(Fairways & Friendships: FTSV Summer Camps & Classes Wrap Up – Published 08/07/26) This summer FTSV rolled out seven (7) 4-day camps in addition to our normal 8-week classes and our 18-Hole Play classes. The camps were held at Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course in San Jose, and Spring Valley Golf Course in Milpitas. There were camps for all our grade groups, 2nd-4th, 5-6th, 7th-8th, and 9th-12th. In total, we had over 83 registrations across the 7 camps. Participants spent half the camp doing our Practice class lesson then (after lunch) playing on the golf course for the second half.
“We are grateful to the participants and families who took part in our 4-day camps this summer,” says FTSV Program Director, Chris Moreno-Hunt. “We know summer planning is a challenge, so we appreciate you spending some of your summer with us. Time and repetition are what’s needed to improve and gain confidence, and the camps give our participants that much needed continuous time. Hopefully the participants left with more friends and feeling more confident about their life and golf skills.”
We encourage everyone to play more golf with friends and family using our discount card (passed out week 2 of our season), the Youth on Course card, and by accessing our “everything you need to know to golf” video and document. Quality time with family is at a premium, so why not build in some quality time playing golf!
Join us for the next season
The First Tee – Silicon Valley FALL 2026 Classes begin September 8th. Registration for our Fall 2026 Classes opens Wednesday, August 12th 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 12th grade. Equipment Provided. 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. Learn more about First Tee – Silicon Valley’s youth programs.
Fall Class Inquiry Form
Let us know your level of interest in registering your kid for our Fall Seasons OR if you have questions about registration.
(THREE of Our FTSV Participants Competed in the 2026 First Tee National Championship! – Published 08/07/26) First Tee – Silicon Valley participants Alexis Chu, Annie Lu and Arden Xu competed in the annual First Tee National Championship held at University of NC, Chapel Hill, North Carolina on June 21st to 25th. The First Tee National Championship brought together First Tee’s elite players for an opportunity to showcase how the program has helped them build the strength of character needed to play at the collegiate or next level. The winners of each male and female division were awarded with the Tattersall Cup named after First Tee Trustee, Fred Tattersall. Each winner earned an exemption into the PGA TOUR Champions’ PURE Insurance Championship Impacting First Tee at Pebble Beach Golf Links.
First Tee National Championship is a 54-hole stroke-play event featuring a Girls and Boys division for high school participants. The field included 24 boys and 24 girls, ages 14-18, who were selected based on their golf skill, competitive golf experience and handicap.
Meet Alexis
Alexis started with FTSV eight years ago in 2018. She is a dedicated participant who started in our PLAYer classes, progressing through our program to our ACE Level. Additionally, she has been part of our Junior Council, brainstorming ideas for the betterment of our program overall, and remains and active volunteer with over 80 service hours as a coach. She has been selected for multiple First Tee National opportunities like the Leadership Summit in Montana and the upcoming PURE Insurance Championship at Pebble Beach.
Meet Annie
Annie started with FTSV two years ago in 2024, initially joining as a junior coach before later becoming an ACE participant. While she did not join the First Tee – Silicon Valley program until high school, Annie’s impact has not gone unnoticed. She has quickly stood out as an exceptional participant and coach through her thoughtfulness and consistent demonstration of our core values and life skills. Annie is also a frequent volunteer for our Girl’s Golf program making her an important mentor to our young female participants. She is also selected to represent our chapter at the PURE Insurance Championship in September.
“My experience at the National Championship was life changing. I met so many new peers who shared the same passions as me and I was able to open up and share about my own experiences with First Tee, whether it was the same or different. In addition, being around all these juniors who are similar in age and passionate about golf and First Tee has definitely opened up my eyes about the possibilities in the world and how I can contribute further.”
Meet Arden
Arden started with FTSV in 2024 and is currently taking ACE level classes. Since joining our program, Arden has been eager to make contributions as he regularly volunteers as a junior coach at Baylands Golf Links. He has totaled over 100 volunteer hours within the FTSV and is often praised by his peers. Arden has also qualified for the PURE Insurance Championship in September.
