Category: News Releases

First Tee – The Lowcountry Expands to Serve Even More Youth Across the Region

For the past 11 years, First Tee – The Lowcountry has been a driving force for positive change across Beaufort and Jasper Counties. From their beautiful facility on Gumtree Road in Hilton Head Island, the organization has reached far and wide to teach area youth the game of golf and the importance of strong moral character. Through school visits, clinics at courses across the Lowcountry, and life-changing programs, First Tee has set students up for success both on and off the course.

Although based on Hilton Head Island, their impact extends well beyond the island’s borders. From north of the Broad River to Jasper County and beyond, First Tee has met young people wherever they are, offering both a guiding hand and golf lessons to sharpen their backswing. While that sometimes meant extra travel, a new move is making it easier to reach the growing number of children in the region.

First Tee – The Lowcountry has opened a new space at Plantation Park in Bluffton, which will serve as their administrative headquarters and give the organization a foothold in one of the region’s fastest-growing areas.

“The idea is to get closer to where kids are and where the population is expanding,” said Pat Zuk, Executive Director. “The kid population is surging out there, so it puts us closer to them while not changing anything about how we do things on Hilton Head Island.”

As the number of participants in their programs grew, so did First Tee’s need for more space. The Hilton Head facility had reached full capacity, with one team member working from a makeshift office—a folding table in the lobby.

“It was time for some office space,” Zuk explained.

This new location not only provides much-needed administrative space but also helps First Tee better serve youth across the region, particularly in Jasper County and north of the Broad River. By reducing travel time, it allows instructors to spend more time teaching and exploring opportunities to add new venues and schools to their programs.

“This is going to make it much easier for our instructors to access all the places off-island where we’re already holding classes,” said Zuk. “Plus, it enables them to spend more time finding additional venues for classes and schools to add to our school program. It’s a much more convenient way for us to do business.”

When your business is transforming young people’s lives, every little improvement helps—whether it’s a generous community donation or a few minutes saved on a drive. It all serves the greater mission: teaching youth the game of golf while shaping them into future leaders of our community and beyond.

First Tee – The Lowcountry is grateful for the continued support of the community as they expand their reach and opportunities for young people to learn, grow, and lead.

Spring Registration Now Open

First Tee – The Lowcountry has officially opened registration for its 2025 Spring Classes, offering young golfers a chance to develop their skills, build confidence, and learn valuable life lessons through the game of golf. Classes run from March 10 to May 3, 2025, and are available at multiple locations across the Lowcountry.

Program Overview

The First Tee program is structured to accommodate young golfers of all skill levels, with sessions tailored for different age groups. Each class will have a maximum of 15 participants, ensuring personalized instruction and engagement.

Class Locations and Schedules

First Tee – The Lowcountry Campus (Hilton Head Island)

  • Ages 13+: Mondays, 6:00 – 7:15 PM (March 10 – April 28)
  • Ages 10-12: Mondays, 4:30 – 5:45 PM (March 10 – April 28)
  • Ages 7-9:
    • Tuesdays, 4:30 – 5:45 PM (March 11 – April 29)
    • Tuesdays, 6:00 – 7:15 PM (March 11 – April 29)
    • Saturdays, 10:30 – 11:45 AM (March 15 – May 3)

The Landings at Pleasant Point (Beaufort, SC)

  • Ages 7-9: Tuesdays, 4:30 – 5:45 PM (March 11 – April 29)
  • Ages 10+: Tuesdays, 6:00 – 7:15 PM (March 11 – April 29)

Pinecrest Golf Club (Bluffton, SC)

  • Ages 7-9:
    • Wednesdays, 4:30 – 5:45 PM (March 12 – April 30)
    • Wednesdays, 6:00 – 7:15 PM (March 12 – April 30)

The Golf Club at Hilton Head Lakes

  • Ages 10+:
    • Wednesdays, 4:30 – 5:45 PM (March 12 – April 30)
    • Wednesdays, 6:00 – 7:15 PM (March 12 – April 30)

Affordable Pricing and Financial Aid

Each class is $80 per student, and financial aid is readily available, ensuring accessibility for all families interested in the program.

