In the spring of ’24, Maya wrapped up her 9th and final year as a First Tee participant, graduating from Forest Hills Central and winning all-conference honors on the golf team multiple times. In her final three years at First Tee, Maya also participated in First Tee’s Junior Coach Program, learning leadership skills and teaching the next generation of First Tee students, alongside high schooler Lyla Chrisman (story below), who highlighted Maya as an inspiration for her. Maya also gave back by participating for five years in First Tee’s Golf Marathon Fundraiser, raising thousands of dollars for our participants on scholarship. Now, Maya is a freshman playing Division 2 golf at UNC – Pembroke.
Maya, with her family on signing day in 2023
Maya began the program as shy and soft-spoken, but two mentors helped shape her into a confident, goal-setting adult.
Maya, right, with two other First Tee participants (Fern B. and Grace P.) in 2017
“My first mentor was Coach Andre. He really helped build my confidence as well as help me discover my love for the game of golf. My most impactful mentor was Coach Taylor, as I worked with her through my younger years in the program. She helped me see I was capable of anything I wanted. As a girl, she told me I could be as successful as the boys around me.”
“Coach Taylor helped my confidence grow and my doubts settle.
Through her, I could see my potential and she encouraged me to keep going until I reached the goals I had set for myself.
I got to see how strong and capable I was.”
First Tee youngsters saw firsthand how capable Maya was as she junior coached. As a 16-year-old Maya applied and was selected for First Tee Game Changers Academy, spending a week in Philadelphia with 80 of her peers throughout the network. The year following, Maya applied and was selected for First Tee’s Participant Advisory Council, just one of eight students selected for the honor. She spent a week with peers from other chapters in Jacksonville, FL, helping to make First Tee an even more impactful program.
Maya in Philadelphia at the First Tee Game Changers Academy as a 16-year-old.
Maya at First Tee Participant Advisory Council in Jacksonville, FL as a 17-year-old
“With the help of First Tee, I’m now living out my dream, playing D2 collegiate golf. I plan to major in psychology so that one day I can become a sports psychologist.
Mentors matter for me, and with your support, it can matter for the 8-year-olds coming to First Tee this spring and summer.”
Help First Tee impact more students like Maya by pledging to one of our Golf Marathoners! With your help, we can employ 50+ teenagers like Maya in 2025 as they shape the next generation of students.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI, – March 6, 2025 – First Tee – West Michigan, a youth development non-profit organization that teaches character development through the game of golf, has promoted Tyler Smies from Executive Director to Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Smies has served 14 years as the Executive Director of First Tee – West Michigan and helped launch the organization in 2011. First Tee served 73 participants in Grand Rapids in its first year and had an annual operating budget of $50,000. Now, First Tee – West Michigan serves 2,400 participants across seven counties, and operates a $1.3 million budget, expanding its service area several times in the past decade.
“The positive impact The First Tee of West Michigan has had on the lives of students and growth of our organization can be traced back to Tyler’s leadership and passion,” said Travis Mikulenas, First Tee – West Michigan board chair. “This promotion reflects his growth and increased responsibility as the head of a leading West Michigan nonprofit serving thousands of students all across West Michigan each year.”
AS CEO, Smies will oversee strategic planning, operational management, fundraising efforts, and strategic partnerships, focusing on driving long-term sustainable relationships with participants, volunteers, donors, and staff.
“I am honored to step into this title and grow the incredible work of First Tee’s team and volunteers,” said Smies. “Together, we will continue to make a lasting impact on the kids and teens we serve in West Michigan.”
During his tenure, Smies has been nominated for various awards with the Young Non-Profits Professional Network (YNPN) and was awarded MiBiz’s “Best Managed Small Nonprofits” in 2017. First Tee – West Michigan is consistently ranked as one of the top-performing First Tee chapters across the globe.
About First Tee West Michigan:
First Tee – West Michigan was established in 2011 to impact young people’s lives by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through golf. First Tee—West Michigan serves 2,400 students annually in Allegan, Kalamazoo, Kent, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, and Ottawa Counties. For more information about First Tee and its mission to enable kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges, visit firstteewestmichigan.org.
Written by Tyler Smies, Executive Director of First Tee, 2011 – Present
Rick was one of the finest men I’ve ever had the chance to meet, and did so much to help both me and First Tee grow and thrive. Rick joined First Tee’s board in 2016 and served until the end of 2024. He served as Board Chair for three years, from 2021 – 2023.