“The First Tee National Championship was by far one of the most unforgettable tournaments I have ever experienced! The number of amenities, care, and kindness that the First Tee organization treated us made everyone feel truly valued as competitors of this amazing event. What I found truly incredible was the organization of post-round events (such as guest speakers or the opening ceremony) that created a unique atmosphere for me to socialize with other competitive junior golfers. It was the people that made this tournament special, and I will never forget this amazing experience.”
All three participants are outstanding golfers who play and excel in their golf teams and in their individual tournaments. What we appreciate is they work hard and are grounded, modest, and respectful. They are also dedicated to coaching our life skill curriculum to our younger participants. Thank you, Alexis, Annie, and Arden!
Click here to view the tournament details and highlights. Click here to view more information on the National Opportunities.
(FTSV’s Participants Selected for Game Changers Academy – Published 08/07/26) Alonso Jose, Adam Rosas, Julia Villa and Varnika Arun from First Tee — Silicon Valley were selected and participated in the First Tee Game Changers Academy Honoring Joe Louis Barrow, Jr. in Minneapolis, MN, July 18-22, 2026. They were 4 of 72 teens from across the First Tee network (over 250 FT Chapters) who were selected for the 5-day learning and empowerment academy. They participated in important discussions on self-awareness, inclusive leadership, and community building – skills they will carry with them throughout their lives. First Tee led dynamic, interactive workshops, complemented by reflective activities guided by our nationally trained First Tee coaches. The experience was designed to enlighten, inspire, encourage, and position the teens to be advocates for justice and social change in their current and future communities.
Meet our Game Changers Participants and read what their experience was like in Minneapolis:
Alonso has been a highly engaged participant with First Tee – Silicon Valley since 2022. He has been a participant, volunteer coach, volunteer admin, and a Junior Council member. He was selected by FTSV staff as the 2025 FTSV’s Junior Coach of the Year, and the 2026 Joyce Taylor Eagle Award recipient due to his outstanding contribution to the chapter, engagement within the chapter, and his high character. Outside of First Tee, Alonso is the District 2 Representative on the Valley Water Youth Commission and a Valley Water Adopt-a-Creek Junior Partner in Canoas Creek. Alonso is also an Advance Placement Scholar with Distinction and has received the Santa Clara County Office of Education’s Seal of Biliteracy. He will be attending Fordham University starting this fall.
Alonso recaps his experience:
“Attending the Game Changers Academy was an incredibly rewarding experience for me. The trip itself was unforgettable, being my first time outside the West Coast, and even my first time flying! One of the real highlights for me was connecting with my fellow Game Changers from different chapters all over the country and hearing their experiences with First Tee and in their communities. I was a bit nervous going into the opportunity that my golf skills wouldn’t be up to par, but the coaches and chaperones made the playing welcoming and supportive from Eagle Lake to Interlachen. The workshops on positive self-talk, overcoming imposter syndrome, and how to be an inclusive leader are lessons I will carry with me to college. I was so inspired by my Game Changer experience that I’ve been booking tee times nearly every day since!”
Adam has been involved with FTSV for the past 4 years and regularly takes our Ace classes. Adam is a unifier, an emotional tank-filler, and a natural leader. He is well respected by all of his peers and FTSV staff for how he carries himself, how he treats and includes everyone, and how he elevates the morale of every class that he is in. He has amassed over 100 volunteer hours with us. He has led several subcommittees in our Junior Council and helped plan our Family Fest, and our upcoming Open House event. In school, Adam has earned the Presidential Volunteer Service Award and the California Junior Scholarship Foundation Award.
Julia has been a participant and volunteer coach since 2024. She is one of our go-to coaches at Gavilan Golf Course and is a leader in our Ace classes. Last year, she joined the Junior Council and was determined to learn more about event planning and management. She became the Event Planning Committee Chair within the Junior Council and coordinated an event that celebrated and recognized youth volunteers. Recently, Julia was awarded the Victor M. Arrañaga, Jr. Leadership Award. She was also selected to deliver a speech at a fundraiser on our behalf. Julia will be attending Cal Poly SLO this Fall majoring in Event Planning & Management and Interior Architecture & Design.
Julia recaps her experience:
“Participating in Game Changers has truly contributed to my personal growth, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a meaningful experience. I have been extremely moved by all the care and commitment The First Tee has put into their Game Changers Academy in Minneapolis. Each day was filled with meaningful activities that helped us get to know each other, but more importantly ourselves as young adults. The experience was more than representing our chapters; it was about what we could learn from the carefully executed workshops and take back to our communities. The diversity of each chapter from countless different states fostered such an amazing blend of new perspectives that were all valued, and I am truly honored to have been a part of this Academy.”
