Blog Archives - Page 4 of 8 - First Tee

FTSV 25th Anniversary OPEN HOUSE

(FTSV 25^th Anniversary OPEN HOUSE – Published 08/20/25) This past weekend, First Tee – Silicon Valley celebrated its 25th Anniversary with a vibrant community-wide Open House at Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course in East San Jose. The event and festivities marked 25 years of positive impact through golf, mentorship, and character development. Families, alumni, and community members came together to acknowledge three 25-year milestones: First Tee – Silicon Valley serving 100,000 kids and teens, Founding Board Chair Victor M. Arrañaga, Jr.’s years of dedicated service, and Rancho del Pueblo opening as East San Jose’s community golf course.

Guests enjoyed free access to the golf course, driving range, and putting green, along with a tasty catered lunch, refreshing Kona Hawaiian shaved ice, festive music from Mariachi Estelar, and a lively performance by the Golden Turtle Lion Dancers. The Dryvebox simulator was onsite for FREE SWINGS. The day was filled with community spirit, family fun, and joyful celebration—perfectly reflecting FTSV’s mission to bring people together through golf and building the strength of character in our kids and teens that empowers them through a lifetime of challenges.

Special guests, who paid tribute to First Tee – Silicon Valley and Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course included:

Scott Siegfeid – CourseCo. Senior Operations Manager

Avi Yotam– Deputy Director SJ Parks Division

Peter Ortiz – SJ District 5 Councilmember

Ash Kalra – CA Assemblymember

Dave Cortese – CA State Senator

Robert Rivas – Speaker of the CA State Assembly

And Current San Jose Mayor – Matt Mahan and former San Jose Mayor – Ron Gonzales stopped by to Meet & Greet FTSV and the community.

First Tee – Silicon Valley Chairman of the Board and founder Victor M. Arrañaga, Jr. had this to say about FTSV 25^th Anniversary OPEN HOUSE…

“The support and joy extended by so many individuals at FTSV’s 25^th Anniversary Celebration at Rancho del Pueblo was overwhelming. I feel nothing but sincere gratitude to the local and state elected officials that joined us and presented commendations in validation of the impact FTSV has had over 25 years.”

Victor Continues, “I loved seeing the original Eagles at Rancho del Pueblo instructors and feel forever grateful for all their contributions to our youth at the genesis of the FTSV program. Serving more than 100,000 kids and teens over these past 25 years is an achievement that would not be possible without the support of everyone in the FTSV family and Alum Rock and Eastside community.”

“FTSV’s 25th Anniversary event at Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course was a wonderful celebration of our 25 years of youth development of over 100,000 kids and teens.” Said George Maxe, FTSV President & CEO. “We are ever so grateful for the commendations and encouragements we received from so many elected leaders at the city, county and state levels. Over 1,000 caring adults have been mentors and staff for FTSV over the years. It was especially nice to honor all of their contributions including those who were part of Eagles at Rancho and First Tee – San Jose in the early years.”

George continues, “I strongly believe that caring about and for kids is the #1 reason why FTSV has grown bigger and stronger over 25 years. We want all kids to have access to our course and school program – to grow stronger in character as they grow bigger and to have brighter futures because of it. Like the kids, FTSV has also grown bigger and stronger over 25 years. Our future is bright too!”

The 25th Anniversary Open House was more than a day of golf and entertainment—it was a testament to the lasting impact First Tee – Silicon Valley has made over the past quarter century on the community. Thank you to everyone who joined us in making this milestone event a true reflection of FTSV’s mission: building game changers through the game of golf.

Coach Spotlight: Meet Katelyn Chan

(Coach Spotlight: Meet Katelyn Chan – Published 8/7/25) First Tee – Silicon Valley (FTSV) owes so much of our successful impact to our many wonderful coaches who are the backbone of FTSV’s programs. This month’s Coach Spotlight highlights Katelyn Chan, a FTSV alumni turned volunteer, and now paid coach, who always brings the care and enthusiasm needed to build relationships with our participants and help them build golf and life skills.