I so deeply respect Rick and how he led and took care of people. No task was too small for Rick – he volunteered at a six-class session as recently as last spring, taking on 10 3rd and 4th graders from a GRPS school. At the same time, he led First Tee as board chair with care, kindness, directness, and steadiness. His faith in Christ was also rock solid and important to him. I have no doubt where he is today – in the embrace of his savior, Jesus.
I looked up to him in so many ways – how he led his family, walked out his faith, did his work, led me, and led the First Tee. Here are some highlights during his tenure on the board at First Tee:
From when Rick joined in 2016 to the end of 2024:
First Tee – West Michigan annual participation went from 726 to 2,400 students
went from 934 to 2,222 during his three years as chair
First Tee expanded our program from 2 communities (GR and Muskegon) to 4 (Holland and Kalamazoo)
First Tee’s budget went from $556,000 to $1,450,000
went from $809,000 to $1,125,000 during his three years as chair.
First Tee launched flagship programs like the junior coach program, the Play 9 program, and the individual instruction program during his tenure on the board. He also helped us navigate the transition of our home from the Highlands to Stormy Creek and Stormy Creek to our downtown location at United Way.
Rick also helped implement a more refined and defined way to evaluate me as Executive Director. That process has continued to today and now filters down to the goals and initiatives of every staff member each year.
All of these accomplishments we’ve had as a collective group had a large part to do with Rick – who he was and how he led. I am so grateful to have spent so much time with him, picking his brain, asking him questions, and leaning on his wisdom. Our heart goes out to Rick’s wife Mary, his two sons and their families, and others close to him. For more information, click here for Rick’s obituary.
Tyler Smies, Executive Director
To make a gift in memory of Rick and his impact on First Tee, click here.
First Tee – West Michigan welcomes Randy Freeburg and Henry Stallings III to its Board of Directors. These individuals bring a wealth of experience in the business and education fields that will immediately contribute to First Tee’s mission to enable kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges.
Randy Freeburg
Freeburg is a retired real estate appraiser and previously worked with Foremost Insurance Group as a financial and economic analyst. He is an avid golfer and bowler and helped organize the PGA Tour Champions stop while a member of the Grand Rapids Jaycees Foundation. He has also served on several capital campaigns for local non-profits, including the Women’s Resource Center and the West Michigan Sports Commission. Freeburg is a member of Blythefield Country Club while also serving First Tee as a volunteer mentor and a Golf Outing Task Force committee member. In addition, he has participated for the past two years as a Golf Marathon fundraiser for the organization.
Henry Stallings III
Stallings is a 3rd grade teacher at Grandville Public Schools. He has served as an Executive Board member of Grandville Education Association and is currently serving on the Michigan Education Association PAC Council as a board member. Both his parents were teachers in Grand Rapids before Stallings also entered the profession. He is an active parent of a First Tee teenager and is currently a Lead Coach and Caddiemaster at First Tee – West Michigan, while also serving on the Recruiting & Nominating Committee.
“Randy and Henry are driven by First Tee’s mission to impact kids and teens through golf and have been an integral part of our impact the past several years,” said Tyler Smies, First Tee – West Michigan Executive Director. Having their professional expertise and their passion for our kids and teens in the boardroom for the next three years will help us have an even bigger influence in West Michigan.”
Freeburg and Stallings join Russ Hines, Jason Manshum, Travis Mikulenas, Maureen Fitzgerald Penn, Ross Ryzenga, Scott VanderLinde, Antoinetta Freeman, Nate Golomb, John Kruis, and Randy Lindquist on the First Tee – West Michigan Board of Directors.
Elias Aouad | 26 years old | First Tee Alum | Bethany Christian Services
Winter at First Tee Yields Immediate and Future Fruit for Aouad
Elias was our very first participant in 2012 at Homework & Hitting, our winter tutoring and swing training program. Hear from Elias how Homework & Hitting made an impact on his game, his school, and now his career:
First Tee alumni Elias Aoaud on the impact of Homework & Hitting
After one six-class session at First Tee in the fall of 2011 in Grand Rapids, Elias was hooked on golf. He wanted to play high school golf the following spring. So Executive Director Tyler Smies bought a hitting net and began working with Elias in the basement of the Elks Lodge at the Highlands. The following spring, Elias made the high school golf team, and thanks to golf training and academic assistance Elias received, Homework & Hitting was born.