Varnika has been engaged with FTSV for five years. Starting at the PLAYer level, Varnika quickly moved up to become an Ace level participant. Although she began as a quiet and shy participant, Varnika blossomed into a confident young woman who now seizes every public speaking opportunity available. She was a dedicated member of our Junior Council, where she helped coordinate, budget, and inventory our quarterly Girls’ Golf events, while also serving as an inspiring mentor to our younger female golfers. Varnika accumulated an impressive 247 volunteer coaching hours within FTSV. Outside of FTSV she is a District Office Intern for the Office of Assemblymember Ash Karla and is a Legislative Affairs Officer where she helped secure $13.2 million from Santa Clara County to fund wellness centers at 40 schools. Varnika will be attending NYU starting this fall.
Varnika recaps her experience:
“During the first workshop, we learned to turn our negative thoughts into positive affirmations. Later that day on the golf course, right before I hit my driver on a long hole, a voice in my head told me, “Everyone’s watching.” I realized this is exactly what the workshop had been talking about. I chose to remind myself that I can do difficult things, and I aim to carry that mindset with me for the rest of my life. This experience was one of the best experiences in my life.”
First Tee Game Changers Academy Honoring Joe Louis Barrow, Jr. 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. The Academy honors First Tee’s former CEO, Joe Louis Barrow, Jr., who led the organization from 2000 until his retirement in 2017.
Congratulations to all four of these amazing participants! We are very proud of you.
Click here to view more information on the National Opportunities.
(First Tee – Silicon Valley Brings Home First-Ever NorCal Cup Title – Published 08/07/26) On July 27, 2026, six First Tee – Silicon Valley participants traveled to Del Rio Country Club in Modesto and made chapter history — winning the NorCal Cup for the first time, all while battling a scorching 95-degree day on a demanding course.
The NorCal Cup takes place every summer between the following First Tee Chapters – Central Valley, Tri-Valley, Silicon Valley, Contra Costa, Fresno, Greater Sacramento, San Joaquin, and San Francisco. All Northern California chapters are great partners with one another, and we turn to each other for assistance and collaboration. The NorCal Cup is a great opportunity for the chapter participants to represent their chapter, make new friends and compete in a fun tournament together.
Each team of 6 participants compete in a stroke play format. The team’s four best net scores count towards the final total. Thank you to Coach Manny and Coach Alex who coached and supported our team.
A special thank you to the host chapter and 2025 winner, First Tee Central Valley.
The Results
Jesse J — Net 67
Suri L — Net 69
Dakota C — Net 70
Ben H — Net 78
Adam R — Net 87
Brady S — Net 89
Suri turned in a standout individual performance, taking home both the gross overall award (74) and women’s low net honors (69).
More Than a Trophy
For Coach Alex Wrobel and the coaching staff, the win itself was only part of the story. What stood out most was how the players carried themselves on the course — leaning on the interpersonal and life skills FTSV works to instill in every participant.
Suri stepped up as team captain, helping every teammate stay relaxed before they even teed off. Ben and Jesse leaned on each other for encouragement and support throughout their round. Adam and Brady demonstrated perseverance and resilience. And Dakota brought her signature positivity to the day, lifting up not just her own teammate but her opponents as well.
“It was wonderful to see the lessons we teach on full display throughout the entire tournament,” Coach Manny shared.
In Their Own Words
Dakota found herself paired with two players she’d never played with before — a chance to put FTSV’s lessons into practice in real time.
“As someone who doesn’t often play with random people, this tournament provided an easier environment to push myself outside my comfort zone and utilize the interpersonal skills First Tee has taught me,” Dakota said.
Watching her teammates celebrate at the medal ceremony made the day one she won’t forget — though she noted she’d have walked away just as satisfied even without the win, simply for having represented her chapter well.
Suri described the tournament as a chance to connect with the wider First Tee community.
“I am very blessed to participate at the First Tee NorCal. Being given to opportunity to play at such a beautiful, well-kept course and getting to know other First Tee chapters has been very memorable. Every single First Tee participant showed up with a positive mindset and good golf etiquette. It is such an honor to represent Silicon Valley and to be the first ever Silicon Valley team to bring home the trophy because it has taught me another life lesson. Focus on the future, not the past.”