Katelyn started playing golf at age 5 and has been at it ever since. She took FTSV classes from age 7 to 16 and then started as a volunteer coach at age 15. “Once I was eligible to volunteer, I was really excited to just give back what First Tee gave me when I was a kid. All my coaches were awesome, it was such a positive environment to be in, so it seemed like so much fun to get involved as a coach.” Katelyn reflected.

It’s clear that while she was a participant, Katelyn took all our life skills to heart. Her stand-out participation led to her selection to attend the First Tee Leadership Summit, to receive the First Tee 2024 Make Your Mark Award, and to achieve her First Tee Ace Certification.

Katelyn coaches with respect and compassion, teaches participants how to persevere through difficulties with their golf swings, and always relates the life skill to a participant’s own life and interests. “When it comes to life skills, I try to have casual conversations and teach lessons naturally, just trying to relate to their life. Kids all have different ways of learning things and it’s fun to get to know different kids and how each of them best takes in our lessons. I love asking kids goofy questions and having fun with them – kids always have something to say and offer a different perspective.”

Katelyn is a great example of what it takes to build a positive environment in class. When a coach can create an environment of trust, safety, and positivity, participants are more likely to express themselves, have fun, and absorb and learn the day’s lesson effectively. It’s this active learning environment that we’re always striving for – Coach Katelyn experienced that as a participant and is now creating that as a coach.

Be a Coach… Be a Mentor

While her background in golf and as a FTSV participant was helpful in becoming a coach, it’s not a requirement – FTSV is always looking for coaches who want to make an impact on the lives of kids, teens, and the community. “Don’t be intimidated, there’s a great team of coaches to guide you along the way. Just have fun talking to kids and having fun with the class. Being a coach really helped me feel more confident and develop conversation skills that I use in and outside class.” Click here for more information on joining FTSV as a volunteer coach.

Isabella Herrera Receives Victor M. Arrañaga, Jr. Leadership Award

(Isabella Herrera Receives Inaugural Victor M. Arrañaga, Jr. Leadership Award – Published 08/01/2025) In celebration of Victor’s 25^th Anniversary, the Victor M. Arrañaga, Jr. Leadership Award was created to recognize a Participant of Good Character, Academic Achievement & Demonstrated Leadership. The inaugural $5,000 scholarship was awarded to long-time FTSV participant Isabella Herrera at the First Tee – Silicon Valley (FTSV) 2025 Invitational fundraiser on Sunday, July 20th at CordeValle in San Martin, CA. Special thanks to PG&E and PhRMA for their early funding of the scholarship fund.

Victor M. Arrañaga, Jr. is the Founding Chairman of First Tee – Silicon Valley

Leading the organization with unwavering dedication since 2000. As Chairman of the San Jose Sports Authority in the late ’90s, he helped launch the Eagles youth golf program at the new Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course. The program evolved into a First Tee chapter in 2005, expanded regionally in 2012, and became an independent nonprofit in 2014. Under Victor’s leadership, FTSV has grown into a top-tier chapter among more than 150 nationwide.

Victor leads with heart and purpose, fueled by his deep love for East San José, youth, and the game of golf as a tool for character development. His successful career in government relations with major corporations adds to his gravitas, while his warm presence and signature phrase — “keep a smile” — continue to uplift and inspire all around him.

Isabella remarks on why she believes she was selected for the award.

“When I was 14, I was encouraged to give back and become a coach. My coaches helped train me, gave me feedback, and encouraged me to lead sections of the class. I was trusted to connect with families in Spanish at community outreach events and share information about our program to families that had no experience with golf. Beyond coaching, my First Tee – Silicon Valley family has advocated for me to apply for national opportunities… which has resulted in me being accepted to the Game Changers Academy in Minneapolis, the Driver Future Academy in San Francisco, and the Leadership Summit in Montana.”