How to Register

Parents can register their children online by visiting www.firstteelowcountry.org/register. For more details, contact Aaron Immel at [email protected].

Why Join First Tee?

First Tee is more than just golf—it’s a youth development program that helps young people build character, resilience, and leadership skills while having fun on the course. Through engaging activities and expert instruction, participants learn important values like integrity, perseverance, and respect that will benefit them in all areas of life.

With limited spots available, parents are encouraged to register early to secure their child’s participation in this fantastic spring program!

For more information and updates, follow First Tee – The Lowcountry on social media and visit their official website.

A New Era for Junior Golf on Hilton Head Island

When the Hilton Head Island Junior Golf Association (HHIJGA) found itself without operational leadership earlier this year, it could have marked the end of an era for youth golf. The local chapter of the South Carolina Junior Golf Association (SCJGA) and the Hootie and the Blowfish Junior Golf Tour had been running youth golf tournaments for decades, serving as a launchpad for talented young golfers.

And were it not for one brilliant move, it could have all been over. Instead, the organization turned to a partner whose mission aligns perfectly with theirs: First Tee – The Lowcountry. Known for its commitment to developing young talent both on and off the course, First Tee stepped in to ensure that junior golf in the region would not only continue but thrive.

“Golf tournaments for kids—that’s right up our alley,” said First Tee Executive Director Pat Zuk. “Plus, this provides a great opportunity for our participants to be able to do things outside of the program.”

A Winning Partnership

Already, this partnership has proven to be mutually beneficial. First Tee – The Lowcountry has leveraged its expertise to keep HHIJGA moving forward, while the Junior Golf Association’s robust summer tournament schedule has provided First Tee students with a chance to test their skills in competitive play—when the weather has cooperated.

“It’s been a bit of a weather challenge. Our first event was rain-shortened after nine holes, our third event was heat-shortened, and our ninth event was right during Debby,” said Zuk. “But it’s been really fun. This has allowed our kids to play on a variety of courses, from Old South to the Country Club of Hilton Head. And one event was particularly special—a par three shootout on Colleton River’s par three course.”

While the majority of participants in these tournaments have come from the general public, First Tee is working to increase the involvement of its own students. “Right now, it’s probably about 15 percent First Tee kids, but this is just year one,” said Zuk. “That number will only grow as more of our kids participate.”

Success at the State Level

The impact of this partnership extends beyond Hilton Head. Two of First Tee’s standout participants, Daniel Morrell and his brother Paul, won their respective age groups at the statewide Tommy Cuthbert All-Star Tournament, which showcases the top junior golfers from across South Carolina.

“There’s a lot of competitive golf being played out there, and this is a great way for kids in our area to gain experience in a high-level tournament setting,” said Zuk. “It’s beneficial for those already competing, as well as those who want to see what competitive golf is all about.”

Thanks to First Tee – The Lowcountry’s leadership, the future of junior golf on Hilton Head Island is brighter than ever.

Girls Golf + First Tee Partnership!

2025 LPGA Girls Golf Program Now Open and FREE to First Tee Students.

What to Expect:

Develop golf skills, fitness, and character through engaging games and skill development.

Learn to play on the golf course, not just swing a club.

Progress through the “5 E’s of Girls Golf” (Empower, Enrich, Engage, Exercise, Energize) with age-specific skills challenges.

Coaching provided by LPGA and PGA Golf Professionals.

Start Date:

Kickoff Event: Sunday, February 2, 2025 | 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: The Zone, 108 Buckwalter Parkway, Bluffton, SC

Regular Sessions:

Sundays, 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM

Locations include:

First Tee – Low Country (Boys & Girls Club, Gumtree Road, Hilton Head Island)

Berkeley Hall (366 Good Hope Road, Bluffton, SC)

Ages:

Girls 6-16, all skill levels welcome (from beginners to competitive players).