Adam credited his group’s energy — and a little karaoke — for making the round memorable.
“I had a great time participating in the NorCal Cup this week at Del Rio. I had a blast with the group I was paired with, as no one let the difficult course or the blazing heat prevent them from bringing their full selves and spirit. As a group we joked, laughed and sang “Sunroof” together as we played throughout the round. And to the fellow champions here in Silicon Valley, I cannot be prouder for the friends and teammates that formed it–from those who I’ve known for years at Rancho, but also to the new friends I had just met from Gilroy–I seriously cannot be prouder and happier to have been a part of such an excellent team to bring home the gold. I can’t wait to see what we are able to bring next year!”
Ben got to play alongside one of his best friends, which he says gave him extra confidence and helped him stay focused all day.
“I’m really grateful I had the chance to be part of the NorCal Tournament. It was awesome getting to play with someone from my own area because we already knew each other well and worked great as a team. That made me feel more confident, helped me stay focused, and made the whole experience even more fun. It was also really cool meeting and playing with golfers from different areas. Being paired with one of my best friends made it even more special. I learned a lot, met some great people, and made memories I won’t forget.”
Jesse admitted to some early nerves, unsure how tough the course or the competition would be.
“Seeing the golf course and all the players for the first time made me feel nervous because I didn’t know how difficult the course would be or how skilled the kids were. However, as the tournament went on, I became more comfortable, enjoyed playing each hole, and realized that almost everyone was there to have a good time. Meeting First Tee Participants from different chapters made the tournament experience exciting because it allowed me to connect with others who play golf and enjoy the small competitive atmosphere. One of the best parts of this tournament was playing alongside Ben; the conversations, encouragement, and fun we had together shaped this event to be more memorable and enjoyable.”
Congratulations to Jesse, Suri, Dakota, Ben, Adam, and Brady. Congratulations to all the chapters and chapter participants! Thank you for being respectful and resilient.
First Tee – Silicon Valley will host the cup next year and we look forward to having everyone from these other chapters out to our neck of the woods.
(Julia Villa Receives 2026 Victor M. Arrañaga, Jr. Leadership Award – Published 7/27/2026) The Victor M. Arrañaga, Jr. Leadership Award was created by First Tee – Silicon Valley (FTSV) to recognize a Participant of Good Character, Academic Achievement & Demonstrated Leadership. The $5,000 scholarship was awarded to Julia Villa at the FTSV 2026 Invitational fundraiser on Sunday, July 19th at CordeValle in San Martin, CA.
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.
Julia Villa Receives Victor M. Arrañaga, Jr. Award – Julia was unable to attend the Invitational to tell her story in-person, as she was selected by a national group of First Tee judges to represent our chapter at the First Tee Game Changers Academy in Minneapolis.
“First Tee – Silicon Valley’s appreciation and commitment to diversity helped me feel like I belonged.” Julia continued, “This type of inclusivity and unity is truly one of a kind, and as a Latina female golfer, it gave me the confidence to be myself. Unfortunately, away from the First Tee – Silicon Valley, such inclusivity and support wasn’t what I experienced, and my confidence suffered as a result. For example, during my freshman year of high school, I attempted to try out for my school’s golf team, but was discouraged from trying out because I was told it would be too competitive. Naturally, this caused me to feel inadequate and made me form a negative opinion on golf. Why would I be told what I can’t do? That discouragement held me back for two years. Yes, it took me two years to realize this is a game and space for me. I’m happy to say that the First Tee Silicon Valley not only gave me the confidence back, but it gave me the confidence to try new opportunities.”
“As my self-belief and confidence grew, I felt more and more excited about my future. First Tee – Silicon Valley helped me discover my future plans and gave me the space and opportunity to develop to develop the necessary professional skills, I was interested in event coordination, so I shadowed the First Tee Silicon Valley’s marketing coordinator, Nicole Woodson, and learned about event marketing and coordination from start to finish. I learned group collaboration skills, how to organize and structure event agendas, and practice the professional correspondence. Then she and my coaches encouraged me to be the lead of the first tee Junior Council Committee. I was in charge of planning our Junior Council Appreciation Party. Because of this experience, I’m happy to announce that in the fall I’ll be attending Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, majoring in Experience Industry Management with a concentration in event planning.”