Elias at Homework & Hitting in 2013 at The Highlands Golf Course
More than 10 years later, Homework & Hitting is going strong in Grand Rapids, Muskegon, Holland, and Kalamazoo. More than 200 participants will receive tutoring and swing-training help at 20 area locations in West Michigan this winter. But it all started with Elias.
Elias shared, “It’s hard to believe that it’s been 12 years since Homework & Hitting started. I remember when the idea of it was first brought up. To say I was excited was an understatement. The program allowed for year-round coaching and allowed me to learn about the game as well as keep up with my studies.
“Help with schoolwork was especially important for me – having dedicated study time where I could focus on my school work and get help if I was stuck. “
Keeping good grades meant I was able to continue playing for my high school team and with help from Homework & Hitting, it allowed me to do just that.”
Elias, with golf legend Jack Nicklaus in 2013
Now a Network Administrator for Bethany Christian Services, Elias was First Tee’s first graduate in 2015 and went on to get his bachelor’s at Davenport University. During his time at Davenport and years after, he’d come back to volunteer at Homework & Hitting.
“I knew that once I was no longer a student with First Tee, I wanted to give back in some way. Shortly after my graduation, I asked about volunteering at Homework & Hitting.
“Coming back to First Tee as a volunteer after graduating and being able to help those who were in my shoes was beyond gratifying.“
Helping students learn more about the game of golf, correcting swings, and teaching them that golf is a fun sport.
“First Tee opened doors for me professionally, too. I was able to secure my first job in my career through the connections I made with other volunteers after I graduated.”
“I have nothing but gratitude for First Tee as they helped shape me into the adult and golfer I am today.” – Elias Aouad, 2015 graduate
The Next Generation is here
Finally, Claudia is at the beginning of her journey and just wrapped up Homework & Hitting for the first time this winter. On her first day of class, Claudia immediately grabbed a putter and told Coach Brian she wanted to become the best putter in the class. At just seven years old, Claudia already outperformed the older boys in the class on the putting course. In addition to her Homework & Hitting sessions with Coach Brian, she’s also receiving discounted lessons from the PGA Professional, Kosta Ramirez through First Tee. First Tee will be with her as she learns and grows through the game of golf.
Your support helps the next generation of kids like Elias become better versions of themselves on and off the course. Give today and support deeper level impact like Homework & Hitting.
Lindsay began at First Tee at the age of 13 in 2013. From the outset, she was dedicated to improving and had aspirations of playing college golf. With Lindsay so dedicated to her game and First Tee, she got a multitude of opportunities to learn and grow through the program.
Lindsay, age 14, with LPGA star Paula Creamer in 2014
Lindsay applied and was selected to participate in Life Skills and Leadership Academy and the First Tee Champions Challenge, traveling free of charge to Philadelphia, PA and Naples, FL when she was 16 and 17 years old. She also got to caddie for a round with LPGA winner Megan Khang at the Meijer LPGA Classic upon graduating high school and met Paula Creamer as she just started in First Tee.
Lindsay, age 18, preparing to caddie for LPGA winner Megan Khang
Lindsay, at age 16 alongside First Tee grad Robert Butler meeting Masters Champion Larry Mize on her all-expense paid trip to Naples, FL in the First Tee Champions Challenge.
Even with all these experiences playing and learning through golf herself, Lindsay knew she wanted to try her hand at coaching. So, in 2017, Lindsay started as one of our first four junior coaches – a paid position for teenagers in the program, built to develop leadership and organization habits. During that time, she fell in love with teaching kids.
“The junior coach program helped me realize I wanted to be a teacher. Being on the course also allowed me to practice teaching and learn the qualities of being a great teacher and a mentor to the younger participants.”
What Lindsay helped start is now a fundamental development and leadership program of the chapter. This summer, more than 25 teenagers who grew up in First Tee were junior coaches, assisting or leading 1-5 classes per week, depending on their availability and interest. This year, more than $50,000 in payroll was paid out to current First Tee students or Alumni in the form of coaching or job training experience in fields like marketing, event planning, fundraising, and accounting. In addition, The Phil DeBoer Memorial Scholarship helped pay an additional $13,000 in college scholarships to nine First Tee – West Michigan grads this year alone. Lindsay was multiple-time winner of the scholarship, being awarded in 2020 and 2021.
