Volunteer Spotlight: Derek Klootwyk

Hailing from Miami, Florida, Derek’s journey spans from excelling in high school baseball and football to volunteering at Shea Stadium in the aftermath of the September 11th attacks.

Witnessing the military buildup in the Middle East while working as a stockbroker, he felt a profound calling to enlist in the U.S. Army, dedicating over 18 years to Special Operations in some of the world’s most dangerous regions.

Amidst the chaos, a newfound passion for golf emerged just three years ago, leading to a commitment of playing three times a week. Beyond personal enjoyment, he extended his love for the game by volunteering as a coach for First Tee – Sandhills and a girls’ high school team over the past year and a half, contributing to the growth of young golf enthusiasts. Derek’s profound love for the game of golf transcends personal boundaries into acts of community service and inspiration.

“My favorite moment while coaching at First Tee – Sandhills had to have been while working a goal post drill on the range. One of the players was having difficulty making good contact, let alone getting it through the goal posts we had set up. But, with some extra encouragement from the other players, he was able to knock it through. The smile on his face and the loud cheering and emotion from his friends, is a moment I will never forget.”

Look for Derek this Spring at First Tee – Sandhills Programs at Gates Four Golf & CC and Stryker Golf Course.

Thanks Coach Derek for your commitment to Building Game Changers.

Coach Enya Alaan loves how First Tee focuses ‘on the whole person’

Eyna Alaan’s favorite part of coaching at First Tee – Greater Pasadena is collaborating with her colleagues to make classes fun for kids.

“I love working with the other coaches to create games,” she said. Eyna has been coaching since 2015, and in that time, she’s gotten to see participants grow and evolve. “It’s just been amazing to see these kids progress. It’s like I’ve been there from the beginning,” she said.

Eyna herself was fresh out of high school when she began coaching at First Tee – Greater Pasadena. She was playing golf at Glendale Community College where her coach was involved with the First Tee chapter and told her about the program.

“When I was growing up, I went to golf academy where it felt like golf was everything,” she said. “If you weren’t one of the best players, you fell by the weigh side. When I started teaching at First Tee and I was learning about the curriculum, I just thought it was great that it focused on the whole person – not just their golf skills.”

Eyna has advanced to First Tee’s Level 3 coach training, which she attended last year in Portland. “A lot of people say patience is the key to coaching, but I think empathy is really important. Kids at different ages are in different places. They may not be able to grasp certain concepts yet, but you still need to be able to connect with them.”

Eyna was born in the Philippines and moved to Southern California when she was 5. Her dad encouraged her to play golf, a sport he took up to bond with his older brothers. 

Eyna’s sister attended Morehead State University on a golf scholarship and is working toward her LPGA certification. “It just really tickles my dad,” she said. “He always brags to my family. He’s so proud to have daughters that work in golf.”

Being a young female coach sometimes helps Eyna connect with participants. “There are sometimes those classes with one or two girls, and immediately they’re a little intimidated,” she said. “In high school, I had to play on boys’ team, and I didn’t have any female teammates until I was a senior and my sister joined the team as a freshman. I understand how they’re feeling, and I want to help them build confidence.”

Learn more about coaching with First Tee.

Feel confident on your first trips to the golf course 

At First Tee, we believe golf is for everyone, but the sport can feel intimidating, especially for families who are new to it. That’s why it’s important to remember, golf is meant to be fun, according to Ali Miller, senior manager of programs training at First Tee.  

Miller grew up learning the game at First Tee – Quad Cities before playing collegiate golf and joining the staff at First Tee headquarters. She played an important role in developing First Tee’s updated curriculum, which was rolled out in 2023. It uses fun golf activities to teach life skills and help kids uncover their values. 

As someone who’s spent lots of time on golf courses – and even trains First Tee coaches – here is her take on the rules of golf. 

Q: How does understanding the basic rules of golf make the sport safer and more enjoyable? 

A: Knowing the basics makes golf more enjoyable because it’s a little less intimidating when you feel like you know what’s going on. In golf there are written and unwritten rules. The best way to get comfortable is to be around the game, be on the golf course and play with people who are more experienced – like a First Tee coach, or an older participant in the program. Some rules are also important for golf course safety, like out of bounds. It usually indicates areas you don’t want to go, and it’s safer to avoid them.  