Isabella’s Accomplishments

FTSV Participant since 2013
Volunteer since September 2021
Selected by a National Panel to Attend: The First Tee Game Changers Academy, First Tee Leadership Summit, Drive Your Future Academy, First Tee College Scholar
VP California Junior Scholarship Federation – Honors Program
President’s Volunteer Service Award – Gold
Youth on Course Leadership Chair
National Honors Society – Notre Dame High School
LPGA Girls Golf E-Leader
She will be attending USC in the fall

In additional to the Victor M. Arrañaga, Jr. Leadership Award presentation

The Invitational included a gathering of Government Affairs professionals from various companies: PG&E, PhRMA, Chevron, Altria, SoCal Edison, Commerce Casino & Hotel, Noteware Government Relations, and Niemela Pappas & Associates. Organized by FTSV Board Chairman Victor M. Arrañaga, Jr. and FTSV President & CEO George Maxe, the Invitational includes several activities for sponsors – a Legislative Roundtable, dinners, and golf with colleagues. A special thanks to the following Government Elected Officials who were in attendance for portions of the event: CA Assembly Member Heath Flora, CA Assembly Member Greg Wallis, CA Assembly Member Ash Kalra, and Santa Clara County Assessor Larry Stone.

First Tee – Silicon Valley Board of Directors, staff, and program participants,
thank you for your commitment and support of our mission to develop the character of youth through the game of golf.

Thank you to all our 2025 Invitational sponsors for their continued support as we celebrate our 25th year to address socio-economic gaps with programs designed to foster diversity, equity and inclusion. FTSV has served over 100,000 youth making our program accessible to youth of different backgrounds and perspectives and affordable to families experiencing financial hardship.

Ashely Pang Receives Joyce Taylor Eagle Award

(Ashely Pang Receives Joyce Taylor $5K Scholarship – Published 08/01/2025) The Joyce Taylor Eagle Award and $5,000 College Scholarship was presented to long-time FTSV participant Ashley Pang at the First Tee – Silicon Valley (FTSV) 2025 Invitational fundraiser on Sunday, July 20th at CordeValle in San Martin, CA. Thank you to all our 2025 Invitational sponsors for their continued support as we celebrate our 25th year to address socio-economic gaps with programs designed to foster diversity, equity and inclusion. FTSV has served over 100,000 youth making our program accessible to youth of different backgrounds and perspectives and affordable to families experiencing financial hardship.

Ashely was selected for her consistent academic excellence, her exemplary volunteer accomplishments, and for her demonstration of First Tee character and life skills. The purpose of the award is to provide a high school student the financial hope of attending college. Ashely will be attending Pacific University this fall.

The scholarship was initiated by a very generous 9-year grant by PG&E several years ago and has since then been supported by other supporters and Joyce’s brother, Alan Taylor.

Ashely remarks on her takeaways from FTSV

“Looking back, I’m incredibly grateful for what First Tee has given me—not just a deeper understanding of golf, but a clear sense of how I want to lead and be seen by others. Through lessons like identifying what it means to be in the stretch zone, and adopting a growth mindset through challenges, I’ve learned that leadership is about stepping up and embracing the challenges, even when the outcome is uncertain or so far away. I now carry a toolkit of confidence, compassion, and resilience–characteristics of myself that I hope to inspire and share with my surrounding community….my First Tee community will always be supporting me wherever I am.”

Ashely’s Accomplishments

FTSV Participant since 2012 & Volunteer since 2021 Selected by a National Panel to Attend:
The First Tee Leadership Academy in Atlanta
Drive Your Future Academy in San Francisco
High School Golf Team Captain 2021-2024
President’s Volunteer Service Golf Award for 2024
Co-President of her High School’s German Club
1 of 2 Participants at her High School awarded Social Studies Excellence Award
Magna Cum Laude

Speech: Ashely Pang Received Joyce Taylor $5K Scholarship

In additional to the Joyce Taylor Award presentation…

First Tee – Silicon Valley Board of Directors, staff, and program participants, thank you for your commitment and support of our mission to develop the character of youth through the game of golf.

Joyce Taylor (1957–2010) was a woman known for her intelligence, warmth, and elegance. She graduated with honors (Phi Beta Kappa) from the University of Oklahoma (OU) with a Bachelor’s degree in journalism. Joyce became a highly successful and respected business woman and community leader with a long career in telecommunications. In 1997, she was promoted to Regional President, Bay Area, and then Senior Vice President, External Affairs-Northern California, AT&T, where she oversaw legislative, governmental and external affairs activities in Northern California.

