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! 

November 2023 Participant Spotlight

Seven year old, Nova enjoys being involved in many activities and sports, including swimming, horseback riding, tennis, and most recently, golf. Nova joined our program for the first this season and has grown immensely since the beginning of classes. Her knowledge of the First Tee curriculum could rival any coaches’. She always participates in conversations, respects her coaches and fellow teammates, and encourages all participants! Nova is a friend to all and brings exciting, fun energy to every class. In her spare time, Nova enjoys writing stories, reading and playing with her sister, Vega and two cats.

“Nova shows up to every class with a smile on her face. She puts 100% into everything she tries and never gives up. Regardless of who she is partnered with, she is encouraging and offers suggestions and tips to help her teammate be successful. She has been an absolute joy to have in class! I am excited to see her continue to grow in our program and represent First Tee in the community,” said Coach Jacie Newman

October 2023 Participant Spotlight

Five year old Beckett, began playing golf with his father. To build upon his skills and make new friends, he joined the First Tee program at Campbell House. Beckett loves coming to class and playing all the fun games each week! As someone who plays other sports besides golf, Beckett knows the importance of sportsmanship and cheering on his teammates. No matter what game he is playing, he always has a positive attitude and encourages his friends to try their best and never give up! Beckett also enjoys playing soccer, watching football with his dad, and making his little brother laugh.

“It is Beckett Morton’s first time with First Tee, but you wouldn’t know it. He is mixing in well with team members, congratulating them when a good shot is made and participating in all activities. He intensely listens to coaches and follows instructions. Beckett is very respectful to his team members, equipment and coaches. In watching him the past few weeks, he has amazing potential for becoming a wonderful young man with anything he takes on in life,” says Coach CJ Buck.

October 2023 Participant Spotlight

Madelyn, known by her coaches and friends as Madie, began participating with First Tee in the spring! Although Madie has only participated for three seasons, she has already grown tremendously in her character, alongside her golf game. Madie shows up to every class with a smile on her face and a positive attitude. She encourages her teammates and is always willing to offer a helping hand. Beyond golf, Madie enjoys playing soccer, building Legos and anything related to Star Wars. She also helps take care of her boxer, Tommy!

“Madie is so happy and cheerful each week when she arrives at First Tee. So much so, the coach’s nicknamed her is “smiley”! She has a great way of making all the players in her group feel welcome and her positive attitude is contagious! Madie is the ultimate team player by always encouraging others to do better. She typically ends each session with givings hugs to all her teammates and coaches”, said Coach John T.

September 2023 Participant Spotlight

Aubrey has been with First Tee – Sandhills since she was 10 years old. Throughout her time with First Tee, Aubrey has made many friends, strengthened her skills and learned valuable lessons on and off the golf course. Her favorite aspect of the program is the fun, inviting environment she is able to learn in. Beyond golf, Aubrey also enjoys theater, art, photography, cheerleading and playing piano. She also has younger twin brothers that keep her busy. Aubrey encourages her friends in the program to ask questions because someone is always willing to help!

“Aubrey has been one of my participants at Gates Four for 6 seasons now. She is a great representation of First Tee, by always being enthusiastic during our games and showing great sportsmanship no matter the outcome. I have had the pleasure to watch her grow through challenges over the seasons building her confidence in herself and her golf game. I am excited to see how she continues to grow throughout this fall season,” said Coach Sarah Sontowski.

May 2023 Participant Spotlight

Paxton is 7 years old and joined First Tee – Sandhills for the first time this spring! His favorite game to play is capture the ducky where he can practice his chipping skills. He suggests everyone try out First Tee because it is fun and they will learn about the many aspects of golf. Beyond golf, Paxton plays basketball and baseball. He also enjoys swimming and taking walks around his neighborhood with his dog and younger sister.

“Paxton is a super happy and positive golfer. He has the right energy every time he shows up at class. He is always engaged in drills and listens to the coaches the first time around. He is a pleasure to have in every class,” said Coach Mandy Zeller.

April 2023 Participant Spotlight

Zoey is 11 years old and has been participating in First Tee – Sandhills since summer of 2019. She loves going to class to sharpen her golf skills and make new friends. As a fourth year participant, Zoey understands how important having perseverance is. She encourages her friends and peers to join First Tee so they, too, can grow through challenge. When Zoey is not at First Tee, she enjoys reading, writing, and telling stories. She also spends many of her afternoons playing with her dog, Walter.

“Zoey is a leader in class. She always listens and follows directions. I like her determination to succeed in all activities: putting, chipping and driving. She is very positive with her team mates. I feel no matter what she decides to do in life she will succeed,” said Coach Rita Pearce.

March 2023 Participant Spotlight

Alexandra is 7 years old and has been a First Tee – Sandhills participant since the spring of 2022. Her favorite part of the program is learning new information about golf and doing “full swings” at practice. When Alexandra is not at First Tee she enjoys playing basketball, soccer and hiking with her little brother, Teddy, her dog, Penny, and the rest of her family. She encourages her peers to try First Tee because it’s fun and they will learn about golf through fun games!