Coaches:

Krista Dunton: Director of Instruction, Berkeley Hall; Golf Digest #1 Teacher in SC, LPGA Top 50 Teacher

Betty Kaufman: Former Men’s Coach at DePaul University, Former LPGA Tour Player

Julie Cole: Senior Instructor at Sea Pines Resort, LPGA Top 50 Teacher, Former LPGA Tour Player

Stephanie George: Head Golf Professional at Berkeley Hall, Former LPGA Tour Player

Jordan Britt: Epson LPGA Mini Tour Professional

Dona Lerner: LPGA Top 50 Teacher

Cost:

$170 for all sessions

Scholarships available (Contact Krista Dunton)

If you are enrolled in First Tee – The Lowcountry, this program is FREE!

Registration:

Download the LPGA Girls Golf App.

Email Krista Dunton at [email protected] with your child’s:

Shirt size

Age

Club requirement (if applicable)

For more details, visit the LPGA Girls Golf of Low Country Facebook Page or contact Krista Dunton at [email protected] | 843-290-8714.

First Tee- The Lowcountry – Creating Brighter Futures

The First Tee has always been an organization dedicated to creating brighter futures. Across schools and programs throughout the country, this network of 150 local chapters has helped countless students gain valuable life skills to propel them toward their goals.

Our local chapter, First Tee – The Lowcountry, has long been one of the broader organization’s most dynamic members. Through classes at their stunning Gumtree Road facility and in classrooms across Beaufort and Jasper counties, they have elevated our community’s youth and guided them to become exactly the kind of citizens we need.

This past year, they took their impact even further by granting one deserving student the inaugural First Tee – The Lowcountry Secondary Education Scholarship. Joshua Smith, last year’s recipient, is using the funds he received to finance his education at The United States Air Force Academy.

“One thing most people don’t realize about the service academies is that students still have to come up with a fair amount of tuition money on their own,” said Pat Zuk, Executive Director for First Tee – The Lowcountry. “Joshua is a really good kid. He actually just came back to update the board on how he’s doing. He’s getting really into engineering. He is not only going to be great for the community at large, but he’s also exactly who you want in the armed forces.”

Smith’s scholarship, presented this past April during the First Tee Gala, was spearheaded by national First Tee trustee and Palmetto Bluff resident John Bankhead. Awarding the scholarship in honor of his parents, Bankhead told C2 at the time:

“That’s one of the things that drew me to (First Tee) – working with youth and setting up scholarships.”

This year’s scholarship will be granted to a deserving student thanks to two stalwart benefactors of First Tee – The Lowcountry, Ken and Joan Campbell. One of the earliest donors to the then-fledgling program when it launched 11 years ago, the Campbells were only too happy to keep this invaluable scholarship going.

“When we explained it to Ken and Joan, they doubled the amount they were giving,” added Zuk.

Their generosity will help another student this year as the beneficiary of the 2025 First Tee – The Lowcountry Post-Secondary Education Scholarship. Eligible students must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a current or former First Tee – The Lowcountry participant.
  • Be in their senior year of high school or currently enrolled in a post-secondary two- or four-year program.
  • Have a minimum 2.0 GPA.
  • Exemplify First Tee’s dedication to community, embodying the nine core values, participating in Life Skills classes, and engaging in community service.

“For our donors like The Campbells and John Bankhead to make this kind of financial commitment is a real gift to us,” said Zuk. “Thanks to them, these young people can pursue whatever they want beyond high school, whether it’s a two- or four-year program or trade school.”

Interested students can apply through The Community Foundation of the Lowcountry or at firstteelowcountry.org.

First Tee National Championship: Lowcountry’s Own Jeep Patrick Shines on the Big Stage

This past June, young golfers from across the country made their way to the Palmetto State to test their golf game on the challenging links at Clemson University’s Walker Course during the 2024 First Tee National Championship. But these weren’t just any young golfers. These were the selected champions from nationwide chapters of The First Tee, an organization dedicated to teaching young people the fundamentals of golf and the importance of good character.

During the tournament, guest speakers led conversations around First Tee’s values and life skills experience, augmenting the challenge of the tournament with the personal development that sets the organization apart. And the players, all First Tee students, came from across the country to represent their home chapters.

A Hometown Champion

One competitor didn’t have to travel far.