Joyce worked extensively with Bay Area business and community-based organizations. Her support of the Eagles at Rancho del Pueblo junior golf program was instrumental to its growth and success. In 2005, the program became First Tee — Silicon Valley to develop the character of youth through golf throughout Santa Clara County. Joyce’s support helped to build a solid program that has reached over 81,234 youth since 2005. The Joyce Taylor Eagle Award is given annually to provide financial assistance for college to a participant who has consistently achieved academic excellence and exhibits exceptionally good character.

Mentor Spotlight: Ysabelle Lam

(Mentor Spotlight: Ysabelle Lam – July 11, 2025) First Tee – Silicon Valley (FTSV) has positively impacted over 100,000 kids and teens throughout our 25-year history. That success is largely built on the passion, hard work, and commitment of our hundreds of volunteer mentors and paid staff. This month’s Mentor Spotlight is on a volunteer who’s been with us for 2 years, who always brings a positive attitude and goal of meeting kids where they are to help them get the most out of their FTSV experience.

Ysabelle Lam started with FTSV in 2023. She began working with our participants at Baylands Golf Links and coaches with us every season. In her classes she successfully bonds with students over shared interests like art, gaming, and travel. Ysabelle knows how to break the ice, an important step to building a positive, trusting relationship that allows our coaches to effectively deliver our life skills curriculum in a safe, fun environment.

“When I started at First Tee, I was still in my first year of learning golf. My personal golf journey was extremely frustrating at times, so it became a great way for me to grow my character as well. I love using golf to teach life skills, because if you can stay respectful, confident, and truly persevere through an off day in golf, it prepares you to face and conquer challenging times in any aspect of life.”

The best part about Coach Ysabelle’s coaching style is her ability to bring the life skill lessons to kids within friendly conversation – showing and engaging, rather than telling, participants what it means to be respectful, appreciate diversity, collaborate, and more. In this way, participants are internalizing how the life skills connect with their interests, or with whatever they are experiencing in their lives. As a result, the life skills become much more impactful and applicable.

“When I am coaching my number one priority is to ensure everyone is having fun (and also to be safe). I emphasize encouragement over criticism and try to help students stay confident, even when they’re struggling — whether we’re on the range or out on the course. What I enjoy most is watching their confidence grow throughout the season — not just in their golf game, but in themselves.”

Ysabelle is a perfect example that FTSV is a “life skills first” program, where golf is the vehicle to building character and becoming the best version of yourself. No matter your skill level, golf tests us in ways that bring out the best of our integrity, confidence, and work-ethic, making it the perfect life-long sport we can all enjoy with dedication. FTSV is always looking for volunteer mentors who are looking to make an impact on the lives of kids, teens, and the community. Coach Ysabelle says, “ If you’re considering joining FTSV as a volunteer, know that you don’t need to be a golf expert — you just need a passion for helping kids grow. The impact you can make simply by showing up and caring is huge.” For more information on joining FTSV as a volunteer coach.

KRTY.COM Writers Cup Benefits First Tee – Silicon Valley

The 2025 KRTY.COM Writers Cup benefits First Tee – Silicon Valley. Join some of Nashville’s country music songwriters on October 1st at Cinnabar Hills Golf Club for a day of golf, guitars and giving back!

Tournament is SOLD OUT! (as of 9/15/25)

Writers participating in this year’s KRTY.COM Writers Cup:

Matt Stell, Casey Brown, Ben Williams, Chris Bandi, Trent Tomlinson, Luke Dick

KRTY.COM Writers Cup Timeline:

10:00am – Check In – Pick up Gift & Lunch
11:45am – Players in Carts
12:00pm – Scramble Shotgun Start
5:00pm – Cocktails & First Half Songwriters Show
5:45pm – Dinner, LIVE Auction & Raffle
7:00pm – Second Half Songwriters Show

KRTY.COM Writers Cup Tournament Pack will include:

$50 per player – Tournament pack will be available a few weeks before the tourney

One Mulligan
Closest to Hole (2)
DGDG Car Hole In One
Putting Contest at the snack bar turn
10 Raffle Tickets for chance to win exciting prizes
Benefits First Tee – Silicon Valley

To find out how to make FTSV a beneficiary of your upcoming fundraiser by visiting our Partner Page.