(Thank You Sarah Beelaard and Steve Almassy for Your Service and Leadership! – Published 7/09/2026) On behalf of First Tee – Silicon Valley, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Board Directors Sarah Beelaard and Steve Almassy as they complete their terms of service. Your leadership, dedication, and generosity have helped strengthen our mission and expand opportunities for young people across our community.
Throughout your time on board, you have given your time, insight, and commitment to support programs that build character, confidence, and life skills through the game of golf. Your contributions have made a meaningful and lasting difference for the participants, families, coaches, and partners we serve.
We are deeply grateful for the thoughtful guidance you provided, the relationships you helped cultivate, and the example of service you set for others. While your board terms have concluded, your impact will continue to be felt in the work of First Tee – Silicon Valley for years to come.
Thank you for your outstanding service and commitment. We wish you all the best and look forward to staying connected as valued members of the First Tee – Silicon Valley family.
If you are interested in becoming a board member, visit Our Board page to get started. Contact Beth Williams if you have any questions [email protected].
(FTSV Participant and Coach Jennifer Barrientos Receives Scholarship via Youth on Course – Published 7/09/2026) Jennifer Barrientos is the 2026 recipient of the Youth on Course College Scholarship! She will be the first in her family to attend a 4-year college and we couldn’t be more proud of her.
Her journey with us began in 2018 at our Parent University outreach event for Alum Rock Unified School District’s participants and families. At the time she attended O.S Hubbard Elementary in Alum Rock. Our Operations Assistant, Lina Herrera Peña attended the event and spoke with her and her family about our program. “Watching them participate together in the activities and seeing how excited the children were about golf allowed me to share with them the purpose and opportunities that come from being in First Tee,” said Lina. “What resonated with them the most was our program’s commitment to teaching life skills through golf while also preparing participants for the future beyond high school.”
According to Jennifer, “Before joining FTSV, all I knew about golf was that it was expensive and difficult to play. It was foreign to me and my family and not something we thought was going to be an option. FTSV offered my sister and I financial assistance, which made it possible for us to join the program. True to what my mom always taught us, I did not take this opportunity for granted. Now I am here receiving multiple scholarships to college!”
She further highlights the impact that FTSV has had on her and her family, “My mom is a single mom and takes care of all three of us. She tries her best to give us what we need. I have a responsibility to my mom, sister, and brother. We are in this together and I embrace the challenge of being a role model and taking care of my mom. In FTSV, we learned that responsibility requires setting goals and following through on promises. I will continue to work hard in golf, my education, and my career to make myself, and my family proud.”
Fast forward 8 years and she has been one of the most engaged participants and coaches that we have ever had. She has taken all of our classes across all age groups, participated in and coached our Girls Golf program, assisted at our outreach events by speaking Spanish to families, became a volunteer life and golf coach, and now that she graduated is a paid coach with us over the summer. As a result of her contributions and her high character, she was selected to attend the First Tee John Deere Drive Your Future Academy in Florida, which is a female empowerment event recognizing young women who are motivated to influence positive impact at their Chapters, schools, and communities. In 2022, FTSV selected her as our Dennis Kettmann College Scholarship recipient. She also received the Latino Education Advancement Foundation Scholarship and was a finalist for the Posse Foundation Scholar Program, which connected her with St Olaf and their scholarship fund.
In addition to the opportunities and scholarships, she credits FTSV with helping her “learn how to network, mentor, collaborate, and set goals. The impact my FTSV coaches have had on me is beyond explainable. They have always been there for me, guided me, gave me advice from their personal experience, and tied it back to what I can do for my personal impact.”
Networking and setting goals helped her get jobs throughout high school to save up money for college. That, together with her earned scholarships, is making it possible for her to accomplish her dream of being the first in her family to go to a 4-year college. This fall she will be attending St Olaf in Minnesota!
“I have so many good memories with First Tee – Silicon Valley and I’m extremely grateful for everything they have given me – national opportunities, personal growth, and most importantly, such a supportive community where I was able to learn and adapt.”
Congratulations, Jennifer. We are so proud of and happy for you, and we are excited for your next steps in life.
