Category: Blog

 First Tee recognizes 2025 Ace recipients 

Ace is First Tee’s rigorous capstone program, which helps teens gameplan for the future 

Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. – (Dec. 8, 2025) – First Tee is proud to announce that 14 participants have successfully completed the Ace program, the organization’s premier achievement, which guides young people in planning their futures through hands-on projects and real-world skill development. 

“Achieving Ace requires considerable time, dedication and self-reflection,” said Ryan Graff, vice president of programs at First Tee. “These teens have demonstrated an incredible commitment to personal growth, and we are proud of their achievements and excited to see where their futures take them.” 

The 2025 Ace achievers represent seven First Tee chapters across the country: 

  • Will Berthiaume, First Tee – Connecticut 
  • Abelina Wakeland, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast 
  • Annika Collado, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast 
  • Elise Rivas-Mucklow, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast* 
  • Jenna Misset, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast 
  • Colby Townsend, First Tee – Greater Charlotte 
  • Colin Watson, First Tee – Greater Dallas 
  • Daniel Ferguson, First Tee – Greater Dallas 
  • Jacob Lewallen, First Tee – Greater Dallas* 
  • Aarya Shewale, First Tee – Greater Houston* 
  • Arden Han-Wei, First Tee – Greater Sacramento* 
  • Hannah Stouder, First Tee – Greater Sacramento* 
  • Evan Santoso, First Tee – Silicon Valley 
  • Tristan Hipolito, First Tee – Silicon Valley* 

*Indicates Make Your Mark grant recipient

Through the Ace program, participants explore their interests and potential career paths, while creating actionable goals. To achieve Ace, participants must complete four comprehensive projects focusing on golf, education, career and community service. 

Based on their community service projects, participants can earn grants for their local chapters to expand their impact. In 2025, six Ace participants secured Make Your Mark grants totaling $41,000 for initiatives addressing critical needs in their communities. These grants allow Ace participants to leave a legacy at their chapter and inspire future participants to do the same. 

First Tee – Greater Sacramento received $10,000 in recognition of Hannah Stouder’s “Hannah’s Care Closet,” which provides free essential items to elementary school students in need. First Tee – Greater Houston received $10,000 in recognition of Aarya Shewale’s “Katy Chess Academy,” which helps kids develop life skills through chess instruction. 

For more information about the Ace program and how to get involved, visit firsttee.org/ace. 

Donor Spotlight: Larry & Lisa Pentiuk

Donor Spotlight: Larry & Lisa Pentiuk
Program of Support: First Tee’s Holland Expansion
Giving Mechanism: Qualified Charitable Distribution, IRA Account

Larry and Lisa’s impact as donors with First Tee started through a love of the game that started 90 years ago for Larry.

“I started my life as a caddie, aged 9, and was surrounded by people who were willing to mentor me. They not only taught me the proper way to play the game, but that through hard work, determination, integrity, it would frame my life to the man I became.“

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Through Larry’s love of the game, Larry and Lisa heard about First Tee at a country club near Holland. Jeff Keyser, First Tee’s Holland Area Director, was giving a presentation on the growing demand for First Tee’s programs in Holland, and the need to expand staff to ensure every kid, regardless of background and income, has access to opportunities through First Tee in the Holland community.

Through Lisa and Larry’s generous gift in 2024 (and continued support in 2025) through his Qualified Charitable Distribution, First Tee was able to hire Holland Area Program Coordinator Sarah Owens starting this past summer. Owens comes after a decorated golf career at Hope College, including captaining the team in her junior and senior year, and winning the MIAA Sportsmanship Award her Senior Year. She also interned the summer at First Tee between her junior and senior year.

Sarah Owens, new First Tee – West Michigan Holland Program Coordinator
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Hiring First Tee’s 2nd full-time staff member communities has led to massive growth each time in Grand Rapids, Muskegon, and Kalamazoo – more than 50% growth in a two-year period. That was a vision Larry and Lisa’s understood and wanted to support in a big way.

Larry and Lisa’s commitment is already seeing fruit. After just six months on the job, Sarah and First Tee are serving 9% more kids in Holland in 2025 than in 2024.

