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.