It takes exposure to the game to get comfortable with the official rules, however the sport can be enjoyed using intuitive etiquette, like taking turns and not distracting people when they are swinging. At First Tee we believe it’s so important that the rules of golf aren’t a barrier to entry. Remember most people are happy to help guide you or your child, whether it’s a First Tee coach, a PGA or LPGA professional or golf course staff. Most golfers can remember a time they didn’t know a rule, and someone helped them, so they want to pay it forward. 

Interestingly enough, many of the rules are designed to help level the playing field and allow for people with different abilities to still enjoy playing and competing together.  

Q: How do you balance having fun when you’re learning a new game? 

A: Golf is a very social game. The fun part is being outside and walking and talking with your friends – and hopefully hitting some good shots along the way. I would focus on that aspect when your child is starting out. If they’re out there playing with friends, they should be having fun while also learning about the game and understanding the rules as they spend more time with the sport. If they make a mistake on the rules, it’s not a big issue.  

We invite parents to become familiar with scoring basics – like in any sport – as we encourage it for all age groups. Of course, some younger players might not be able to do it on their own and that’s OK too. Additionally, First Tee coaches are trained to coach different ages, and we recommend shorter holes for younger kids. For example, for kids under 9, we suggest 25 yards for a Par 3 or 50 yards for a Par 4, which just means teeing off a little further down the fairway. These kinds of adaptations help kids enjoy the game. 

If you’ve ever played golf, you know it’s tough if you take it or yourself too seriously! It takes lots of work to become a scratch golfer, and new golfers shouldn’t compare themselves to experienced players. That’s where the concept of Personal Par comes in. We encourage kids to focus on achieving their personal best, which helps them stay positive. Golf – like life – is a journey.  

If your child advances or wants to play competitively, there’s always someone around to help. It can feel intimidating to ask, but that’s what rules officials and tournament staff are there for. It’s funny, when I was playing competitively, my dad didn’t know the rules well, and he always thought I scored way better than I did. But I just remember he was out there supporting me, and that was the important thing. 

Q: What should new golfers know? 

A: In a perfect world, you or your child should try to be on time for a tee time. It’s an unwritten rule that you should aim to be 10 minutes early. It helps you calm the nerves on the first tee and obviously is considerate to other golfers. 

Other rules that come up often include out-of-bounds and losing your ball. In these cases, you can typically either take a one-stroke penalty and retry the shot or take a two-stroke penalty and play from the edge of the fairway near where your ball landed. Try not to play someone else’s ball, which is why you’ll see professional players put markings on their golf balls to identify them. First Tee’s app has great, kid-friendly helpful lessons on many of these rules. 

That said, I think new golfers should know we’ve all been in their shoes. So our primary rule at First Tee is have fun and be safe. Be yourself and don’t be afraid to ask questions. We want you to be on the course! 

Q: You just alluded to the fact that golf courses are shared spaces. How does following the rules help ensure everyone enjoys their round? 

A: Most golf courses will indicate the pace at which they expect golfers to finish 9 or 18 holes. Keeping up that pace and following out-of-bounds rules are important to ensure everyone has a fun and safe round. A lot of golf courses have homes on them, so out-of-bounds rules can protect golfers and homeowners.  

For new golfers, it can feel intimidating to have a fast group right behind you. The etiquette here would be to pause and let them play through. 

Q: What should you do if you make a mistake? 

A: First, remember it’s normal and OK. If you’re playing with friends, own up to it and learn from it. If you’re playing in a tournament, there can be other consequences, but in most cases, golfers are given an opportunity to fix their mistakes.  

The USGA is a Founding Partner of First Tee and they publish a rulebook each year and even offers a junior version in comic book form.  

Q: How can learning the rules of golf help a child off the course? 

A: Golf is a lot like life, right? Sometimes you need to ask for help. At First Tee, we believe mentorship is a powerful tool, and we hope our participants have coaches they can turn to on and off the golf course. On the golf course, there are usually officials around, but it’s a big place. Sometimes you might need to call a penalty on yourself, take responsibility and record your score accurately. 

Having to react to unexpected situations or recover their composure after a bad shot on the golf course can prepare kids to do the same in life. Golf is a fun and engaging activity that provides challenges, requires commitment and effort over time, but is so worth it. It’s a lifelong sport available for people with all abilities.  Learn more about how to get involved. 