“Year over year, organizations like the First Tee and Evans Scholars are great foundations for our local youth to participate in, and a way to help shape their futures,” Larry said. “I made it a life long commitment to help organizations do this.”

For the Pentiuks, a Qualified Charitable Distribution through an IRA was a way they could support First Tee’s expansion in a big way, and make it tax beneficial. Click here for a quick article from Dave Ramsey explaining a QCD. First Tee is so grateful for Larry and Lisa’s support of kids and teens in Holland. A final thought from Larry…

“I have found the perfect vehicle to do this through my IRA account via a QCD. I am 99 years young and still love this game and so want others to do the same. Watch your backswing!!”

Would you join Larry and Lisa, and make a year-end gift to help support young people in YOUR backyard?

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Donor Spotlight: Rick & Anna Van Swol
Program of Support: First Tee’s Caddie Program
Giving Mechanism: Donor Advised Fund

How it Started, By Rick Van Swol

I was first introduced to the First Tee when they were the beneficiary at a charity golf outing. After meeting CEO Tyler Smies, and finding out more about First Tee and how they help young boys and girls in the area, I agreed to raise money through playing in their Golf Marathon fundraiser. After one year of playing 72 holes, I decided it was much better for my physical-well being to focus on sponsoring the kids for each hole THEY played, or in one case, how many hotdogs they could eat (see picture below).

The picture that motivated Rick give his first gift to a Youth Marathoner, Bradley Lardie (now a First Tee alumni)
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The Next Push: Supporting First Tee’s Caddie Program

In recent years we have continued to support First Tee financially, but also recently by being part of First Tee’s caddie program. It started at Indian Trails, and now has been piloted at the club I’m a member of. These caddies have a goal of earning enough “loops” to qualify for an Evans Scholarship, a full-ride, room and board college scholarship (see flyer below for more on the caddie program’s growth). I have met some of these caddies program, and have been very impressed with their maturity, manners and enthusiasm. They are way ahead of where I was when I was a teen; they are excellent at interacting with adults and working towards a specific future plan. It also makes the round of golf that much more enjoyable.

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Why a Donor Advised Fund?

A number of years ago, I found I was getting predictable regarding our charitable giving by doing most of it at year end and focusing on the tax benefits. Anna and I made the decision to change this, and have found that using a Donor Advised Fund as the basis for our charitable giving works really well for us. It allows you to set aside monies you have earmarked for charitable purposes when it best suits you, taking into account the ever-changing tax laws and your own personal income history. You can donate money, stocks, or other assets into your fund. You can then distribute the “grants” all throughout the year, or save up the balance to be used in future years for special projects, or whatever time table works best for your favorite charities. A Donor Advised Fund is easy to set up, and will have a positive effect for years.

Regardless of how you and your family orchestrate your charitable giving, I would invite and encourage you to find out more about the First Tee and how they are impacting lives all around us.
Written by Rick VanSwol

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More Than Golf: How The Game Shaped Payden’s Future

Payden’s journey into golf began with First Tee – West Michigan as a participant, where he first picked up a club and discovered a game that would open doors far beyond the course. What started as a new hobby soon led him to become a dedicated caddie, eventually earning the prestigious Evans Scholarship to the University of Notre Dame and setting him on a path filled with opportunity, growth, and lifelong connections.

Growing up in Grand Haven, Michigan, Payden was introduced to the game at a young age. At the time, he was new to the sport and wasn’t sure what to expect. But what he found at First Tee was a welcoming and supportive space that helped him grow both on and off the course.

“I didn’t feel intimidated or stressed,” Payden said, remembering his early days in the First Tee Program. “It was engaging and welcoming, and it made me want to get better.”

It didn’t take long for Payden to move from participant to leader. As his golf skills improved and he got older, he took on more responsibility, first as a volunteer, then as junior coach, and eventually as a lead coach. Teaching kids quickly became one of his favorite parts of his First Tee experience.

“The kids were always so excited after school and full of energy,” he said. “Watching them learn and have fun reminded me why I stayed with it. They’d run up to me and ask, ‘Can I show you my swing?’ It was really meaningful.”

At 13, Payden began caddying at Wuskowhan Players Club in West Olive, Michigan, learning the game of golf by assisting players and carrying their bags. What started as a summer job quickly became a big part of his life. By age 15, he began hearing about The Evans Scholarship, a full tuition and housing scholarship for golf caddies who show strong academics, leadership, and character. It’s awarded by the Western Golf Association and helps hardworking students attend top universities across the country.