Read last year’s Recap: KRTY.COM Writers Cup Benefits First Tee – Silicon Valley

LAST YEAR: “We are very proud to be able to produce this event for the benefit of First Tee – Silicon Valley” said Nate Deaton, KRTY.com General Manager. “We are lucky to have 6 amazing songwriters with us this year, Trent Tomlinson, Luke Dick, Ray Fulcher, Casey Brown, Tyler Reeve, and of course, Cole Taylor. One night at the end of last year, I mentioned to Cole Taylor that I had an idea to do a Charity Golf Event with Songwriters. He looked at me and said, we could call it the Writers Cup! And here we are.”

KRTY.COM Writers Cup Benefits First Tee – Silicon Valley golfers

KRTY.COM Writers Cup Benefits First Tee – Silicon Valley songwriters

Published: 07-11-2025

5th Annual Fund the Kids Golf Tournament in Gilroy

Join Jacobs – South County Regional Wastewater Authority for the 5th Annual Fund the Kids Golf Tournament, benefiting First Tee – Silicon Valley on Saturday, September 27^th, 2025 at Gilroy Golf Course.

Sponsor

Jacobs has been the Contract Operator for the South County Regional Wastewater Authority (SCRWA) plant in Gilroy since 1984. Under a long-term service agreement, Jacobs maintains the integrity of the wastewater system. It is the goal of SCRWA to protect public health and the environment and ensure economic vitality of the Gilroy-Morgan Hill region. The plant operator’s objective is to provide the best quality recycled water at a superior value to the residents.

This plant has won numerous awards, including Plant of the Year Award for several years in a row, while many of their employees have also won individual awards, winning Laboratory Person of the Year numerous times, with the most recent in 2022.

Community involvement is an extension of the Jacobs’ and the SCRWA culture. They care about their surrounding communities. This is why Jacobs’ felt compelled to sponsor the 5th Annual Fund the Kids Golf Tournament, benefiting First Tee – Silicon Valley.

(Read about last year’s tournament HERE)

As of September 12th, FOURSOMES and INDIVIDUAL player registrations are SOLD OUT. But please consider a sponsorship.

Fund the Kids Sponsorship Levels

$1,500 – HOST SPONSORS: Signage at registration, lunch area, and beverage stations. Recognition on website, on socials, program and 1-Foursome. Sponsor may be on-site with giveaways and/or info.
$1,000 – CONTEST SPONSORS: Signage at the (3) contest holes (closest to the pin, longest drive & putting), website, recognition on socials, program and 4-lunch invites. Sponsor may be on-site with giveaways and/or info.
$500 – SUPPORTING SPONSORS: Signage at (2) Tee boxes, website, recognition on socials, program and 2-lunch invites.
$300 – HOLE SPONSORS: Signage at (1) tee box, recognition on social and program.

PUBLISHED: 07-11-2025 UPDATED: 09-11-2025

Benefits of Extracurricular Activities on Youth Development

(Benefits of Extracurricular Activities on Youth Development – July 11, 2025) According to numerous published studies, students who participate in Extracurricular Activities outside the classroom experience notable gains in academic success, character building, social development and community involvement.

1. Academic Success

“Students who participate frequently in extracurricular activities tend to have higher grades, better test scores, and more positive educational experiences in general” (Claudette Christison The Benefits of Participating in Extracurricular Activities https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1230758.pdf – Fredricks, 2011). Christison continues… “students involved in activities have a 10% increase in their expectations of attaining a college degree, as compared to non-participants” (Lipscomb, 2007, p. 470).