“It was a great experience, being able to represent the Lowcountry,” said Jeep Patrick.

A long-time student of First Tee – The Lowcountry, Patrick began his journey when he was 11 years old. He has not only proven himself a phenomenal golfer, with impressive wins at regional tournaments against competitors much more experienced, but has also shown himself to be a standard-bearer for First Tee’s values.

A Strong Finish on the National Stage

“We are incredibly proud of Jeep and his performance at the First Tee National Championship,” said Executive Director and Patrick’s coach, Pat Zuk. “His dedication to the sport and his representation of our values both on and off the course are truly commendable. We look forward to supporting Jeep in his future endeavors and watching his continued success in the world of golf.”

With the support of First Tee – The Lowcountry, Patrick finished the 2024 First Tee National Championship in fourth place in a field of 24 other student-athletes, finishing five under par after 54 holes.

“I felt honored to represent First Tee – The Lowcountry. They’re the ones who got me into golf,” said Patrick. “Mr. Pat Zuk and the entire board at First Tee showed an immense amount of support throughout my high school career. I tried my best to represent the First Tee and walked away with a good result.”

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future in Golf

The strong finish at nationals marks another stepping stone in a golf career that looks poised to take off.

“Next up, I’m playing in the U.S. Junior Amateur in Oakland Hills, Michigan,” said Patrick. “That will be my last junior golf tournament.”

In between that and the day he departs for college, Patrick is keeping his golf game sharp by caddying at Harbour Town Golf Links, studying under another legend of the game, John Farrell.

“He’s been a very good mentor, and it’s an honor to work with him,” Patrick shared.

The future looks bright for this young golfer and model of First Tee’s dedication to molding young people into champions—both on and off the course.

Celebrating 10 Years in 2024 – The First Tee-The Lowcountry will honor the community members who made it all possible.

For those familiar with First Tee – The Lowcountry, it’s clear that the organization is about far more than just golf. While students certainly develop their skills on the course, the true value of the program lies in its life lessons, mentorship, and character-building experiences that help guide young people toward a brighter future.

At the heart of these lessons are First Tee’s Nine Core Values, which serve as the foundation of its mission. Each year, these values take center stage at the Community Leadership Awards Banquet, where First Tee – The Lowcountry honors outstanding members of the community.

“Honoring the community is important to us because the community supports us,” said Executive Director Pat Zuk. “This year is a little different. As it’s our 10-year anniversary, we’re honoring people who had a significant impact on the development of our chapter.”

Recognizing Excellence in the Lowcountry

This year’s honorees have left a lasting impact on First Tee – The Lowcountry through their dedication, perseverance, and support.

🏆 Perseverance: Kim Likins

One of the founding figures of First Tee – The Lowcountry, Kim Likins played a crucial role in getting the chapter off the ground.

“Kim helped with everything—navigating government approvals, securing 501(c)(3) status, handling paperwork to build our facility on Gumtree Road. It took an incredible amount of perseverance,” said Zuk.

🏆 Confidence: Paul Caruso

As the first program director, Paul Caruso played a key role in developing First Tee’s curriculum and guiding young golfers.

“Paul has been a tremendous influence on the chapter, especially when it comes to building strong programs,” Zuk noted. “He’s been a true leader.”

🏆 Honesty: Herb Wehner (Volunteer of the Year & Mike Davis Award Winner)

A longtime leader of the First Tee Community Program at Red Cedar Elementary, Herb Wehner has gone above and beyond in his commitment to young golfers.

“Herb has truly taken ownership of our programs, and his dedication is unmatched,” said Zuk.

🏆 Responsibility: Clyde Johnston & Dr. Frank Rodriguez

  • Clyde Johnston, a renowned golf course designer, served on the First Tee board for six years, including two as chair, and was instrumental in designing the First Tee – The Lowcountry course.
  • Dr. Frank Rodriguez, Beaufort County Schools Superintendent, played a pivotal role in expanding First Tee’s school-based programs from just one school to 24.

“Both Clyde and Dr. Rodriguez have taken immense responsibility for ensuring the success of First Tee,” said Zuk.