Upon high school graduation, Lindsay headed to Aquinas College, playing golf there but knowing that through her experience as a junior coach at First Tee, she wanted to become an educator. Each summer in college, Lindsay would return to work at First Tee, now leading the class with other adult mentors and younger junior coaches assisting her. Each of the past three summers, Lindsay has led our LPGA*USGA Girls Golf classes at Kaufman GC, all while gaining experience and schooling in how to become a teacher. In addition, she helped Cascade Hills CC Junior Golf Program after personally receiving instruction from their top-ranked instructor, Brandon Roby, PGA.
This fall, after graduating from Aquinas, Lindsay began as a kindergarten teacher for the first time at Holy Trinity Catholic School in Comstock Park. Her classroom was set up with one of her best friends from First Tee by her side, and many First Tee donors and volunteers pitching in for supplies.
“The junior coach program has shaped me into the teacher I am today. I wouldn’t be the same without the experience I had coaching for First Tee.”
Now, you can help support our next generation of junior coaches. Graduates like Lindsay are Game Changers right here in West Michigan – your gift helps First Tee cultivate our next generation of leaders!
Andrew DeYoung | 25 years old | First Tee Alum – Ferris State University | PGA Professional at Deal CC in New Jersey & Division 1 Head Golf Coach at Monmouth University
From Supported to Serving Others – a 10-year cycle of transformation for DeYoung
Andrew participated in our chapter’s first and second national opportunities, applying to a nationwide panel of First Tee interviewees and being selected for trips to Naples, FL (First Tee Champions Challenge) and Washington D.C. (Perfect Sense Unified Challenge) to complete and learn together with students from other First Tee chapters around the country. Hear how his trip to Washington D.C. made an impact on his life!
Andrew joined First Tee at age 13 in 2011, attending the organization’s inaugural open-to-the-public class. Displaying a natural talent for golf, Andrew, who learned the game from his late father, became a valued member of the First Tee family. His mother, Kathi, enrolled him at The Highlands Golf Course, marking the beginning of Andrew’s journey.
Andrew, age 13, in his early days at First Tee
While at Kenowa High School, Andrew played golf for four years and consistently advanced through First Tee’s program levels. Despite occasional challenges in staying focused and making decisions affecting his academics and golf, Andrew’s potential shone through. His game also benefited from receiving free lessons from former Cascade Hills CC Director of Instruction and state-ranked instructor Brandon Roby, PGA.
Encouraged by First Tee Executive Director Tyler Smies, Andrew applied for a national opportunity to visit Washington D.C. Selected for the experience, he spent a week at Congressional Country Club, playing with PGA Tour Professional Tommy “Two Gloves” Gainey and meeting Jordan Spieth. This transformative trip ignited a newfound focus for Andrew to mentor younger students.
Andrew with PGA Tour star Jordan Spieth in 2014 at the First Tee National Opportunity in Washington D.C.
“He came back different. It’s like a light bulb switched for him,” Executive Director Tyler Smies said. “After that trip to D.C., he was extremely focused on helping younger students and giving back. And he never looked back.”
Post-trip and upon high school graduation, Andrew pursued a degree in Professional Golf Management at Ferris State University.
Andrew passing his Playing Ability Test as a Freshman at Ferris State University, to become a PGA Professional
Graduating in 2021, he returned to Deal Golf and Country Club in New Jersey as an Assistant Golf Professional, after interning there while at Ferris. Now Andrew runs the club’s junior golf program, and his dedication there led to his hiring as Head Coach of Monmouth University’s Division 1 Golf program at the age of 25 in the fall of 2024.
Andrew DeYoung, far right, Head Coach of D1 Monmouth University Golf Team this fall
“To see Andrew grow so much through First Tee – West Michigan, and then to have such an immense and immediate impact on kids and young men in his career – it’s tremendous. His journey went full circle – from being the teenager who needed someone in his life, to becoming that someone for other kids and young men,” Smies said.
Since Andrew’s trip, more than twenty First Tee students have embarked on national opportunities, broadening their horizons through golf, leadership, and travel experiences.
To ensure future students benefit from life-changing opportunities like Andrew’s, your support is crucial. Please consider supporting First Tee – West Michigan – 90% of our expenses are covered by donors like you!