“I didn’t even know it existed at first,” Payden said. “But once I looked into it, I realized how much it could help me, and it did.”

Payden applied for the Evans Scholarship, was accepted, and is now attending the University of Notre Dame as an Evans Scholar. He’s currently double majoring in Accounting and Finance, a path that fits well with his interests.

 “I really love mathematics, and I enjoy understanding how business works,” he said. On campus, he’s actively involved in the Club Coordination Council, which helps support and fund student organizations, and he holds a leadership role in his Evans Scholars chapter, coordinating community service and philanthropy events.

Looking back, Payden says caddying and First Tee helped him develop real-life skills, like professionalism, discipline, and perseverance, that continue to help him in college and in life.

“Caddying isn’t just about carrying a bag,” he explained. “You have to show up early, be prepared, dress right, and carry yourself professionally. You’re working with people of all backgrounds and learning how to communicate well. It teaches you responsibility.”

Payden also talked about the values and unique networking opportunities that come with caddying. He shared how being a caddie taught him responsibility, patience, and how to carry himself with confidence. But beyond the lessons, he emphasized the connections, explaining how the relationships built on the course often extend far beyond the 18th hole.

“The golf course is the best place to meet people and build connections,” he said. “That’s something you don’t get from most other jobs. You never know who you might meet or what opportunities might come from it.”

When asked what advice he’d give to younger First Tee participants or new caddies, Payden didn’t hesitate.

“Don’t let anything hold you back,” he said. “If it’s money, time, or confidence, push through. The First Tee gives you all the tools to succeed. And if you’re thinking about caddying, do it. It can change your future.”

“The connections you make through First Tee and caddying can last a lifetime, and I think that’s something really special.”

First Tee – West Michigan Welcomes Matt Forkin and Ian Hughes to Board of Directors

Earlier this year, First Tee – West Michigan welcomed Matt Forkin and Ian Hughes to its Board of Directors. Both bring extensive experience in golf, education, and youth development, and will help advance First Tee’s mission of empowering young people to build character and confidence through life’s challenges.

Matt Forkin
Forkin serves as Chief Executive Officer at the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kalamazoo, where he has held a variety of leadership roles since 2010. He brings extensive experience in youth development, nonprofit management, and fundraising, and is actively engaged in the Kalamazoo community through volunteerism and board service. Outside of work, Forkin enjoys golf, pickleball, reading, and community engagement.

Ian Hughes
Hughes is the Director of Instruction at GOLFTEC Grand Rapids and a PGA Member. With over 50,000 golf lessons given and 24 years of coaching experience, he is currently ranked the #2 Golf Instructor in Michigan by Golf Digest. A Ferris State University alumnus in Professional Golf Management, Hughes has a lifelong passion for growing the game of golf. He has participated in the First Tee – West Michigan Golf Marathon eight times and serves on the Golf Outing Task Force Committee, helping make the event a continued success.

“Matt and Ian’s support and involvement over the past decade has helped First Tee – West Michigan improve impact in two ways – life skills curriculum and community development from Matt’s time at the Boys & Girls Club, and golf technique and training from Ian,” said Tyler Smies, Chief Executive Officer of First Tee – West Michigan. “To have such experts in the room as we make decisions and connect with the community is a tremendous blessing and resource. Most importantly, Ian and Matt so obviously reflect the values and life skills we seek to instill in our kids and teens – they are both men of high character and integrity.”

Forkin and Hughes join Randy Freeburg, Antoinetta Freeman, Nate Golomb, Russ Hines, John Kruis, Randy Lindquist, Jason Manshum, Travis Mikulenas, Maureen Fitzgerald Penn, Ross Ryzenga, Henry Stallings III, and Scott VanderLinde on the First Tee – West Michigan Board of Directors.

Keeping kids safe: How SafeSport strengthens our commitment to youth 

At First Tee, creating safe, supportive environments where young people can thrive is fundamental to everything we do. That’s why we follow the guidelines established by the U.S. Center for SafeSport, a critical framework that helps us protect the participants we serve. 