🏆 Courtesy: The Devlin Foundation & Bruce Devlin

For years, the Devlin Foundation has provided financial support for First Tee. But their commitment to students extends far beyond funding.

“Bruce Devlin finished the design at Secession Golf Club, and every year they invite a group of First Tee students to their amateur tournament, treating them like kings,” said Zuk. “It’s an unforgettable experience for these kids.”

🏆 Integrity & Respect: Colleton River Club & Long Cove Club

Two of the Lowcountry’s most prestigious golf communities, Colleton River Club and Long Cove Club, are being honored for their years of unwavering support.

“These clubs have played a huge role in getting this facility up and running, and every year, we have volunteers from both communities. They have been tremendous supporters over the past decade,” Zuk shared.

Honoring a Legacy of Support

In addition to the Core Value Awards, two special Legacy Awards will be presented:

🏆 The Legacy Award: Ken & Joan Campbell

Ken and Joan Campbell were instrumental in fundraising for First Tee’s facility during its early stages.

“They did everything—the whole nine yards. Ken is someone I always look to for advice. He not only founded this chapter but also The First Tee of Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky,” said Zuk.

🏆 Paul Caruso Award & Sportsmanship Participant of the Year: Paul Morrell

A standout student at First Tee – The Lowcountry, Paul Morrell is being recognized for his leadership and mentorship of younger golfers.

“He’s just one of those kids you’re glad to know,” Zuk said. “At 12, he’s already coaching younger kids, showing maturity well beyond his years.”

Join Us for the Community Leadership Awards Banquet

📅 Date: April 16
📍 Location: Sea Pines Country Club
🎟️ Tickets & More Info: firstteelowcountry.org/events
📞 Call: 843-686-2680

Join us in celebrating 10 years of First Tee – The Lowcountry and the incredible individuals who have helped shape its success!

Ten Years of First Tee – The Lowcountry

Celebrating 10 Years of First Tee – The Lowcountry: A Legacy of Impact

Over the last ten years, First Tee – The Lowcountry has inspired youth, built a top-tier facility, and expanded its programs into more schools than ever before. But beyond the numbers and milestones, the real success story lies in the growth of young athletes—not just as golfers, but as well-rounded individuals.

From its 6-hole par-3 course to the selfless dedication of its volunteers, First Tee – The Lowcountry has become a pillar of the community, fostering skills, values, and opportunities for local youth.

A Strong Foundation, Thanks to Community Support

None of these accomplishments are surprising. As a local chapter of a national organization known for its positive impact on children, First Tee – The Lowcountry has enjoyed overwhelming community support since day one.

“I remember hearing about the facility when I was first interviewing for the job and thinking about how much debt that was going to entail. But the day it opened, it had already been paid for,” said Pat Zuk, Executive Director for the past five years.

“That’s a great example of how effectively people have taken this organization to heart.”

At the annual awards banquet this spring, First Tee will honor both its student-athletes and the founding donors who have been there from the beginning. From the Town of Hilton Head Island to gated communities and private citizens, the organization’s success has been a coalition of community support.

“These founding donors have helped build a legacy that’s going to last a very long time,” added Zuk.

A Decade of Growth and Achievements

That legacy already boasts some incredible milestones:

✅ 7,200 patrons have visited the facility.
✅ 575+ kids have participated in programs.
✅ First Tee programs expanded from 1 school to 24.

But if you ask Zuk, the biggest accomplishments aren’t in the numbers—they’re in the success stories of First Tee students.

“We’ve had four of our participants selected for the Congaree Global Golf Initiative, which is a program that’s just beyond compare,” he shared.

“For the last two years, our team has finished second in the First Tee National Tournament. We have one student committed to playing D1 golf, and several others who have made verbal commitments.”

The Heart of First Tee: Its Volunteers

Despite these achievements, First Tee remains 95% volunteer-run, making the dedication of board members and coaches invaluable.

“It’s really gratifying because this chapter has grown so fast due to our excellent board of directors who have worked very hard and accomplished a lot,” said Zuk.