Meet Angelo Luciani, aka JelloShot. Of course, there is a story behind the name. At a young age, Angelo developed a passion for sports. When he was seven, Angelo became a crucial player on a travel club soccer team. The quickness of the game didn’t allow for a three-syllable name, so Angelo was shortened by his teammates to Jello. His accurate shots were dubbed JelloShot, a moniker that endured. However, his love for soccer eventually gave way to a newfound passion for golf.
Angelo was first introduced to golf with First Tee – West Michigan when he was just eight years old. While learning the game of golf, Angelo also learned life skills that build inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience. First Tee was instrumental in shaping who he was becoming as a young man and as a competitive golfer. Angelo grew from being a program participant to representing the First Tee at several national competitions, including playing at Pebble Beach with a PGA Tour Champion, and twice in the First Tee National Championship (hosted at Notre Dame and Clemson). He also is the first student from the chapter to qualify for the USGA Junior Amateur Championship, hosted in North Carolina that year.
Participating in multiple golf tournaments each year, most of his fellow competitors knew him as Jello. He was easy to spot on the golf course – the guy with a big smile and a well-coordinated wardrobe. Drawing inspiration from his passion for looking his best on the golf course, JelloShotGolf emerged last spring as a brand dedicated to reminding you to bring your best self to every shot. With a dozen products available and more in the pipeline, the JelloShotsGolf brand continues to grow and evolve through the help of where he is now – at Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ.
This is only the beginning of the story. As a student at Grand Canyon University, Angelo is pursuing a degree in Entrepreneurial Business, practicing what he learns and funding his education. We are so proud of Angelo and can’t wait to see what’s next for his brand!
While the JelloShotsGolf brand is growing, and his business acumen expanding, Angelo continues to develop and grow his golf game at a high level. Grand Canyon University has a strong Division 1 Golf team (ranked higher than several Big 10 schools), so Angelo making the team as a freshman was an uphill battle. However, he quickly established himself on the club team this fall as a frehsman, where he was one of the strongest performers. Mid-year, Angelo won his first-ever college tournament, firing a 68-69 to win.
After this victory, Angelo’s year culminated in Grand Canyon winning their first-ever Divison 1 Club Championship!
What a start to Angelo’s college career! As he continues in his golf and entrepreneurial pursuits, we’ll be rooting him on in West Michigan! Keep it up, Angelo!
For more information on volunteering at First Tee and impacting other students like Angelo, click below:
First Tee – West Michigan has been selected to receive $2,500 from the United States Golf Association through its IDEA Grant. This significant gift plays a pivotal role in advancing First Tee West Michigan’s programs, including growing its individual instruction initiative. This program provides young individuals with PGA-level lessons at a significantly reduced cost to their families.
In the spring of 2021, First Tee – West Michigan launched a new initiative that would break a significant financial barrier for families that want to provide their young golfer with individual PGA instruction. Starting with one instructor, First Tee – West Michigan began offering individual lessons to scholarship students within its programs for just $15. Since that first year, the program has grown and now offers lessons with five different certified instructors across all four communities First Tee – West Michigan serves (Grand Rapids, Muskegon, Holland, and Kalamazoo). More than 280 subsidized lessons have been given to scholarship students, with more each week. Thanks to the USGA’s IDEA Grant, First Tee can continue to provide PGA-level instruction at a low cost while adding more instructors to fit the needs of its students, no matter their circumstances.
“This next-level partnership with local PGA Professionals is giving our kids what they need to thrive, learn, and grow through the game of golf,” Executive Director Tyler Smies said. “Now, our kids and teens who want to get better and play in high school or college can do so without worrying about the cost. The instruction is increasing our kids and teens engagement with First Tee and our life skills curriculum and with the game of golf in general. We’re so grateful to the USGA for their partnership in making the game even more impactful on our kids and teens.”
About First Tee – West Michigan
The USGA IDEA Grant program was established in 2021, building off the strength of more than 20 years of partnership between First Tee and the USGA. Since its inception, 72 grants have been distributed to 46 chapters across 30 states including First Tee – West Michigan, helping connect more diverse young people to the game and First Tee’s character-empowering programs. First Tee – West Michigan has been the recipient of this grant each of the past three years for their cutting edge initiatives to increase representation amongst kids from all backgrounds.
Reason #3: Bradley Lardie accomplishes wire-to-wire finish at First Tee – West Michigan
This season, your donation to First Tee goes further, thanks to a generous matching grant from Charles Schwab. Please give before year-end to ensure First Tee – West Michigan can fully take advantage of this $32,500 match! Help us raise $60,000 this December!