The U.S. Center for SafeSport is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending all forms of abuse in sport. Its comprehensive approach includes: 

  • Education for coaches, volunteers and administrators 
  • Policies that define misconduct and establish reporting procedures 
  • A centralized reporting system for investigating allegations of misconduct 

The organization’s mission is straightforward: ensure that sports remain an enriching experience free from abuse and misconduct. While golf might look different from competitive team sports, the principles of SafeSport align with our mission of building character and life skills in young people.  

We mandate background checks and SafeSport training for all First Tee coaches and staff because: 

  • Protecting participants comes first. Young people deserve to learn and grow in environments where they feel safe, respected and valued. SafeSport training equips our staff and volunteers with the knowledge to create safe spaces and respond appropriately if concerns arise. 
  • Prevention is our top priority. SafeSport’s emphasis on education helps our entire First Tee network understand what constitutes misconduct, recognize warning signs and know the proper steps for reporting concerns. This proactive approach is far more effective than reactive measures alone. 
  • SafeSport helps us build trust with families. Through research in collaboration with The Harris Poll, we know parents show a strong preference for coaches who are trained background checked. Following SafeSport guidelines demonstrates our serious commitment to that responsibility and provides families with confidence that we’re taking every reasonable measure to keep young people safe. 

We’re not just checking a box; we’re making an ongoing commitment that includes regular training and continuous improvement of our safety practices. By following SafeSport guidelines, we’re ensuring that every young person who walks into a First Tee Chapter can focus on what matters most: developing their skills and discovering their potential. 

Support First Tee’s efforts to build Game Changers.

A commitment to service: Military veterans share why they volunteer at First Tee 

For many veterans, the transition from military service to civilian life means finding new ways to serve their communities. At First Tee, coaches with military backgrounds bring unique perspectives shaped by years of discipline, leadership and dedication to something greater than themselves. 

This Veterans Day, we spoke with three First Tee coaches who served in different branches of the military about their experiences, why service matters to them and what keeps them coming back to the course to mentor young people. 

Coach Joshua Grantham, First Tee – Phoenix 

Coach Joshua served in the U.S. Marine Corps from January 2002 to October 2008, achieving the title of Reconnaissance Marine. He helped to counter IEDs and capture high-value Al-Qaeda leaders in Iraq. He credits three Bible verses for driving his passion for service: 

  • “For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But do not use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.” Galatians 5:13 
  • “So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” John 13:34-35 
  • “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others.” Matthew 20:25 

Coach Joshua began his journey with First Tee as a parent. “Once I received some training on the First Tee Building Blocks and Coaching Philosophy, I was hooked,” he said. “I have implemented many of the strategies in my own parenting with great success.” 

His favorite moments on the golf course come when kids light up after hitting a great shot. “Ultimately, it is watching them shift their mindset from outcome to process, learning that they can accomplish anything,” he said. 
 
Coach Devin Shaw, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast 

Coach Devin served 12 years in the U.S. Army as a Unit Supply Specialist. He was responsible for ensuring soldiers had the equipment and resources needed to accomplish the mission. It was a role that required organization, accountability and a strong sense of service to others. 

“Service is about purpose, sacrifice and being part of something greater than yourself,” he said. “The Army had a clear mission, and serving my country gave me a deep sense of fulfillment. I took great pride in being a soldier and in contributing to something that mattered beyond my own life.” 

First Tee – Florida Gold Coast offers a golf program for veterans at Dyer Park, which was the original draw for Coach Devin. “The friendships and bonds I’ve formed through those programs have truly improved my quality of life. It gave me a sense of community again – something I really missed after leaving the military,” he said. 

 What keeps Coach Devin coming back to First Tee is getting to help new golfers experience the thrill of the perfect shot – and grow their confidence – one swing at a time. 

Coach Steve Napier, First Tee – Greater Washington DC 

Coach Steve spent 25 years as an Air Force intelligence officer, working at Air Force Special Operations Command and the Pentagon. The highlight of his career was being selected as Squadron Commander, leading over 210 personnel conducting various intelligence missions. 

Coach Steve originally wanted to fly but found out he was too tall. “I learned there was much more to being in the Air Force — the camaraderie, the focus on mission, and as I progressed, mentoring the new airmen and officers on their life and career,” he said. It was his passion for mentorship that inspired him to join First Tee as a coach.  