“Alexandra has been in my class for two seasons now. She is always prepared and ready to learn with a smile on her face. She gives 110% every class and encourages her teammates. She is a wonderful representation of First Tee. I can’t wait to see how she continues to grow throughout the season,” said Coach Riley.

Congratulations Alexandra! Keep up the great work!

First Tee Alum Takes on New Academy in PA

Allison Robinson is headed to Philly!

At First Tee, we help kids discover what’s inside of them, guide them to strengthen it and mentor them to put it into action in everything they do. Using golf as our platform, we believe in creating spaces of belonging for every kid – no matter what walk of life.

This July, First Tee Headquarters is hosting a new national participant event, First Tee Game Changers Academy Honoring Joe Louis Barrow, Jr. in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Ninety Six participants nationwide were selected to attend this five-day learning and empowerment academy. They will participate in important conversations around issues of identity, racism, diversity, equity and inclusion. Participants will be facilitated in engaging and interactive workshops paired with introspective activities and reflections led by nationally trained First Tee coaches. The Academy builds throughout the week into a final outreach project in collaboration with DE&I leadership in the local host community.

This Academy is one of several national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters designed to inspire and encourage high school students on a deeper level as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities.

Being one of ninety six to attend this all expenses paid opportunity is no simple feat.

Participants must first meet minimum requirements regarding their time spent in First Tee programs here in the Sandhills, age and grade in school. From there, the application process includes a school and community activities chart, golf resume, personal biography, three essays, and a letter of recommendation.

In the biography portion of Allison’s application, she was asked to explain how First Tee has helped equip her to take on new experiences and challenges. She explained, “throughout my time with First Tee, I have been able to power through my anxiety, become more outgoing, and gain a community of friends that I now call my family.”

Continuing, “when I first began, my favorite life skill to exercise was introducing myself to others and giving a firm handshake! To begin our class, coach would divide us into two lines facing one another, we would go down the line and practice greeting one another with a handshake, our name and one interesting fact about ourselves. This helped me to strengthen my people skills and my ability to talk not only to donors, coaches, fellow participants, but also anybody that I meet in my daily life.”

A First Tee kiddo, and now teen alum, Allison will attend the University of North Carolina at Wilmington in the fall where she plans to Major in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing and Entrepreneurship.

But, for now, she’ll close out her eight year run by taking advantage of every experience, challenge and life lesson First Tee has to offer while continuing to prepare for her next opportunity.

A big congratulations to Allison Robinson from the entire First Tee – Sandhills community!

Meet Aubriana Bishop

Aubriana Bishop, a freshly minted First Tee – Sandhills Alumni has expanded her role with our chapter this fall as an Intern.

Aubriana joined our chapter four years ago as a teen new to golf, quickly jumped in volunteering with programs, and had the opportunity to attend a National First Tee Participant Opportunity the summer after her junior year in high school. We are thrilled to have Aubriana take on this expanded role and our local chapter. Here’s a quick snapshot about Aubriana Bishop:

First Tee – Sandhills: Tell me a little about yourself? First Tee experience and future goals/endeavors/golf experience?

Aubriana Bishop: Hi all! I like to go by Aubri and I’m a freshman at Sandhills Community College! I started playing golf in 9th grade when I joined the Union Pines High School golf team! It was scary joining with absolutely no experience, but I was a quick learner and had First Tee to help me out! For the rest of high school, I leaned on my time at First Tee to build on my skills. Soon enough, I was not only the team captain, but one of the top players in my district! As for my school ambitions, after getting my associates degree, my goal is to major in a specialty of biological science, most likely genetics! I plan to at least get a masters and hopefully even a PhD in the future. Going into research as a career would be my dream, so I’m working hard to make that a reality!

First Tee – Sandhills: What do you love most about First Tee?

Aubri: My favorite part of First Tee is the connections I’ve been able to make. I get to meet people from all sorts of backgrounds and have made some wonderful friends along the way. Both in the lessons and when coaching, there’s always a fun and inviting atmosphere that I find unique and extraordinary. Its what made me keep coming back year after year for classes, then volunteering, and now my first internship!

First Tee – Sandhills: Who is your favorite women’s golfer and why?

Aubri: My favorite women’s golfer is definitely Lydia Ko! She’s not only a fabulous player, but honestly just seems like a nice down to earth person. She’s extremely inspirational for her amazing skills and performance despite being so young. In between her world records, she’s always smiling and laughing. I value her attitude over anything. You can just tell she’s there because she truly loves the sport.

First Tee – Sandhills: One piece of advice you’d give to First Tee Participants.