When First Tee – West Michigan launched in the fall of 2011, there was just one coach (Tyler Smies), one course (The Highlands GC in northwest Grand Rapids), and a handful of volunteers. As the spring of 2012 rolled around, First Tee – West Michigan’s first full year of programming began. And it began with Bradley Lardie, age 7, and his older brother Caleb, age 9 in class.
From the first class, Bradley Lardie stood out amongst the participants. He was the youngest in the bunch – just barely old enough to participate. His mind worked differently than most seven-year-olds.
“The questions Bradley would ask,” Executive Director and coach Tyler Smies said. “They were so advanced, mechanical, and math driven. Things like “So the angle of the clubface changes distance?” or other specific questions like that. Most 7-year-olds just want to swing hard and have fun and play games, and truly don’t have a care in the world for mechanics or how the golf swing works. But not Bradley.”
“I just remember being the youngest in class, and really enjoying the ‘games approach’ to First Tee,” Bradley said, now looking back through coaching viewpoint. “I also remember Homework & Hitting, and how much fun and how much I learned just hanging out at First Tee throughout the winter.”
Bradley’s curiosity and perspective were different than many of his peers. He was also always focused on the task at hand. He zeroed in on learning all he could to get better, despite rarely being the best golfer in the class. He was and is a sponge for learning the intricacies of the game. Because of his focus and interest, he was invited to the 2nd ever Collegiate Alternate Shot event, where he was paired with another Brad (Smith), who played at Calvin College. 8 years later, he participated in his last one, next to GVSU’s Men’s player Charlie DeLong. The pictures below are of each event.
Bradley and his brother Caleb participated on scholarship side-by-side for four years before Bradley struck out on his own. As Bradley grew, and First Tee expanded, Bradley was able to consistently attend class with Coach and Executive Director Tyler Smies, participating in class at 5 different golf courses in Grand Rapids.
Bradley also was one of First Tee’s first junior coaches, working for First Tee and earning a paycheck at the age of 14, assisting lead coaches and learning the coaching side of First Tee’s work. Even before then, Bradley coached in the Griffins Youth Foundation, also becoming a coach for a blind hockey player all while he helped hundreds of students at First Tee.
“One morning, my mom woke me up and told me I was going to start helping and coaching with the Griffins Youth Foundation. I’m glad she did, because I found out really quickly that I really love coaching and working with kids. It’s fun to watch a kid have that ‘ah-ha’ moment and craft a lesson plan to make those moments happen.”
It quickly became clear that Bradley was more capable than most teenagers in leading class. By the age of 16, Bradley was leading class with twenty students and five adults at area courses like Cedar Chase, Indian Trails GC, Kaufman, Maple Hill, and the Mines GC, and Kaufman GC. The past two summers, Bradley has also worked administratively in the office. This summer, he focused specifically on personally connecting with other scholarship families, sharing what opportunities were coming up for their student, and answering questions. As a participant, he was well-informed and could speak to the value of First Tee in his life to other parents. This cold calling would scare off most teenagers, but Bradley dove in and excelled.
“It gave me such an appreciation for what I had growing up in First Tee,” said Lardie. “I called so many parents who were grateful I called to share about upcoming opportunities at First Tee. But also I gained new perspective on the challenges some of our First Tee families have. I have a different level of compassion than I had before because of that work. I used to think everyone thinks or has a similar situation to what I have. Now I have an ear for what others think and are feeling.”
Working on staff began to color Bradley’s thoughts on a future career.
“One of my teachers in high school heard about all the coaching I was doing, and asked if I wanted to help in a tutoring program at school, working with elementary school kids. And that experience, plus my coaching with First Tee and The Griffins Youth Foundation convinced that teaching is what I want to do as a career.”
As Bradley began to enter his final few years at First Tee, Program Director Taylour Boer and Tyler Smies were adamant that he get a National First Tee Opportunity. Bradley attended a leadership academy at age 14 put on by First Tee – Benton Harbor that was influential, but nothing since, as Bradley’s golf handicap was not low enough to apply. So Bradley was selected and went last winter to Naples, FL, along with another 10-year program veteran and Ace participant Adam Koval. They had a blast playing against students from across the country, and learning alongside Program Director Taylour Boer that trip. Bradley has also thrived also playing on the JV and Varsity golf team at Jenison. New initiatives in the past two years at First Tee and our year-end fundraising for new technology have been created for students like Bradley, so their golf game can improve at a more rapid pace. Bradley knows that would have made an impact on him.