“And our volunteer coaches do tremendous work. The kids and their families are so grateful for the work they do, and they’re a real credit to this community.”

Join the Legacy: Get Involved

As First Tee – The Lowcountry celebrates its 10-year anniversary, it invites the community to continue supporting its mission of building character through golf.

🔗 Learn more about First Tee – The Lowcountry’s programs and history: firstteelowcountry.org

New Study from The Harris Poll and First Tee: Coaches are the unsung heroes of youth development

Parents rely on sports – and trained coaches – to help their children build character and learn life skills, including working with others.  

CHICAGO, Ill. & PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. (Aug. 19, 2024) – While 93% of parents agree that kids can learn important life skills from playing sports, four out of five parents also believe there is a shortage of high-caliber coaches today.  

That is from a new survey by global consulting and market research firm, The Harris Poll, and youth development organization, First Tee. The U.S.-based survey was conducted online in April 2024 with feedback from 2,049 adults.​ 

The survey captured data on youth involvement in extracurricular activities and sports. The data was also analyzed by gender, age, race, education, and income, among other characteristics.​ 

“Since our mission is centered on positive youth development, we think it is important to seek parents’ perspectives as the world around them continues to change and their kids face new challenges,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “It helps us better understand and serve youth, and in the case of this study, it reinforces the importance of our investment in training our coaches.” 

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. The training system is built on research-proven methods of positive youth development, providing coaches with the tools to make kids feel safe, included and empowered. As part of First Tee’s onboarding, each coach is background-checked and completes training from the U.S. Center for SafeSport. 

The key findings from the survey include: 

  • 89% of parents feel character is a lost value that should be more emphasized in today’s society – an increase of +4 percentage points from the 2023 survey. Today’s kids and teens are facing new challenges, and strength of character is essential for overcoming obstacles. Parents understand that need, as nine out of 10 parents seek opportunities for their kids to build character. 
  • Parents believe sports can help close the character gap. Parents put their kids in extracurricular activities – with sports being most popular – for socialization and to build confidence. According to 93% of parents, children learn important life skills from playing sports.  
  • Parents believe coaches are essential to youth development. Parents turn to coaches to help teach their kids character, self-confidence, determination and leadership. 91% of parents agree that sports coaching should inspire children to excel both on and off the field. 
  • Safety is critically important to parents. They prefer coaches who have been background checked, with 94% of parents citing it as a priority in today’s world and 83% wishing their child had more access to well-trained coaches. 

“While every generation confronts their own unique challenges, kids are facing new barriers to character development,” said Harris Poll CEO Will Johnson. “Our research findings make it clear: Parents, when registering your kids for the upcoming school year, don’t forget the critical development that comes outside the classroom.” 

This is the second annual research collaboration between The Harris Poll and First Tee.  

Download the full 2024 Report. 

For the results of the 2023 parent survey, click here.  

*** 

About PGA TOUR First Tee Foundation (“First Tee”)    
First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth development organization that is supported by the PGA TOUR. Its mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through the game of golf. Since 1997, First Tee has expanded to reach millions of kids annually through its network of 150 chapters, 11,000 schools and 1,900 youth centers. Headquartered in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA, programs are delivered in all 50 United States and select international locations. President George W. Bush serves as Honorary Chair.   

About The Harris Poll 
The Harris Poll is a global consulting and market research firm that strives to reveal the authentic values of modern society to inspire leaders to create a better tomorrow. It works with clients in three primary areas: building twenty-first-century corporate reputation, crafting brand strategy and performance tracking, and earning organic media through public relations research. One of the longest-running surveys in the U.S., The Harris Poll has tracked public opinion, motivations, and social sentiment since 1963, and is now part of Stagwell, the challenger holding company built to transform marketing. 

###        
MEDIA CONTACTS:     
Annika Mayers, First Tee     
[email protected]  
904-273-3513  

40 First Tee Teens invited to First Tee Leadership Summit in Partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore  

Actors Michael Peña and Kathryn Newton will headline the two weeklong retreats focused on sharpening leadership skills. 