February at MCLI: All Things North Moore

Earlier this year, Coach Riley was accepted into the Moore County Leadership Institute (MCLI) and we promised a monthly recap of each of his new experiences. If you aren’t caught up, click here to learn about this adventure!

After participating in a two-day retreat in January, February would be the MCLI teams first day trip. This month, visiting North Moore. Riley was eager to share his findings when returning back to First Tee – Sandhills. Take a moment to hear what they learned and discovered in Robbins.

“We started the day at Robbins Fire Department with a presentation about the history of Robbins by the Town Manager, Clint Mack. The presentation really focused on the ups and downs of Robbins throughout the years as they continuously fluctuated between a bustling hub of industry, and on the verge of economic collapse. It really showed the resiliency of the people of the town worked through the hard times to live life in the good. After presenting the history, he went into a little more on the modern day issues that Robbins is currently facing and the steps they are taking to solve them. There are three major things they will be tackling. First is updating their water infrastructure; Second is renovating old shop-faces to start driving up business within the community; and Third is working on what will drive people to come to Robbins. After this, we took a small tour of the town and were shown the storefronts that are being renovated throughout Robbins.”

“Later we visited Misty Morning Ranch where we learned about what it takes to run an Ostrich Farm. The owners Ryan and Rich (who is also in MCLI), discussed the challenges they had to overcome, especially with ostrich farming being a “newer” concept where best practices are ever changing. Ryan is on the forefront of innovation when it comes to raising ostriches, especially in decreasing the overall Ostrich chick fatality rate, which on a national level sits at about 65%, he has managed to drop his down to 18% with a few changes in the way he houses them as they grow through those vital couple months. He went on to discuss future plans they have, from increasing their farm and processable ostriches to opening their own processing plant in NC where all forms of red meat may be processed.”

“Overall, learning the hardships that both the community and the Ostrich farm have overcome as they both continue to grow while navigating challenges, was impressive. For a small community, they are highly resilient and it’s a side of Moore County you don’t get to see enough. I am excited to see Robbins flourish.”

Next stop in the MCLI program will be March 13 to County Services.

First Tee alumnus Kelly Allen is making an impact as a collegiate coach 

Golf has always been part of Kelly Allen’s life. “I’ve had a club in my hand since I was 2. I still have that little cut down 2 iron somewhere,” he said. 

Kelly joined First Tee – North Florida at 7 years old, and at 12, he decided to give up football and baseball to focus on golf. His choice coincided with the 2005 Masters, when Tiger Woods famously chipped in from the rough on 16 before going on to win in a playoff. Kelly remembers going crazy in his living room.  

“It was just super exciting what he was doing for the game, and I wanted a piece of it,” he said. 

As a teenager, Kelly traveled to a variety of First Tee national opportunities and earned the chance to play twice at the PURE Insurance Championship at Pebble Beach, which became his favorite golf course.  

“I made a bunch of friends across the country through First Tee,” he said. “I had unforgettable experiences and received timeless benefits. First Tee shows you that golf is much more than swinging a club and hitting a ball. It’s networking, seeing the world and building character.” 

Kelly is a Jacksonville, Florida, native and began his college career at Johnson & Wales before transferring to Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina. The decision was largely driven by golf, but ultimately, Kelly said he’s glad he experienced attending an HBCU.  

“Being a part of a team culture, especially in golf, it’s very unique because unless you’re playing for a Ryder Cup or something like that, you don’t get that very often,” he said. “I enjoyed the comradery and the bond with my teammates. That whole idea of us against the world was the best part of it.” His team won the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Championship in 2015. Kelly was also crowned the overall champion. 

Kelly has played golf across the country, but Brentwood Golf Course in Jacksonville is where he learned the game and still the place he calls home. The facility played an important role in the city’s civil rights history, when a group of Black golfers showed up to play there on a Tuesday. At the time, Black golfers were only allowed to play Brentwood on Mondays. They launched a legal battle that ultimately led to the desegregation of public recreation facilities in the area. 

Kelly was working at Brentwood when he learned about an exciting new opportunity. With support from THE PLAYERS, Edward Waters College, the oldest HBCU in Florida, was launching a women’s golf team and needed a coach.   

“It just made so much sense to pursue because Edward Waters is in the middle of the neighborhood where I grew up,” Kelly said. “Growing up I seen a lot of life get lost to the streets. I see this program as a great way to serve my community put some life back into it.” 