He was watching golf one day while stationed in Hawaii and saw a First Tee ad. “I didn’t know much about it, so I did some research and felt it was something I would like to be a part of, especially since I was getting close to retirement,” he said. He joined First Tee – Hawaii as a volunteer coach and later got involved with First Tee – Greater Washington DC. 

For Coach Steve, it means a lot when kids and parents keep returning to First Tee, and he’s seen participants grow over the years. “I love seeing their progress as kids and golfers, and a few are playing in some junior golfer tournaments,” he said. 

This Veterans Day, we’re grateful for coaches like Joshua, Devin, Steve and the hundreds of other veterans who volunteer at First Tee chapters across the country. Their continued service makes a lasting impact on the next generation. Learn more about volunteering at First Tee. 

Actress, First Tee alumna Kathryn Newton to headline First Tee 2025 Drive Your Future Academy presented by John Deere 

The annual female empowerment event will be making its Ponte Vedra Beach debut 

Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. – (Nov. 6, 2025) – First Tee and John Deere will welcome 36 girls from across the country to the 2025 Drive Your Future Academy, a five-day leadership program created to help girls develop critical skills that will serve them in college and beyond.  

Known for her many movie and television roles, First Tee Ambassador Kathryn Newton will take part in a fireside chat. As an alumna of First Tee – Miami, she brings both a personal connection to the organization and a passion for empowering the next generation. Newton and other adult mentors will also join the girls for a golf outing at The Yards. 

November 7, 2025: Attendees play golf at The Yards and take part in a workshop with a John Deere executive during the First Tee Drive Your Future Academy in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL.

From Nov. 6-10, female leaders from organizations like John Deere, CapTech, Accenture and Cisco will lead sessions including:  

  • Advocating for yourself and others  
  • Overcoming adverse situations  
  • Cultivating meaningful relationships  
  • Roadmap to successful mentorship  
  • Embracing self-awareness  

The 36 teen participants will also lead a volunteer opportunity at the Salvation Army and explore historic downtown St. Augustine. 

The event reinforces First Tee’s commitment to empowering girls through its programs, which are offered through 150 chapters across the country. Most First Tee Chapters provide dedicated programming for girls, intentionally inviting and engaging them in a variety of opportunities. The First Tee Drive Your Future Academy presented by John Deere is one of a full slate of teen participant events that are open to girls in the First Tee Network.    

“With our commitment to providing innovative solutions to our customers, John Deere is always looking ahead, and our support of the Drive Your Future Academy is no exception,” said Bridget Dusing, sponsorship and events marketing manager at John Deere. “We are proud to support First Tee and the opportunities they provide to help prepare the next generation of leaders.”  

The teens were selected for the Drive Your Future Academy through a national application process based on essays, letters of recommendation and involvement in First Tee and other activities.    

“The Drive Your Future Academy represents everything we believe about the power of investing in young women — when girls develop confidence, leadership skills and meaningful connections early, they don’t just succeed in golf, they transform entire industries and communities,”  said Jennifer Weiler, senior vice president of network relations at First Tee. “We’re proud to partner with John Deere to create this transformative experience that equips these 36 young leaders with the tools and network they need to break barriers and drive change in whatever field they choose.”    

Since 2012, John Deere has supported First Tee, a youth development organization celebrating nearly three decades of teaching life skills and helping kids and teens build their strength of character through golf.  

    

First Tee, Golf Digest honor 2025 network award winners advancing youth through golf

Golf Digest awards $175,000 to winning First Tee chapters in celebration of their impact

Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. – (Nov. 5, 2025) – In partnership with Golf Digest, First Tee is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 network awards, recognizing outstanding individuals and chapters who exemplify the organization’s mission to empower young people through golf.

“First Tee has more than 10,000 passionate and committed adults who are involved in supporting chapters throughout the network,” said CEO Greg McLaughlin. “Congratulations to those selected for our 2025 network awards. Our mission would not be possible without their involvement and leadership. We are also very grateful to Golf Digest for their continued support of First Tee and our chapters.”

The awards celebrate the transformative work of coaches, volunteers, educators and leaders across the First Tee network. In recognition of their achievements, Golf Digest will award $175,000 in grants to support the honorees and their chapters.