2. Character Building

“Students who participate in extracurricular activities report higher levels of self-concept and self-worth (Claudette Christison – Blomfield & Barber, 2009).” Christison goes on to explain that “they also have opportunities to develop personal interests and discover their strengths and weaknesses (Claudette Christison – Fredricks & Eccles, 2008), which is especially important during the adolescent stage of self-exploration.”

3. Social Development

Adolescents that participate in after-school sports and/or activities, are likely to experience a greater sense of belonging. “Group activities provide opportunities for students to build connections with others who have similar interests and goals, which will increase their motivation to commit long term to an activity that also increases enjoyment.” (Claudette Christison The Benefits of Participating in Extracurricular Activities https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1230758.pdf).

4. Community Involvement

By participating in extracurricular sports and activities, students are exposed to communities outside the normal school networks, which can be diverse. Claudette Christison explains, … “participating in extracurricular activities creates a network between individuals and their community, including the elderly and the working class (Gatto, 2005). Students can learn the importance of giving back to the community and helping those in need. Students are also more likely to volunteer in their community after high school if they participate in extracurricular activities during adolescence (Barber, Mueller, & Ogata, 2013). These activities generate a sense of belonging to the community as a whole (Barber et al., 2013), which inspires them to be contributing members of society.”

Why Youth Development and Our Program Matters

Our kids are facing challenges beyond life’s expected growing pains. They experience pressures within their communities, online, and the world. It is important for all kids and teens to engage in safe opportunities and programs that foster a culture of acceptance and provide mentorship.

Our program addresses all four benefits.

100% of our teens that have been with us for more than 3 years graduate high school and our Fall Ace class demystifies the college exploration and application process.
Character building is at the core of who we are and what our mission is all about. Of our 6 Life Skills, we have 4 lessons centered around how to build a positive self-identity, 4 lessons designed to help a participant overcome challenges, and 4 lessons focused on how to make informed decisions and work well with others.
When our long-standing participants give speeches or reflect on their time with us, many point to how they have developed socially, and feel First Tee – Silicon Valley is a safe and supportive community. Shaking hands, introducing oneself, and asking questions are behaviors and actions that we encourage and try to develop for all participants in our program.
Last year we had over 120 junior volunteer coaches give back and help mentor our youth. Of the 127 junior volunteers more than 75% were or are active participants in our program. Many of them said they remembered their junior coach when they were young and wanted to give back as soon as they were eligible.

2025 School Year is coming fast!

Many extracurricular sports and activities require try-outs, signups and/or fees weeks in advance. Make sure you’re keeping up with groups and organizations’ communications. Learn more about First Tee – Silicon Valley’s youth programs.

The First Tee – Silicon Valley FALL 2025 Classes begin September 9^th

Registration for our Fall 2025 Classes opens here on Wednesday, August 13th at 11am. Register for an 8-week set of classes at one of our three locations:

Rancho del Pueblo (San Jose)
Baylands Golf Links (Palo Alto)
Gavilan College Golf Course (Gilroy)

Classes are open to all youth from 2nd to 12^th grade. Equipment Provided. Registration Fee is $250 for our Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course and Gavilan College Golf Course classes and $300 for our Baylands Golf Links classes. Financial aid is available on a sliding scale and can reduce the fee to $20-$180.

If you’re interested in registering your child or want to ask a question, please fill out the inquiry form below.

2025 Summer of Opportunity!

(2025 Summer of Opportunity!) Summer is here, and with it, another round of First Tee National Opportunities. Every year, First Tee – Silicon Valley participants who have been long standing and highly engaged are selected to apply for these unique, once in a lifetime experiences. FTSV has submitted their applications, and many participants have been selected to attend these opportunities and represent their chapter. Congratulations!

Qualifications to apply for Opportunities

Every year, participants from First Tee chapters worldwide apply for one of the limited spots at these limited opportunities. To apply, our chapter looks for FTSV participants who have a minimum of 3 years with First Tee and have been highly engaged in the chapter over the years (e.g., volunteer coach, participant at least 2 seasons per year each year, active in tournaments/Girls Golf, etc.). Applicants are selected to apply based on their time spent in the program, amount of volunteer hours, engagement in FTSV extracurriculars, and other accomplishments. Once selected to apply, applicants must meet the requirements set forth by First Tee National, write several short essays, listing their accomplishments in and out of the classroom, and include letters of recommendation.

