects the joy this can be,” Crosby shared. “The camaraderie felt like a team atmosphere. Everybody was encouraging each other, trying to be a part of something bigger than just themselves. It was a special event. It was awesome to be a part of it.”
When asked what message he wanted to leave with the kids, Crosby offered wisdom that extends far beyond golf: “You’re going to miss putts. You’re going to have mistakes in life. Things are going to happen, but just don’t let those moments keep you from that next awesome opportunity. Don’t let your misses keep you from your makes.”
Focused and engaged — participants look on as they sink a putt. Moments like these showcase the teamwork and support that make the game so powerful. [Courtesy of Bank of America/Lindsay Stayton Photography]
Partnership with Purpose
In 2025, Bank of America launched Golf With Us in partnership with Youth on Course to help make golf more accessible. The Bank of America Golf With Us clinics encourage youth to find out what’s possible in golf and in life – learning important golf skills and life skills from top golf and celebrity talent. “Wisconsin is a key expansion market for Bank of America and we are thrilled to host one of our exclusive clinics here in Milwaukee,” said Drew Slocum, President, Bank of America Wisconsin. “By working with Youth on Course and First Tee to help make golf more accessible, we’re helping grow the sport while also making a positive impact in our community.”
Growing the Game Nationwide
As part of the partnership, Bank of America is funding course expansion, free Youth on Course memberships for kids around the nation, and instructional clinics in select markets to expose the next generation to the game of golf. Participants also receive a free one-year membership to Youth on Course via Golf With Us, allowing continued access to play golf for $5 or less at thousands of courses nationwide. So far more than 75,000 youth have signed up for a free Youth on Course membership provided by Bank of America.
More Than Golf
True to First Tee’s approach, the clinic focused on the deeper side of golf rather than just technical skills. Participants experienced active learning that builds inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience – qualities they’ll carry with them far beyond the clinic. Each participant also received a complimentary golf kit to continue their journey with the game. The evening concluded with dinner, allowing kids to connect with new friends and reflect on their experiences.
Green Bay Packers legend Mason Crosby took time to coach, encourage, and inspire. [Courtesy of Bank of America/Lindsay Stayton Photography]
Building Tomorrow’s Game Changers
Events like this remind us why our work matters. In a world where kids face increasing pressures and challenges, we create spaces where they can discover what’s inside of them, strengthen it, and put it into action. Every swing, every encouraging word, and every moment of joy during the clinic contributes to building the strength of character that will empower these young people through a lifetime of new challenges.
The smiles, laughter, and determined faces captured throughout the evening tell the real story – we’re not just building better golfers, we’re building game changers.
Natalie Cao is a collegiate golfer, First Tee Scholar and soon-to-be graduate from the University of Pennsylvania.
While she loved golf from three years old, she struggled with the independent nature of the sport until her parents enrolled her in First Tee when she was in fifth grade. Upon joining First Tee, she realized golf could be something more than just a competitive sport and was immediately drawn to the life skills curriculum. She quickly integrated herself into the community at First Tee – Greater Houston and began junior coaching while she was in middle school.
As a successful junior golfer, her eyes continued to be set on the future and finding where she could best pursue her goals as a golfer as well as her hopes of becoming a financial advisor. Soon she found the best of both worlds: the University of Pennsylvania, where she could play on the golf team as well as pursue a degree in economics.
Around this same time, Natalie applied and was accepted to the First Tee Scholarship Program. Throughout her time in the program, she was able to meet a network of hundreds of people across the country including other First Tee Scholars, First Tee leadership and her mentor, Valerie Wong Fountain.
The First Tee Scholarship Program assigns each member with a designated mentor during their freshman year to help them navigate their time in college and beyond. Natalie’s mentor, Valerie, is a Managing Director at Morgan Stanley in the Firm’s New York City office. Like Natalie, Valerie also played collegiate golf at the University of Pennsylvania, and she is involved with First Tee as a board member of First Tee – Metropolitan New York. The relationship between the two quickly flourished after they met in person for the first time to play golf while Natalie was visiting New York City over the summer after her freshman year.
Natalie and Valerie engaged on topics ranging from career advice to leadership to negotiating offers. In addition, Valerie opened doors to opportunities at Morgan Stanley and provided additional networking experiences in the asset management industry. Throughout her time at the University of Pennsylvania, Natalie flourished academically and athletically. She completed two internships with Morgan Stanley as part of the Firm’s Early Insights program and competed with the UPenn women’s golf team contending for its first Women’s Ivy Championship in more than a decade. Each time she competed in the Ivy Championships, Valerie attended to cheer her on.
As her time in college comes to a close, Natalie hasn’t stopped looking towards the future. After her graduation at the end of May, she will move down to Miami to begin a two-year rotational program in commercial mortgage-backed securities with Rialto Capital, an investment management group. Although her time as a First Tee Scholar officially ends when she graduates college, she has already been in touch with First Tee – Miami to coach and mentor the next generation of First Tee participants.
Want to learn more about the First Tee College Scholarship Program and how you can get involved? Visit here.
The renowned CBS Sports voice will help further First Tee’s mission ofempowering youth through golf
PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL (May 23, 2025) – First Tee, a youth development organization that enables kids to build character through the game of golf, announced that acclaimed CBS Sports broadcaster Jim Nantz will serve as its new Honorary Chair. The news comes as the youth development organization celebrates First Tee Week nationwide, a campaign to recognize coaches and their impact on participants and their communities.
Nantz, whose distinguished broadcasting career spans more than four decades, becomes the third Honorary Chair in First Tee’s history, following President George W. Bush (2011-2024) and President George H.W. Bush (1997-2010). As Honorary Chair, Nantz will help promote First Tee’s purpose and expand its reach to empower even more young people.
“Throughout my career, I have witnessed firsthand how golf builds character, resilience and integrity – the very qualities First Tee instills in young people,” said Jim Nantz. “I am honored to serve as Honorary Chair and support an organization that uses this remarkable game to help kids develop the strength of character they will carry with them throughout their lives.”
President George W. Bush expressed confidence in his successor: “For the past 13 years, it has been my privilege to support First Tee’s mission to develop young people of character. Jim Nantz brings passion, integrity and a deep love for golf to this role. His voice has narrated historic moments in the sport, and now that same voice will help inspire a new generation. My father would be proud that our friend is following in our footsteps, and I look forward to seeing First Tee’s continued impact under Jim’s leadership.”
Jay Monahan, PGA TOUR Commissioner and Chair of First Tee Board of Governors, added: “For 40 years Jim Nantz has provided the soundtrack for the game of golf, captivating fans at home as he illustrates the drama of winning on the PGA TOUR. As much as Jim’s voice is synonymous with the biggest moments in golf, his true legacy will be the countless fans he has introduced to our sport through his love for the game and respect for its values. It’s these attributes that make him the ideal Honorary Chair for First Tee.”
Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO, also welcomed Nantz to this significant role: “Jim Nantz is not only one of golf’s most recognizable voices – he is someone who truly embodies the values we teach. His passion for the game, commitment to excellence and inspiring presence make him the perfect Honorary Chair to help us continue building game changers across the country.”
As Honorary Chair, Nantz will help raise awareness of First Tee’s impact, support fundraising initiatives, and champion the organization’s mission to empower kids through a lifetime of new challenges, both on and off the course.
First Tee’s network of 150 chapters engages more than 5,000 active, trained coaches who deliver a curriculum designed with input from youth development experts using golf as the platform. First Tee serves more than 3.1 million kids annually.