“We are proud to honor these inspiring individuals and chapters who bring the game of golf to kids of all backgrounds,” said Chris Reynolds, general manager of Golf Digest. “Their dedication helps shape character and confidence far beyond the course.”

First Tee offers programming at golf courses, schools and community sites across the country and in select international locations, impacting more than 3.1 million youth annually. It celebrates its annual award winners each fall. This year’s recipients are:

Tim Finchem Leadership Award: Andrew Hunt, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast
Founder of First Tee – Treasure Coast (now part of First Tee – Florida Gold Coast), Hunt has served as a board member and passionate mentor since 2012. His personal contributions total more than $3.5 million to various First Tee chapters and national initiatives. Most notably, he provided $450,000 to establish a new learning center in Fort Pierce, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast’s most underserved community.

Coach of the Year: Anthony Rodriguez, First Tee – Metropolitan New York
With 15 years of dedicated service, “Coach Arod” contributed more than a thousand hours of instruction in the past year alone. He’s been an integral part of the chapter’s efforts to make golf more accessible to New York City kids and teens, including an outreach initiative at Mosholu Golf Course in the Bronx. 

George H.W. Bush Volunteer of the Year: Allen Doyle, First Tee – Troup County
A former professional golfer, Doyle has led First Tee – Troup County for two decades as its board president and largest donor. Known for his hands-on approach, he mows grass, repairs clubs and coaches at the chapter every weekend.

Teacher of the Year:  Michelle Phillips LeBlanc, First Tee – Atlantic
Based at Forest Glen School in New Brunswick, Phillips LeBlanc has introduced over 400 students to the game of golf. She’s organized golf course field trips and a STEM mini golf challenge, where students design a course in the gym and welcome parents to play.

Each of the chapters will receive $25,000 from Golf Digest to further their impact. First Tee – Canada will split its prize with Forest Glen School. Additionally, Golf Digest will make financial contributions to three chapters that are being recognized with the Barbara A. Douglas & Dr. William J. Powell Community Award, which celebrates chapters that are championing access and inclusivity.

  • First Tee – Greater Richmond ($35,000)
    Hosting over 25 annual field trips for Title I schools, this chapter has impacted 500+ kids through partnerships with organizations like the Boys & Girls Club and Police Athletic League.
  • First Tee – Birmingham ($25,000)
    The chapter boasts a diverse roster of board members and coaches, ensuring every participant has an advocate or mentor with whom they identify. It also offers scholarships to all participants on free- or reduced-lunch programs.
  • First Tee – East Baton Rouge Parish ($15,000)
    Led by executive director Henry Pointer, Louisiana’s first Black PGA professional, this chapter maintains deep partnerships with local schools and nonprofits.

Addison Murphy brings heart, hustle and hope to Drive Your Future Academy

Addison Murphy’s grandpa first handed her a golf club when she was just 3. In addition to introducing her to the sport she loves, her family instilled other values that guide her way.

“If you want something, you have to work for it,” she said. “Things don’t just happen on their own. You have to show up and keep trying, even when it gets frustrating or doesn’t go the way you hoped.”

That philosophy has carried her through significant life transitions, including a move from Georgia to Pennsylvania in 2022. Starting fresh in a new city and school wasn’t easy, but Addison kept showing up and growing her community.

Though golf had always been part of Addison’s life, she didn’t begin playing seriously until age 13, when her mother discovered First Tee while searching for golf classes. Since joining First Tee – Greater Philadelphia, Addison has become one of the chapter’s most engaged participants, attending over 45 classes across seven locations in just the past year.

Her dedication has paid off both on and off the course – from Top 3 finishes at chapter tournaments to unique experiences, like serving as a standard bearer at the 2025 Truist Championship, Addison has made the most of her time with First Tee – Greater Philadelphia. Now she’s preparing to embark on a new adventure: attending the 2025 First Tee Drive Your Future Academy presented by John Deere.

At the five-day female-empowerment event held in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, Addison and her cohort will hear from accomplished female business leaders on topics like networking, building confidence and the importance of giving back.