Good work to all participants who were able to submit applications this year!

So far, this year FTSV has submitted 24 applications for 4 different National Opportunities, including the College Scholar Program.

First Tee College Scholarship – Class of 2025

Two participants, Isabella Herrera and Li An Panfil, accepted into the College Scholar Program, provided them with financial support, career mentorship and internship opportunities. Congratulations and good luck with this next chapter of your life!

First Tee National Championship – Notre Dame June 22-26

Participant Brian Yu was selected this year as our representative to the FT National Championship tournament. Unfortunately, he will not be able to attend, but it was an honor to be selected.

First Tee Game Changers Academy Honoring Joe Louis Barrow, Jr. July 8-12

Participants Li An Panfil and Nicolas Hernandez Lopez were selected to attend the Game Changers Academy.

First Tee Leadership Academy with PGA Tour Superstore, June 16-21

Participants Edwin Sanchez, Vian Tran and Marissa Wei have been selected to attend the FT Leadership Academy held in Atlanta, GA.

First Tee Leadership Summit with PGA Tour Superstore, August 4-8 or August 11-15

Participants Joshua Joo and Vikrant Bhende have been selected to attend the FT Leadership Summit taking place at the West Creek Ranch in Emigrant, Montana.

Applications are being filled out for the Innovators Forum and the Drive Your Future Academy and selections will be made in August and September respectively. Selected participants for the PURE Insurance Championship at Pebble Beach will be announced early next month.

Published: 06-16-2025

Girls Golf: Teen Clinic

(Girls Golf: Teen Clinic) On Saturday, May 31^st, First Tee – Silicon Valley (FTSV) hosted our very first Girl’s Golf Teen Clinic at Rancho Del Pueblo Golf Course.

During this clinic, eighteen participants were able to experience 3 advanced lessons on the putting, chipping, and range areas. They were able to practice as much as they liked while our FTSV coaches provided feedback and advanced tips.

Our putting lesson was led by Coach Angelina and Coach Annie; two accomplished golfers who understand the importance of staying cool during fierce competition. They discussed the importance of keeping a cool head when frustrated. Our teens were taught how to prepare for a long putt and the importance of leaving it in an area known as your “comfort zone.” An imaginary circle where a golfer knows they’ll make the putt 80% of the time.

Girls Golf: Teen Clinic – On the range…

our lesson was led by Coach Tracy, a former professional golfer on the LPGA Future’s Tour as well as Norah, our First Tee National Champion. While giving advanced tips on the full swing, our coaches also discussed the importance of nutrition and hydration during a golf round and how hunger affects the mental state.

Lastly, on the chipping green led by Coach Phoenix, a dedicated Program Coordinator for FTSV, as well as Coach Joey, a nationally nominated participant for the First Tee PURE Insurance Tournament. They discussed importance of making smart choices and how to select the right golf club for specific chipping conditions. Our participants were excited to learn how to hit a flop shot!

One of our participants, Natalia, shared her thoughts on the event: “I really enjoyed the teen clinic. Coach Norah explained things to me in a way that my private coaches couldn’t. Norah’s instructions were easy to understand, and I started to hit the ball better because of it. She’s my favorite coach!”

Speaking of Norah, she was proud to see the success of the event, “Thank you so much for inviting me to coach! It’s amazing to see so many female teens together. You really don’t see that too often on the golf course!”

Golf can be a challenging sport as it takes deliberate practice, patience, and a growth mindset. It can be even more challenging for a female teen since 66% of girls drop out of golf by the time they are 12 years old. We’re proud to be able to host an event where our girls can feel empowered, seen, and heard.

Many thanks to Coach Phoenix, Joey, Norah, Tracy, Annie, and Angelina! Thank you for being great mentors!

For future events, visit our Our Opportunities page or contact Manny Gallardo – [email protected].