“In my trip to Florida, my eyes were opened to how many good players there are,” Lardie said. “I thought I was really good, but now I know there’s whole different level of play, and I want to get there. Having a launch monitor and putting technology back when I was 10 or 11 years old, or access to someone like A PGA Professional like Coach Randy would have made a huge difference for me as a golfer.”
10 years after beginning at First Tee, Bradley is the first ever in First Tee-West Michigan’s history to complete the Ace Level. Bradley worked through the PLAYer, Par, Birdie, and Eagle levels before beginning his Ace level journey in the spring of 2022. Ace serves as a Capstone project at First Tee, and functions much like an independent study. Bradley submitted his Ace Level Projects for review (they are currently in Florida being considered). These projects focused on different areas of growth: golf, career, giving back, and exploring educational opportunities. While nine other students have started Ace, Bradley is the first to complete the level.
“Honestly, the feeling of finishing the Eagle level at First Tee was overwhelming for me. I’ll always remember that moment. I was spinning my tires at the Birdie level, and almost gave up. But I kept at it, so finishing that made me really want to finish Ace and be the first at our chapter to do it.” Lardie said. “I had some competition with another participant, Kylie, who was also trying to complete it, and we were staying up late some nights each trying to complete it first. Her catching up to me really pushed me to finish, and that’s what I needed to do this.”
As 2022 wraps up, please consider giving so more students like Bradley can participate at First Tee on scholarship. With your help, more students can participate on a scholarship rate, while also getting first-class instruction, and access to game-changing technology.
West Michigan receives national recognition in the First Tee Network for the strength of our winter tutoring and swing-training program, Homework & Hitting. But one of our Coach Building Blocks is “Continuous Improvement”. So we wondered: Could Homework & Hitting have a deeper impact and a wider reach?
First Tee’s winter Homework & Hitting program goes where students are – including 20 different locations this winter. We set up in gyms at schools, Boys & Girls Clubs, indoor Golf Facilities, and churches. Check out the interactive map below to see all the locations we’ll host Homework & Hitting this winter.
Click the map to interact with Homework & Hitting locations – 20 in all!
As golf increasingly goes digital, the importance of First Tee providing technology and visual support to students is critical. Set up and tear down at each Homework & Hitting site can be challenging, but with YOUR help, we can provide next-level technology to our participants and meet them where they are. Can you help support us at year-end, to ensure this portable technology can be added to Homework & Hitting?
PUTTR
Putting is the first golf skill we teach our students, but is tough to teach on gym floors and carpet. With Puttr, however, First Tee novices and experts can be entertained and challenged! We’re particularly fond of the PUTTR app, which comes with built-in games, including leaderboards where our students can compete against other First Tee students throughout the country! Check out this video on the capabilities of PUTTR.
PUTTR’s portability makes it a perfect fit for all our winter locations. Can you help us buy two for our various program locations, for $1,350 total? Your gift at year-end helps us purchase this, and reach our total year-end goal of $60,000 in December!
As students advance at First Tee, they seek for more swing feedback. A portable launch monitor (endorsed by Tiger Woods!) would make a huge impact. Students preparing for high-school golf need data and video feedback to improve their swing. Full Swing has partnered nationally with First Tee, and if it proves to be as impactful as we think, more launch monitors can be purchased at an even steeper discount. Can you help First Tee – West Michigan buy one Full-Swing Launch monitor for $4,000, and see the impact it can make with our students all throughout West Michigan?
With the PUTTR and Full Swing launch monitor, students like Darcey (Reason #1) can grow and learn at a younger age. More students engaged for more years yields bigger impacts (see report below). Help us ensure that each student, no matter what their socioeconomic background, can access technology to improve their game, and in turn, receive life-changing mentoring and training for years to come. Help us raise $60,000 this December so we can purchase this technology for our students this winter!
Reason #1: From First Tee 3rd Grader to College Freshman – Darcey Dorris
This season, your donation to First Tee goes further, thanks to a generous matching grant from Charles Schwab. Please give before year-end to ensure First Tee – West Michigan can fully take advantage of this $32,500 match! Help us raise $60,000 this December!