Aubri: The best piece of advice I could give First Tee kids is something I wish I could go back and tell my younger self: you’re never too old to do something you love. This was something I struggled with a lot in high school. When I first started golfing, I was convinced that I started too late. Everyone around me had been golfing since they were 4. How was I supposed to catch up to them? Additionally, when I first started participating in program at First Tee, I often felt that I was “too old” for the games and activities. I wouldn’t let myself get excited about them; I had to “act my age” and prove my maturity. I even stopped playing videogames or watching shows I liked because I labeled them as too childish. Now that I’m older and coaching at First Tee, I see myself in some of the kids. While its good to be mature, its so easy to let yourself destroy the things that make you happy. I’m so glad I’ve grown from then, and I’m also happy I’m in a position where I can steer these kids in the right direction.

A Sunday I’ll Never Forget with BJ Boyce

As Saturday evening approached, it had settled in that Paul Broadhurst and I had made the Pro-Junior cut. I would be playing in Sunday’s Final Round of the Pure Insurance Championship! We had an 8:37am tee time off Hole 1 with Kirk Triplett and his junior participant, Sam Soomerhauser. I was SUPER EXCITED but also very NERVOUS! After the first few hole, I was able to settle in, relax a little bit and had a chip in from the hazard on Hole 4. After watching the ball roll into the hole like a perfect putt, I had a sudden surge of relief… the lid had been pulled off the hole! I settled into my round and made a handful of pars, chapped off by a Birdie on Hole 15 – saving our Pro-Junior Team two strokes as my pro had bogeyed the hole. On Hole 17, a par three, I had pushed my tee shot almost onto 18 tee box, executed a great shot from a terrible place, still rolling over the green, and then, chipped in to save par. It was an awesome feeling to hear the crowd cheer for me after the ball went in. At that very moment, I felt like I was a tour pro and gave them a little wave like I’ve seen the pros do. Coming up the 18th fairway was surreal. Seeing all of the people int he bleachers cheering while I’m standing in the fairway on the greatest course I’ve ever played. Then, hearing my fellow participant, Drew Spurlock screaming after they announced my name… It was AWESOME! As a team, Paul and I carded a final round 64. Placing us tied for 3rd overall in the Pro-Junior Division. A finish, and experience, I’m not sure I could have dreamed up! Post round, I wrote some thank you cards to people who had a key role in making this event and experience possible. Then, joined the other juniors on 18 green to cheer on the final groups. After the trophy ceremony, they lined us up so we could get our banner with our name and our pros caddie bib! It was very bitter sweet for the week to be coming to a close.I have been dreaming, waiting and working towards this experience for so long, I had so much fun meeting and hanging out with fellow junior participants, and as it comes to a close, I’m a bit devastated. But, I quickly reminded myself I have an amazing once-in-a-lifetime experience to look back on and I will never forget a second of it! Monday morning I woke up and it all felt like some big dream that I’ll never ever forget. Thank you for following along in our experience, and your support of First Tee!

My Weekend at Pebble Beach by Drew Spurlock

Saturday was my official tournament round on Pebble Beach Golf Links! Michael Bradley and I had an afternoon tee time of the 1st Hole so I was able to sleep in a bit. Whew! After enjoying another great breakfast in player hospitality, I headed to the practice facility. While working int he short game area, I had the chance to meet Kirk Triplett and Scott McCarron. Once I wrapped up warmups, I met up with Mr. Bradley and worked on marking the pin locations in my yardage book. Saturday’s conditions on Pebble Beach Golf Links were going to be very different from our practice round on Wednesday with sustained winds between 25 – 30mph and gust up to 45mph! What did I learn about playing in high winds on a golf course that sits on the ocean? Putting is extremely difficult! We had to take the wind into account as to how it would impact the speed and direction the putts would roll. My golf highlight of the day? I made a birdie on Hole 6! Throughout the round, I learned a lot from Mr. Bradley – how to deal with nerves, the difference between being in contention and not in contention for a final round. Overall it was a great experience playing with him, I felt like we gelled well together and had a really good time. After my round,  I was exhausted! But, was able to enjoy a nice dinner with my whole family as it was my grandparents last night in California. (Thanks for coming out, gma and gpa!) Sunday made for another super cool experience of a lifetime! While missing a cut is never something you want to have happen – the activities First Tee had planned for us on Sunday, made for an amazing experience that we won’t have again. All participants not playing on Sunday met First Tee staff at the Pebble Beach Visitors Center. We paired up in small groups, joining friends I’d made over the course of the week, and did a Scavenger Hunt which took us all around the Pebble Beach property. From our favorite spots throughout the week, to places we made memories and iconic locations on the golf course – we went everywhere. Once the hunt was completed, we all headed over to the 18th green to cheer on our fellow participants who made the cut and were finishing their round. There ended up being a playoff for the Champions Tour title, between Kirk Triplett and Billy Andrade. Mr. Triplett made a birdie on the first playoff hole, 18, to win the title! The playoff was really fun to watch! After the trophy presentation we were able to get our tournament banners and caddie bibs to bring home – such a cool memento! Then, it was time to say, ‘see you soon’ to our new friends and take one last look across the landscape of Pebble Beach Golf Links. Truly, an experience of a lifetime!