Kelly is passionate about building a winning culture at Edward Waters, and he’s learned a lot about coaching. “I realized quickly that this job isn’t just about golf. It’s about leading and nurturing young women” he said. “Each girl is facing her own unique set of challenges on and off the course. As a coach, you have to be able to help them navigate through it.  Some are away from home and their families for the first time. The coach is their advocate while they are here on campus.” 

Not only does Kelly coach his players on the course, but he also manages recruiting, tournament registrations, ordering uniforms, booking travel, planning practice schedules, player development and more. “It has been very challenging but that’s the reason I love it,” he said. “It’ll be that much more satisfying when we reach our goals.” 

In addition to his busy schedule as a coach, Kelly has his own brand called Golf By Kelly, which is all about bringing eccentric style to golf.  

The importance of embracing differences and different experiences 

February is Black History Month, an important time to recognize the contributions and remember the hardships endured by generations of African Americans. Appreciating diversity and what makes us each unique remains an integral part of First Tee’s DNA year-round.  

“When you bring together people with different perspectives and different experiences, the whole becomes stronger than the sum of its parts,” said Pepper Peete, whose career in golf began more than two decades ago when she established the men’s team at Edward Waters College, an HBCU in Jacksonville, Florida. Peete now helps lead culture and inclusion efforts at First Tee headquarters. 

Access for All 

First Tee has always been committed to reaching kids from all backgrounds and making sure they feel included in our programming. At First Tee we commit to: 

  • Appreciating what makes us different. 
  • Providing everyone ​with what they need ​to succeed, knowing that our needs and challenges may differ. 
  • Creating space that makes every individual feel like they belong and can see themselves reflected.​ 

Collaborating with others – including those who are different from you – is a Key Commitment at First Tee, and it means showing respect, kindness and care for everyone. Regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, ability, sexual orientation or lived experience, we’re all unique.  

Here are some ways kids can get more comfortable learning about and from others. 

A-L-R is a tool for learning about others 

First Tee coaches introduce the concept of appreciating diversity by explaining that people differ in many ways and are similar in other ways, and we all have strengths and weaknesses. It is important for kids and teens to understand, accept and appreciate their own strengths and weaknesses, but it is equally important they do the same with others. 

Engaging others in conversation doesn’t always come naturally to children, but it can be one of the best ways to form meaningful connections across perceived barriers. A-L-R is a strategy we teach at First Tee. 

  • Ask questions: Invite your child to ask questions to discover more about a person’s background and past experiences, which might provide insight into who they are today and the commonalities they share. 
  • Listen to understand: Introduce active listening by encouraging your child to focus on what others are saying rather than thinking about what to say next. 
  • Reflect and respond: Invite your child to show how they were listening by responding with a thoughtful question or sharing your own thoughts or feelings on the topic at hand.  

Through this exercise, kids might learn they share common interests with someone who looks or sounds different to them. 

Don’t forget that in addition to learning about others, preteens are often grappling with and discovering their own identities. If your family positions diversity as an asset, your child might feel more comfortable being themself.  

Exposing your child to food, music or books from other cultures can help them see the commonalities we share and appreciate that our differences make the world a richer place. You can also discuss the diversity that exists within your own family or community to show that diversity is everywhere, including the golf space. 

“Golf has given me an opportunity to go places I never would have been able to go and meet people I never would have been able to meet,” said Peete, who was married to Calvin Peete, one of the most successful Black professional golfers in history. “I think golf can open up unexpected doors.” 

A lifelong golfer and mother to two daughters who played golf at HBCUs, Peete has seen the sport become more accessible, especially to women, and she believes the golf course is a perfect place to break down barriers. “You get to meet so many different people through golf,” Peete said. 

Ace alumna Jolie Venable is giving back to her new hometown 

From walking scoring to standard bearer to parking and transportation, Jolie Venable has volunteered in just about every role at Korn Ferry Tour events – including the Simmons Bank Open, the Visit Knoxville Open and the Korn Ferry Tour Championship. 

The First Tee – Tennessee alumna and Ace graduate got involved with the Tour through her First Tee chapter and made the most of the opportunity. “I’ve really enjoyed all the different jobs I’ve done at tournaments,” she said. 

Jolie began participating in First Tee when she was 9 and said it was the coaches who kept her engaged with the program, “They’re very enthusiastic, caring and passionate about getting kids into golf, especially girls who don’t necessarily feel like they have a place in the sport.” 