Darcey first began participating in First Tee in third grade. Her journey demonstrates how First Tee’s various programs and initiatives can collectively make an impact off the golf course.
Darcey first stepped off the bus at Stormy Creek GC in southeast Grand Rapids through a partnership with Bowen Elementary (a Kentwood Public School). Working with First Tee’s Program Director, she participated in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade at the introductory level of First Tee, being introduced to First Tee’s Nine Core Values and golf fundamentals like Target Awareness and Distance Control (see an article about Darcey’s experience back in 2014). When she began attending Crestwood Middle (also a Kentwood Public School) in 6th grade, First Tee added a partnership with that school as well.
As she entered high school, First Tee formed a partnership with a new local church, First African Methodist Episcopal Church. We were thrilled when we saw Darcey came through this newly formed partnership with her church.
3 different community partnerships helped Darcey learn and grow at First Tee, keeping her involved until she became a junior coach!
Golf was not the motivator for Darcey – she enjoyed First Tee because she was outdoors and spending time with her friends. In fact, she thrived in other athletics – as a discus and shot put thrower. But her maturity and positivity helped land her a paid junior coach role at First Tee at the tender age of 15. Once in the role, Darcey’s confidence and maturity exploded.
Darcey relished the opportunity to be a leader and junior coach, coaching younger participants and leading them through games and activities. She often created her own warm-ups and activities – they were so good, our full-time staff started stealing the ideas! By 11th grade, Darcey was leading classes of 15+ students and 3 adult volunteers. As she blossomed as a coach, Darcey’s interest in her own golf game was piqued. For the first time, as a senior in high school, Darcey tried out for her high school golf team.
Darcey, this summer, with her class at Indian Trails GC
Darcey played JV golf her senior year and had several conversations that year about her career and college aspirations with Tyler Smies, Executive Director. She was interested in pursuing a career in politics or as an attorney. Finally, she chose Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio, a HBCU school, where she received a scholarship to be a discus and shot put thrower.
Between her athletic and academic scholarships, Darcey’s tuition and room and board at Central State University were fully paid for!
Before heading to school this fall, Darcey worked at First Tee full-time through the end of July, leading class and working on administrative tasks in the office. She then headed to Central State University to join their track and field team, and is currently majoring in Psychology.
Darcey, leading a session in 2021 at Indian Trails
While Darcey’s experience demonstrated the value of partnerships and relationships, it also highlights an area of growth for First Tee – West Michigan. First Tee wants to offer a way to engage kids at a higher level through the game of golf. Darcey was never eligible for national week-long opportunities First Tee offers due to her inexperience in golf (and lack of a handicap). Her First Tee classmates These trips have been life-changing for dozens of First Tee participants. Unfortunately, students like Darcey did not have enough opportunity to work on her golf game while at First Tee.
In the past year, First Tee has implemented two major golf-focused initiatives geared toward scholarship students like Darcey – individual instruction, and the “Play 9” initiative. Both initiatives help future Darceys work on their golf game. Both have been very successful, including in 2022 more than 40+ discounted lessons with PGA Professionals and 150+ rounds to students on scholarship at First Tee. With these opportunities, we expect more students on scholarship to get great opportunities to travel across the country through First Tee HQ’s excellent travel and leadership opportunities.
Next Steps for First Tee’s Next Generation
As the world moves toward more technology and STEM based learning, First Tee wants to invest in tools that can improve skills while teaching important math and data skills. First Tee would like to buy the technology to help the next generation of Darceys improve their golf game alongside the valuable life skills First Tee offers.
The full cost of the technology First Tee needs for its winter programs is $5,200.
Below is an interview of Darcey as a 10th grader, and recent junior coach (published in 2019)
In Their Own Words:
Darcey’s Favorite Nine Core Value: Integrity. Since I started in First Tee I have learned more and more about the word integrity. Integrity simply means doing good when someone in authority isn’t around. I still think I have a bit of improvement to do but I feel like First Tee has helped me to understand the word more.
What is your favorite part of being a junior coach? I just love the overall experience. Getting to know kids and teaching them what I learned when I was their age. During my time as a junior coach, I have learned to be patient and to go with my gut on things. This experience has helped me prepare for the career I want in the future. I know my future career will require being a good communicator, being patient, and understanding. All of those traits and more encourage me to make coaching at First Tee fun!
Darcey at age 10, participating at First Tee through their partnership with Bowen Elementary School in Kentwood.