WEST CREEK RANCH, Mont. (August 5, 2024) – First Tee and PGA TOUR Superstore are set to host 40 teens from across the country at West Creek Ranch, an intimate setting in Montana for leadership development, community building and connection. Owned by PGA TOUR Superstore chairman and First Tee board member Arthur M. Blank, the picturesque ranch is the perfect setting for a once-in-a-lifetime experience for these teens to explore leadership development, community building and problem solving. Students spend much of the time in outdoor interactions including whitewater rafting, horseback riding and archery, based on the belief that connections made in nature provide benefits that cannot be replicated in the classroom.   

Each week will tee off with keynote speakers who will discuss their individual leadership, share life experiences and examine how they have grown through opportunities and challenges. The first week will feature actor Michael Peña, while actor and First Tee alumnus Kathryn Newton will be the featured speaker during the second week. 

The First Tee Leadership Summit is designed to help teens grow their leadership skills through hands-on activities that require teamwork and personal strength. Daily leadership themes include pursuing goals, growing through challenges and building positive self-identity.  

This is the fourth consecutive year that nonprofit youth development organization First Tee and PGA TOUR Superstore will hold this event at West Creek Ranch. This year’s group comes from 25 cities across the country, with 20 teens attending each week. West Creek Ranch is a 6,600-acre working ranch in Emigrant, Montana, that is bordered by the Yellowstone River and Gallatin National Forest.  

“We are excited to host these 40 impressive teens for an unforgettable week of personal growth and relationship building,” said Dick Sullivan, Executive Chairman & CEO, PGA TOUR Superstore. “So many lessons from golf can be applied to life, and we truly believe in the positive impact sports can have on kids and teens, which is why we’re proud to support this event and partner with First Tee chapters across the country.” 

“Thank you to Arthur Blank and PGA TOUR Superstore for their continued generosity in supporting this event,” added Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “The lessons these young leaders will take away from Montana will shape their futures in remarkable ways.”  

At the conclusion of the Summit, four students will be selected for the First Tee College Scholarship Program and will receive financial support as well as access to mentorship and professional development opportunities throughout college. 

To be eligible for the Summit, teens completed a five-week Leadership Series that was hosted at PGA TOUR Superstore locations across the country, before completing applications that outlined their leadership experience and goals. For more than a decade, PGA TOUR Superstore and Arthur Blank have championed First Tee’s mission through donations and by supporting participant events, including the Leadership Summit and the Leadership Academy, which is held in Atlanta. 

The Leadership Summit is one of several national opportunities provided by First Tee to expose teens to new challenges and inspire them as they prepare to embark on life after high school.  

See the full field of participants.

Yang and Mierl claim 2024 First Tee National Championship 

Clemson, South Carolina (June 27, 2024) – Norah Yang of Los Altos, California, and Trent Mierl of Austin, Texas, won the girls’ and boys’ divisions of the 4th annual First Tee National Championship at the Walker Course at Clemson University. The event brought together First Tee’s elite golfers for an opportunity to showcase how the program has helped build the confidence, perseverance and skills needed to play at the next level. 

Yang finished the tournament 6-under-par and shot a final round 69 to clench the victory on the girls’ side. She is a rising high school senior with a 4.0 GPA. She’s been a volunteer coach at First Tee – Silicon Valley for three years and finished 3rd at the 2023 PURE Insurance Championship, a PGA Tour Champions event that pairs First Tee juniors with professional players for a week of competition and mentorship at Pebble Beach.  

“It has been amazing playing at Clemson this week,” Yang said. “I have met so many amazing players from all the other chapters and had so many great experiences. Getting here and winning would not have been possible without First Tee and all the skills they have taught me.” 

Mierl, who will play golf at the University of Missouri next year, shot a blistering 65 in the final round to finish 9-under for the tournament. He’s been a member of First Tee for nine years and is a volunteer coach at his chapter. He’s the only player to compete in all four First Tee National Championships, with the inaugural event taking place in 2021, and said it was special to win in his final attempt. 

“I came up one shot short of the playoffs in the first National Championship,” he said. “I’ve met great people here and made so many great memories. This is my favorite junior golf event, and it feels like I came full circle in my final chance to win at the same golf course where I fell just short.” 