Jolie stuck with First Tee as she got older, eventually joining the Ace Program, its capstone program for high schoolers. Ace is designed to help teens game-plan for the future by encouraging them to explore their passions on and off the golf course. Ace participants complete four projects focused on education, career preparation, golf and community service. 

The community service piece was Jolie’s favorite part, she said. Not only did she volunteer at tournaments, but she jumped into new opportunities when her family moved to Panama City, Florida, about three years ago. 

Jolie asked around about a local First Tee chapter after the move but learned there was no programming in the area after Hurricane Michael devastated the region in 2018. But she happened to be volunteering at a golf event with veterans last year when she overheard a fateful conversation. 

“We were at Bay Point Golf Course, and I overheard Tommy Cooley come in and mention First Tee.  I popped my head in and asked the manager about the conversation, and it turns out Tommy was trying to get First Tee started there,” Jolie said. “I got in contact with Tommy, who had brought Nature Walk Golf Course on board, and he offered me a position.” 

Now a First Tee alumna, Jolie is lead coach at First Tee – Gulf Coast’s Panama City program location. She recruits new coaches and teaches kids. “I just love seeing the kids light up when they see something new,” she said. 

In addition to her work, Jolie is studying physical therapy. “Around fourth grade, I was diagnosed with hearing loss in my right ear, and I got really interested in the medical field. I really love helping people, and this will give me an opportunity to work with other athletes,” she explained. She’s also launching a nonprofit that will provide hearing devices for families who can’t afford them. 

First Tee – Gulf Coast now serves kids from South Alabama through Panama City. “Golf has given so much to me, and I am delighted the same opportunities will be provided to future generations in Bay County,” Cooley said. 

Learn more about the Ace Program. 

Unveiling New Horizons: Coach Riley’s Journey with the Moore County Leadership Institute (MCLI)

Embarking on a transformative journey, one of our very own, Riley Burns, has been accepted into the esteemed Moore County Leadership Institute (MCLI) – a program designed to cultivate and empower local business professionals into influential leaders within Moore County.

Riley grew up in Northeastern CT in a quaint little town called Brooklyn. He lived there from the day he was born until 2019 when he then moved to North Carolina to be closer to his wife’s parents while experiences new opportunities. “First Tee was a happy accident, I was in between jobs at the time and my wife worked for one of the board members who suggested I volunteer because I enjoy both golf and working with kids.” said Riley.

From his first interview, Riley was in love with the program at First Tee. “As I continued to learn what it was that First Tee stood for, I became completely bought in. Getting into the MCLI is a huge milestone in my continued journey for personal growth. As I continue to develop into my role as the Program Operations Coordinator at First Tee – Sandhills, one of my top goals for 2024 is to further improve my skills as a leader. The MCLI was brought to my attention as a potential avenue for growth and after doing some research, I quickly began the process of applying. I am most looking forward to the opportunity to meet and talk to leaders within the community to cultivate firstly what my leadership style is going to be and then to develop into it.” Riley stated.

Riley’s acceptance into the MCLI is not just a personal achievement but a commitment to the community. The program’s comprehensive training equips individuals with knowledge and understanding, fostering the development of key leaders. Graduates emerge not only more knowledgeable but also better prepared to make crucial decisions that impact their organizations, the community, and themselves.

Throughout the MCLI program, participants, including Riley, undergo a transformative journey focusing on various aspects of leadership. The curriculum goes beyond traditional concepts, diving into self-awareness, empathy, vision, passion, balance, volunteerism, and community leadership. These essential qualities not only enhance professional capabilities but also contribute to the broader development of the community.

We look forward to seeing what Riley accomplishes throughout his time with MCLI, and we will be reporting back here to share the updates with you all!

Congratulations, Riley!

Help your teen feel confident in 2024 

Many people set New Year’s resolutions in January. The process requires them to consider aspects of their lives or themselves they’d like to change. While self-reflection can be a healthy process, it might add stress for teens, who already experience a growing number of external pressures. 

Kristin Westberg is director of curriculum and education at First Tee, and she acknowledges that adolescence can be a tough time for kids and parents. “The reality is that teenage years are filled with change: physical changes and hormonal shifts, changing relationships with family and friends, as well as social challenges at school,” she said. 