Unleashing her potential

A high school sophomore, Addison has already demonstrated a passion for entrepreneurship. She completed First Tee – Greater Philadelphia’s Caddie Academy earlier this year, and she spoke at the chapter’s annual fundraising event, addressing a crowd of more than 150 donors.

Her service work spans multiple areas. Through her church youth group, she’s participated in local service projects and even traveled to the Dominican Republic to help build a house for a family in need. Her passion for animals led her to contribute over 200 hours to Rucker Dog Training in Georgia, helping foster and prepare therapy dogs for schools, community programs and law enforcement — work that earned her the AKC Canine & Me Community Achievement Award in 2022 and a certificate of appreciation from the Gainesville Police Department.

After moving to Pennsylvania, Addison didn’t let distance stop her community engagement. She launched “Addie Trains Puppers,” her own dog walking and training business.

‘Challenges can turn into growth’

As Addison prepares for the Drive Your Future Academy, she’s exploring multiple potential career paths, from business and architecture to music production. Whatever direction she ultimately chooses, her approach will likely remain the same: show up, work hard and keep pushing forward.

“Challenges can turn into growth if you don’t give up,” she said, reflecting on bunker struggles, big moves and the ongoing journey of becoming who she wants to be.

The Drive Your Future Academy will bring together exceptional young women from across the First Tee network for leadership development, career exploration and empowerment. For Addison Murphy, it’s another opportunity to grow, give back and represent what First Tee stands for: building game changers, both on the course and in life.

Creating an inclusive First Tee experience: Partnering with parents to support participants with IEPs and 504 Plans

By Kristin Westberg – Senior Director, Training & Evaluation

At First Tee, we’re committed to helping all young people build character, confidence and life skills through golf. That includes participants with diverse learning needs — some of whom may have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan.

These plans are designed to help students succeed in school, but they can also provide valuable insights for our coaches and volunteers. With participants back in school, now is a perfect time to discuss with your chapter how it can meet your child’s needs. By working closely with families, we can create a more inclusive, supportive and empowering experience for every participant.

Why parent partnerships matter

Parents and caregivers are the best source of knowledge about their child’s strengths, challenges and what helps them thrive. When we build trust and open lines of communication, we can better understand how to support each participant in a way that’s respectful, personalized and effective.

What to share during the intake process

You don’t need to provide chapters with the full IEP or 504 Plan — just the essentials that will help them provide a great experience. Here are a few questions to consider:

  • Does your child have an IEP or 504 Plan?
  • Are there specific accommodations or strategies that work well for them?
  • Are there any triggers or challenges we should be aware of?
  • What are your child’s strengths and interests?
  • What helps your child feel safe, confident and included?

This information can be summarized into a simple “Participant Snapshot” for coaches to reference, helping them tailor instruction and interactions in a meaningful way.

Program adaptations that make a big impact

Here are a few adaptations our chapters have made that can help participants with IEPs or 504 Plans thrive:

  • Visual schedules: They may use boards or laminated sheets to show the day’s activities in order.
  • Instructional cue cards: They may provide visual prompts for golf skills or life skills as reminders.
  • Color-coded zones: They often use cones or other items to mark areas and support transitions.
  • Behavior supports: They may offer “break cards” or “feelings charts” to help participants communicate their needs.

These tools support not only students with learning differences but also help all participants feel more confident and engaged.

The Power of Listening and Learning

By listening to families, being flexible and showing a willingness to adapt and learn, First Tee Chapters can create spaces where all kids feel valued and supported.

From course to career: Coach Stuart demonstrates the transformative power of First Tee mentors 

Accenture, a global professional services company and First Tee Trustee, hosts a personal development session for staff members at its Atlanta office on the first Friday of each month. Stuart Furlow had no idea one of these workshops would lead to one of the most rewarding experiences of his professional life. While working as a manufacturing and operations consultant, Stuart was also looking for a way to give back, and First Tee – Metro Atlanta provided the perfect opportunity. 

Growing up, Stuart learned golf from his father, uncle and cousin. The game had been a part of his life, but he’d never considered becoming a coach. “It was perfect timing,” Stuart said about discovering First Tee. “I just finished a project and heard about the volunteer opportunity. I wanted to be a mentor. I wanted to teach the game of golf and learn about First Tee.” Little did Stuart know, he would create a meaningful relationship with a participant named Ethan, helping to shape his bright future ahead. 