Both winners were awarded with the Tattersall Cup in honor of event chairman Fred Tattersall.  

Two players were also awarded exemptions to the 2024 PURE Insurance Championship. As First Tee juniors can only play in the PURE Insurance Championship once, this year’s exemptions went to Gianna Singh from First Tee – Greater Sacramento and Spencer Ives from First Tee – Naples/Collier. The tournament will be broadcast on Golf Channel, Sept. 20-22. 

Based on their play at the First Tee National Championship, two players will also earn spots in the PGA TOUR’s Pathways to Progression program, which aims to support talented golfers from backgrounds that are traditionally underrepresented in the sport. The PGA TOUR will announce the full roster for its Pathways program, including the two players who earned their spots at the First Tee National Championship, in the coming days.

“Congratulations to all of our participants in the field and especially to Trent and Norah for an outstanding performance in becoming the 2024 First Tee National Champions,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “This event plays an important role in helping these young people prepare for the next level. We are extremely proud of this event and of the teens who work hard on their game all year preparing. Thank you to Clemson University for hosting for the second time, we look forward to coming back again.”  

The First Tee National Championship is held annually at various college golf courses around the nation, providing First Tee participants the opportunity to network with others from across the country. Next year’s event will take place at Notre Dame University. 
  
The field included 24 boys and 24 girls, ages 14-18, who were selected based on their golf skills and competitive golf experience. A full list of results is available here.  
  
The National Championship is one of more than 10 national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters to empower and motivate teens as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities.  

First Tee returns to Clemson for 4th annual National Championship 

For the first time, this year’s tournament will be streamed on Gamekast with live scoring available on Golf Genius. 

Clemson, South Carolina – (June 21, 2024) – The Walker Course at Clemson University will host the First Tee National Championship next week, June 25-27, 2024, bringing together 48 of the organization’s top golfers for a 54-hole event designed to showcase how the program has helped them build the skills, positive attitude and perseverance needed to play collegiate golf. 

The field includes 24 boys and 24 girls, ages 14-18, who were selected based on their golf skills and competitive golf experience. Fourteen players in the field have already committed to college golf teams. First Tee held its inaugural National Championship at Clemson in 2021 and all six of the past winners are members of college golf teams. That includes 2023 winner Megan Meng of First Tee – Greater Trenton, who’s in the Top 10 in the AJGA Rankings and will begin her collegiate career at Northwestern this fall. 

In advance of this year’s competition, the event will feature a keynote address by First Tee – Greater Richmond alumnus Gavin Parker, PGA, who shares his love for the sport on his popular social media channels. Participants will also attend a careers in golf panel to learn more about working in the industry. 

“First Tee continues to play an important role in the development of teens, both on and off the course,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “Our National Championship is an opportunity for participants who want to take their game to the next level to showcase their skills. The week provides them with competition and an enriching opportunity to get them ready for playing in college and beyond.” 

For the first time, viewers can stream the First Tee National Championship on Gamekast. Scoring will also be available on Golf Genius. 

In addition to crowning a male and female tournament winner, one boy and one girl from the field will be awarded spots in the PGA TOUR’s Pathways to Progression program, a player development program that aims to achieve greater diversity in golf through an increased focus on developing talent from diverse and historically underrepresented groups.  

First Tee – Greater Austin’s Danica Lundgren earned a spot in the Pathways program at last year’s National Championship, held at Stanford University. She’s back in the tournament field this year before joining the Nebraska Cornhuskers women’s golf team this fall. 

Two exemptions to this year’s PURE Insurance Championship will also be up for grabs. The PGA TOUR Champions event pairs pro and junior players for a week of competition and mentorship at Pebble Beach each September. 

The First Tee National Championship is held annually at various college campuses around the nation, providing First Tee participants the opportunity to network with others from across the country and take in the college experience. Next year’s event will take place at the University of Notre Dame. 

The Championship is one of more than 10 national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters to empower and motivate teens as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities. For more information on the tournament and First Tee, visit www.firsttee.org.  

View the full list of selected participants here.