Perhaps given the filtered content that’s so common on social media – where teens spend an average of more than three hours per day – there’s also evidence to show many teens try to minimize the challenges they’re facing. Seventy percent of teens say they can’t stop worrying when something goes wrong, with 67% of teens saying they try to prevent others from finding out about the problem. 

“Combine this with new responsibilities and expectations that come with growing older as well as peer pressure, all of this can affect a teenager’s confidence,” Westberg said. But there are ways parents can help. 

Adolescence can be an uncertain time 

Westberg said teens are typically trying to resolve three big questions:  

  • Who Am I?  
  • How do I feel about myself? 
  • Will I be ok in my future?  

Those questions can be a lot for anyone to tackle, but especially for high schoolers, who may also be coping with increasing levels of anxiety, academic pressure and stress. That’s why it’s important for parents to focus on the process instead of the outcome and make room for failure as a first attempt in learning, Westberg said. 

While every parent wants their teen to succeed, sometimes the journey is equally or more important to their overall development. “Learning to demonstrate responsibility, honesty and resilience will help your teen apply those behaviors in the future, and they’ll be more likely to try new things and less likely to shy away from challenges,” Westberg said. 

Parents can also bolster their teens’ self-esteem by providing reassurance, even if everything doesn’t go right. “Be a safe space for your teen to process their thoughts and discuss challenges,” Westberg said. “Remind them of what they have achieved and what they are capable of. Sometimes they just need to know that you believe in them, no matter the outcome.” 

Don’t give up on getting through to your teen 

Sometimes it may feel like your teen is shutting you out or doesn’t value your opinion, but it’s important to remember that parents are crucial when it comes to providing support at a time when their teen might be experiencing lots of changes, Westberg said. 

“It’s easy to want to solve all of your teen’s problems or tell them what they should do,” she said. “Afterall, parents were teens themselves once and have learned a lot along the way. It can be frustrating to feel shut out, but real connection with your teen starts with listening.” 

It might come as a surprise, but research shows that most teens think highly of their parents and want to spend time with them, so keep trying to connect. 

The importance of service 

A study published last year by researchers at the University of Texas shows adolescents who volunteer in their communities are less likely to experience anxiety or behavioral issues and more likely to be very healthy. 

Those are just a few reasons you may want to talk to your child or teen about giving back in 2024. 

“Engaging in service has been linked to increased overall happiness and higher self-esteem, but I think having a greater perspective and empathy towards others are the most intrinsic benefits,” said Robbie Lowman, who oversees the First Tee College Scholarship Program and has worked in financial aid for more than a decade. 

It’s no secret that volunteer work can bolster a college admissions or scholarship application. 

“Service can demonstrate an applicant’s ability to take initiative, organize events and lead projects while showing signs of growth, resilience and adaptability,” Lowman said. But Lowman warned community service isn’t just a box to check on college applications. “It is a meaningful aspect of a student’s personal and academic journey. It reflects their values, character and commitment to making a positive difference in the world.” 

Encourage your child to find a project they’re passionate about 

There are many ways for kids and teens to get involved in their communities depending on their passions and interests. Nancy Rivera is a Scholar from First Tee – Silicon Valley and student at Middlebury College in Vermont. While in high school, she saw that Latinx members of her community needed support, so she started a Latinx club at her school, volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, hosted food drives and even worked with a district councilmember to host college admissions classes for DREAM Act students and families. 

“When we received her First Tee College Scholarship Program application, her community service record showed us that she is willing to collaborate with others, make sacrifices to strengthen her community and is not afraid to follow her values into important projects,” Lowman said. 

Rivera wants to be the voice for Latinx families who have limited representation. With her community service accomplishments, that goal doesn’t sound far out of reach. 

Giving back to the community has so many benefits that Lowman and his team prioritize it during annual professional development events for First Tee Scholars. For example, the group has hosted a beach cleanup and packed school supplies for students at a Title I school. The projects promote teamwork and collaboration, Lowman explained. 

Helping your child identify their personal values 

There are many ways to serve others, but community service typically has the greatest impact when it connects back to your personal values. As you discuss volunteering with your child, consider starting with these questions: 

  • What in life is important to you? 
  • How do you know that something is important to you? 
  • What does it show about your values when you say one thing but do another? 

If your child values academic success, they could volunteer as a tutor. Or if health and wellness is important to them, perhaps they could coach younger kids in sports. Once you’ve helped your child determine their personal values, that’s a good starting point for getting involved. 

