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.”