A mentorship built on more than golf 

Ethan Herndon didn’t take up golf by choice. When his dad first brought him to First Tee – Metro Atlanta at 8 years old, he went “begrudgingly,” following in his older sister’s footsteps. But that day changed everything. While golf can be portrayed as a sport for older and wealthier people, “First Tee is the opposite of that – it’s for everybody,” he said. 

For the next decade, Ethan returned to John A. White Golf Course every Saturday. By the time Stuart joined First Tee as a coach three years ago, Ethan was a high school freshman starting to think seriously about his future. 

Stuart immediately noticed something special about Ethan. “His work ethic: He was always one of the first kids out there, starting before we even got the chance to begin our actual lesson,” Stuart said. “We started talking and learning more about each other. I learned what he was interested in, what his aspirations were, and I started to add a little bit of feedback and my own perspective.” 

For Ethan, Stuart became more than just a golf coach. “He had a lot of advice that was very beneficial to me: looking at majors, programs, scholarships, things I hadn’t heard from other people before,” Ethan said. “He gave me a different outlook.” 

What made Stuart’s mentorship particularly meaningful was his genuine concern for Ethan’s overall wellbeing. “While shooting low scores and hitting good shots are important, Coach Stuart always wanted to make sure we were doing good in school, mentally, physically, and that everything was going well,” Ethan said. “He was truly concerned about our wellbeing and how we were as people versus just golfers.” 

The power of partnership 

Stuart’s commitment to First Tee reflects Accenture’s broader values. “The partnership between Accenture and First Tee is something that Accenture takes great pride in,” Stuart said. “We continuously talk about making an impact in the communities we serve.” 

But for Stuart, the impact goes beyond corporate social responsibility; it’s personal. Stuart sees his role as helping participants like Ethan navigate life with the benefit of his own experience. 

Through the Hope Tee Shot and other programs, Accenture’s support of First Tee and its Metro Atlanta chapter extend beyond participants’ time in high school. “It doesn’t stop after you leave the program,” Stuart said. “We want to continue supporting current students and alumni through all the avenues of life.” 

Today, Ethan has spent 10 years with First Tee – Metro Atlanta, transforming from a reluctant golfer into a young man with clear goals and the confidence to pursue them. Stuart’s mentorship played a crucial role in that journey, not just teaching him about golf, but helping him understand the possibilities ahead. 

Their story demonstrates the true mission of First Tee: using golf as a vehicle to build character and teach life skills that extend far beyond the course. And for volunteers like Stuart, it’s proof that giving back can be one of the most rewarding experiences of all. 

Learn more about how you can support young people like Ethan. 

First Tee celebrates National Coaches Day with launch of video series showcasing coach philosophy 

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL (Oct. 6, 2025) – In celebration of National Coaches Day, national youth development organization First Tee is proud to announce the launch of a new video series spotlighting the heart of its program: its coaches. 

Titled “Coaching the First Tee Way,” the series offers an inside look at how First Tee coaches across the country create safe, supportive and empowering environments where young people can grow on and off the golf course. The series features real stories, footage and conversations with coaches and parents, highlighting how First Tee’s unique approach goes beyond the game. 

“At First Tee, we believe a coach is more than a teacher; they’re a mentor, role model and positive force in a young person’s life,” said Ryan Graff, vice president of programs at First Tee. “This video series honors the thousands of coaches who bring our mission to life every day and showcases the power of intentional coaching.” 

Every First Tee class is active, social and fun because kids learn best when they’re engaged and supported. Our multilevel training program ensures that coaches are prepared to bring this philosophy to life through four core building blocks: activity based, empowering youth, continuous learning and mastery driven. This holistic approach doesn’t just make kids better golfers, it helps them thrive in school, at home and in life. The series is designed to inspire current and future coaches, while offering insights into how First Tee integrates life skills and values into every coaching moment. 

Research from First Tee and The Harris Poll shows that coaches leave a lasting impact that can extend into adulthood. More than 90% of parents with grown children say they’ve seen firsthand how youth sports can shape a child’s future.   

The first installment of “Coaching the First Tee Way” is available now on Instagram and firsttee.org, with additional episodes rolling out weekly through October.