If your teen is a First Tee participant, we encourage you to learn more about Innovators Forum a national opportunity focused on giving back. During the annual event, which will take place in Phoenix this November, a team of expert facilitators helps each participant develop a community service project to implement at home.  

Addison Bidoli attends 2023 First Tee Innovators Forum

Addison, a 9th Grader at Jack Britt HS in Fayetteville, was selected as one of 28 teens nationwide to attend the First Tee Innovators Forum in Jacksonville, Florida this November.

This was Addison’s first National Participant Opportunity selection.

The forum equips and empowers First Tee teens to develop a meaningful service project in their communities focused on education, health, human rights, or environmental sustainability. Addison learned from industry leaders through interactive workshops and small group breakout sessions with fellow teens who share a similar desire for learning and generating changes in their communities. Upon return home, she will utilize a timeline, strategic goals and a budget to develop and execute a community service project.

Day 1 Recap

On Thursday, I said goodbye to my parents at the airport and boarded my plane to Jacksonville, Florida. My nervousness of flying alone for the first time was overshadowed by my excitement for the weekend. 

When I arrived in Florida, there was a chaperone waiting to take me and a couple other participants to the hotel. I was able to meet and mingle with the other teens while we waited for everyone to arrive. I was a little hesitant at first, but everyone was so nice and welcoming. 

Shortly after, we made our way over to the PGA Tour Headquarters where Billy Horschel spoke about his experience creating a non-profit organization. A surprise guest stopped by halfway through. Her name was Susan King and she was the CEO of Feeding Northeast Florida. She, too, spoke about her experiences as an industry leader. Both speakers allowed us to ask questions and gave many great pieces of information and advice. 

Our final activity for the evening was a comedy show. We got to see three comedians perform. Instead of just telling jokes, they were very interactive with the crowd and included us often. There were many laughs and it was a great way to end the long day. 

We headed back to the hotel for an Italian dinner and talked about the schedule for the rest of the weekend. The hotel had a patio area with a fire pit, so after dinner, we all headed out there to hang out and talk. It was probably my favorite part of the day. I was able to get to know the other teens better and hear their experiences with First Tee. I was surprised how similar some of our experiences were even though we all came from different chapters around the country. 

Although we were all having a great time, everyone was pretty tired and decided to head to bed early to prepare for the long day tomorrow. I couldn’t wait to see what was in store for the next day. 

Day 2 Recap

The day is Friday, and let me tell you, it turned out to be one of the most unexpectedly amazing days. Starting bright and early and heading to the beach to catch the sunrise, I knew the day was going to be something special.

After seeing the sunrise, we headed to Panera for breakfast. There’s just something about bagels and coffee that sets the tone for a great day. After breakfast, we returned to the PGA Tour HQ, where we were treated to a talk by a First Tee alumni, Hannah Rens. She shared her journey from volunteering to her current projects in aerospace engineering (WOW)! Hearing about her accomplishments and the obstacles she faced was beyond inspiring. 

But the inspiration didn’t stop there. 

Dr. Ted France joined us, offering us great advice and insights. He talked about our ongoing projects and emphasized the power of teamwork. It was amazing to hear from someone so accomplished and passionate.

After a quick break, we hopped on a bus to St. Augustine. The highlight of the afternoon was a catamaran ride, complete with unlimited snacks and drinks.The view was breathtaking, and Kyanna Tamborini shared her captivating journey in marine biology. 

When we got back at the TPC Sawgrass media center shortly after, the day took a creative turn. We split into groups and crafted steps to being a leader, turning them into our own poems. It was a unique approach, and I loved how it allowed us to express our thoughts in a creative way. Being able to mingle amongst ourselves and meet new people, we also made a ton of new friends along the way. We even talked about possibly visiting one another in different states in the future! One of the best parts about this experience was getting to make new friends from all different age ranges throughout the different high schools involved.

As the sun began to set, we started planning and brainstorming for our projects. It felt like we were on the brink of something incredible, we all were excited about our ideas.

The day concluded with dinner at the TPC Sawgrass clubhouse. Dining in that fancy restaurant was the perfect ending to a great day. 

Today was more than just a Friday; it was a chapter in my First Tee journey that I’ll carry with me forever in the years to come! 