To join our program as Jennifer did, please visit here. Financial aid is available, and we don’t turn anyone away.
To read more about our local, regional and national opportunities, please click here.
(New Staff Spotlight: Meet Nancy Rivera – Published 7/09/2026) First Tee – Silicon Valley is excited to welcome our newest Program Coordinator, Nancy Rivera. Although, Nancy is not new to FTSV and not new to the spotlight, she is a very welcome addition to our full-time staff. Her main areas of focus, aside from coaching, will be to oversee the First Tee – Silicon Valley Alumni Club and Community Outreach. Having a local alumni club will allow us to continue strengthening bonds and community as fellow alumni navigate the professional stage of life.
Nancy began her journey with FTSV in 2017 and racked up a series of well-deserved honors during her time as a highly engaged participant. Her hard work, dedication, and high character led to her being nationally selected attend to First Tee national opportunities such as the First Tee Game Changers Academy, Innovators Forum, and Leadership Summit.
After she graduated high school, Nancy was awarded the First Tee College Scholar Program, joining a class of 25 scholars who earned this honor based on their academic performance, length and involvement in First Tee programs, financial need, and commitment to volunteerism. This program’s financial assistance, along with her award of the Innovators Forum scholarship and FTSV’s Joyce Taylor Eagle Award and scholarship, helped her achieve her dream of being a first-generation college student when she chose to attend Middlebury College in Vermont. While at Middlebury she was selected for the Patrick J. Durkin ’79 Public Service Leadership Award, a prestigious honor given to students who demonstrate a special dedication to public service at Middlebury College.
We sat down with Nancy to ask some questions.
What does the FTSV mean to you as an Alum?
“To me, FTSV means having a lifelong community. No matter where I am in the country, the First Tee has become my home away from home. As I moved from the West Coast to the East Coast for College, my First Tee family, both from my home chapter and others, have become an incredible support system in my life in general. Whether it is just general life advice or guidance related to school or work, I know there is always someone I can reach out to. Even if they don’t have the answer, they’ll always offer support or connect me with the right resources. Being an alumni means that you know there’s people in your corner through the relationships you’ve built throughout the years and that doesn’t just end when you leave a chapter or graduate, they stay with you wherever you go.”
What impact has the program had on you?
“Since I joined the First Tee, the trajectory of my life has changed tremendously. I always give credit to the First Tee and the coaches for helping me become the first person in my family to graduate college. This program has truly shaped me into the person I am today. It has also inspired my future career aspirations, and given me the confidence to pursue opportunities I had never even thought about before.”
What are your goals in your position?
“As far as Alumni Club I would love for all of us to see the First Tee as a place that brings us back together and helps us stay connected, even after graduating from the program. More broadly I would love for every participant and their families to feel welcomed, supported and valued at First Tee. I want them to see us as a community where they can meet new people, and build meaningful relationships that go beyond our weekly class.”
(From Flip-Flops to Backpacks: Navigating the Summer-to-School Shift – Published 7/09/2026) As we ditch the long summer days of pools, camps, gaming, extended vacations, sleepovers, and late-night hangouts — and transition into bedtimes, homework, and shorter days — it’s important to help youth slide into the new routine with ease and confidence.
Here are some quick tips to help you make this transition a little easier.
Create a Routine
Create a daily routine or personal calendar. Treat your routine as your best friend, when things get crazy, rely on your specific routine to give you control.
Stay Active
Get out in nature. Our brain activity/electricity tend to be high with so much stimulation and stress. Going on walks, playing sports, and exercising are proven ways to reduce the brain electricity, which increase our functional capacity, help us stay in the present, and access more of our brain.
Enroll in Extracurriculars
Extracurriculars are an important part of all kids’ routines throughout their school years. “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.”
Register for FALL FTSV Program
We can be an option that addresses all three tips.
Routine
Pick a class, once a week for 8 weeks, same day, time, and location each week. Your class will help form a routine
Learn about setting goals and routines in life and in golf
Active
98% of our students say their coaches kept them active and playing.
Our philosophy is to learn by doing and asking. All of our classes have games for the students to play, where they tie in their life and golf skills
Extracurricular
Our classes are fun opportunities to build relationships, confidence, teamwork, and learn a sport that one can play their whole lives.