Day 3 Recap

My Saturday morning kicked off with a visit from two amazing professionals, Crystal Harris and Morgan Wiesner, from the CapTech company. Their energy was fantastic, and they shared insights on problem-solving and unleashing creativity. As a little bonus, they handed out small gifts that added an extra dose of excitement to our day. Then we had an activity focused on brainstorming ideas to enhance teen retention within the First Tee. 

Following the brainstorming, was some delicious Mexican food. Nothing like a good meal to fuel the mind!

In the afternoon, Dr. Ted returned, and together, we brainstormed our very own ‘Go-To Team.’ It was fun to witness the mix of talents and ideas coming together. We then translated our brainstormed ideas into a poster, outlining our plan and a timeline for execution. After the intense planning session, we were treated to a stroll around the breathtaking clubhouse. The view was nothing short of amazing.

The evening kicked off with a hearty BBQ dinner, where we made our way to the beach, where a bonfire and s’mores awaited. After the fire, we were back at the hotel, facing a pivotal decision. The chaperones threw out the idea of an all-nighter, and, well, who were we to turn down an opportunity for more memories? We hung out in the common room, playing games, talking, and laughing. I can confidently say it was worth every yawn for the fun times we all shared this week.

As I finally hit the pillow, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experiences of the day. The First Tee Innovators Forum had become more than just an event; it was a memory that will stay with me forever. The experience and knowledge I gained has made me excited to start my service project immediately! My hopes are to provide feminine products to teens who can’t afford or have no access to obtain them through a feminine product drive. First Tee has given me more than I ever expected and I am honored to serve my community in return. Thank you First Tee for the incredible opportunity, lifelong friendships and the invaluable knowledge. I am anxiously awaiting to apply for the opportunities in 2024! 

The RSM Classic marks Jim Ruger’s 10th anniversary as a First Tee coach

Brunswick is a beautiful place on Georgia’s historic coastal plain, but it’s not a big city. In a small community like Brunswick, it’s pretty easy to stay informed, said Jim Ruger, a coach at First Tee – Golden Isles. 

“About a month ago in the local newspaper, I saw a photo of a high school girl. I knew her from participating in our chapter through the Boys & Girls Club”, he said. “She had no golf experience, but made a sincere effort at golf and to learn the First Tee’s core values. The caption to the photo stated she earned a partial scholarship and plans to attend Mercer University and become an OBGYN.”

It’s stories like that – “and she’s not the only one that comes to mind,” Ruger said – along with the dedicated staff at First Tee – Golden Isles that have kept him engaged with the organization for a decade.

Ruger’s dad got him into golf when he was just a kid, and his passion for the sport grew when he moved from Cincinnati in 1998 to work as a legal instructor at Glynco, a federal law enforcement training facility in southeast Georgia, an area also known for its spectacular golf courses. First Tee – Golden Isles presents after school and weekend programs at many of these golf courses.

In fact, the eyes of the golf world will be on nearby Sea Island this week for The RSM Classic, a PGA TOUR event. During this week’s tournament, First Tee – Golden Isles will be operating the Youth Zone, featuring putting, inflatables and an autograph area.

Back in 2013, when First Tee – Golden Isles was just launching, the tournament played an important role in bringing Ruger into First Tee’s fold.  The RSM’s organizer, the Davis Love Foundation, reached out to tournament volunteers to see if they might be interested in getting involved with a new First Tee chapter.

Ruger had just retired and wanted to volunteer with kids. He’s since gone on to attend Level 1 coach training and more recently Level 2 coach training in Augusta. “It was really great to spend three days with coaches from other chapters to learn and share ideas,” he said.

For Ruger, the best moments as a coach often come when he’s working with a participant on a particular aspect of their game, and he starts to see them demonstrating the values they’ve learned at First Tee. And he enjoys the enthusiasm they bring to any type of competition, he said.

“Each summer, our chapter presents programs at several Boys & Girls Clubs around the county where we’ll set up nets, targets and putting greens in the gym and give them golf instruction,” he said. “At the end of the summer, each club sends four kids to a local golf club for Drive, Chip and Putt competition. They really seem to enjoy that,” he said.

“Our more experienced golfers play on a team we sponsor in the PGA Jr. League. In addition, our chapter partners with local school districts in middle school golf leagues. This gives our kids the opportunity to advance from beginner to more experienced golfers. Most rewarding, several of our participants who are now in high school volunteer coaching our youngest golfers.”

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