Our proven Life Skill curriculum connects well to school values and characteristics that lead to school success.
The First Tee – Silicon Valley FALL 2026 Classes begin September 8thRegistration for our Fall 2026 Classes opens Wednesday, August 12th at 11am. Register for an 8-week set of classes at one of our three locations:
Classes are open to all youth from 2nd to 12th grade. Equipment Provided. Financial aid is available on a sliding scale and can reduce the fee to $20-$180.
(FTSV Participant Natalie Chen selected for the First Tee College Scholar Program – Published 7/09/2026) First Tee Silicon Valley participant Natalie Chen has been selected by FT Headquarters to become a part of the 2026 College Scholar Program. Congratulations, Natalie!!! She is one of 22 selected participants from all First Tee chapters world-wide.
The First Tee College Scholarship Program provides valuable, life-changing opportunities for the youth of First Tee and helps them prepare for success in and after college.
This program awards participants who excel in academics, leadership, character development, and chapter and community involvement. Thanks to generous donors, First Tee offers up to a $20,000 scholarship, mentoring throughout the college experience, professional development workshops, and assistance in securing internships and jobs.
Natalie always takes on and thrives in challenges. She began taking our classes in the 3rd grade, coming from a family that wasn’t very familiar with golf. From the beginning, Natalie has felt right at home, saying “First Tee was very welcoming…[they] set the stepping stones for me to build the confidence to walk on to a golf course and know what to do.” After many seasons with FTSV, Natalie earned a spot on her school’s varsity golf team. On the team she even has friends who she met through FTSV, other people who she knows she can rely on, both on and off of the course.
Natalie also joined our Junior Council and led a few the Council’s subcommittees including our Girls Golf events and our Family Fest. She excelled in our Ace classes and took our Leadership Series with the PGA Tour Superstore. As a result of her performances and leadership, she was selected to attend the 2024 First Tee Leadership Summit.
Throughout her time as a high school participant, Natalie took on the challenge of being a volunteer coach. During this time, she became one of our most trusted and tenured junior volunteer coaches and has now transitioned to a hired-staff coach. As her responsibilities grow, she grows as a leader. According to Natalie, “I love it so much. I really like teaching the little kids, they are like little brothers and sisters to me. First Tee has helped me build on my leadership in the program and at school, such as taking the lead and initiating conversations.I have learned how to manage a group of people, open up to others, and make space for everyone to share ideas and feel included.”
Natalie Chen attends the First Tee College Scholar Pre-College retreat
Natalie, reflects on the First Tee Scholars Pre-College Retreat:
“Between all the excitement of preparing for college, the Pre-College Retreat gave me a chance to reflect on the kind of person I want to be and the relationships I want to build when I arrive on campus. Throughout the week, we explored resilience, leadership, and networking through interactive sessions and speaker panels that encouraged vulnerable conversations. A few sessions especially stuck with me. Patric Young’s story was a powerful reminder that resilience starts with gratitude and the mindset to keep moving forward when life doesn’t go as planned. I also appreciated Carrie Zimmerman’s Networking 101 session, where we practiced entering and exiting professional conversations with confidence. The Mentor/Mentee Panel was another highlight, offering honest advice on how to build meaningful relationships with the mentors who will support us throughout our college journey.”
“One of my favorite parts of the retreat was our service project at Vicar’s Landing Retirement Community. We painted canvases for residents before spending time talking with them one-on-one!”
“More than anything, it was the people who made the week so memorable! It was such a privilege to spend the week with my fellow scholars who were not only incredibly accomplished, but also funny, thoughtful, and genuinely kind. Everyone brought a different perspective to the week, and I learned just as much from the conversations with them as I did from the sessions themselves. I left Florida with friendships that span across the country, and I’m very grateful to have found a community I’ll stay connected with for years to come!”
This Scholar Retreat is one of two every year for the duration of her time in College.
Natalie will be using the lessons from this retreat and the lessons learned while at FTSV at Stanford University in the Fall. Congratulations, Natalie! We are incredibly proud of you!
Applications for the First Tee College Scholarship Program are accepted once per year from seniors in high school who meet the minimum eligibility requirements. If you are interested in learning more about the College Scholarship Program or are interested in applying, please email Coach Manny at [email protected] and click here. Click here to watch the video of the College Scholar Program
(KRTY Writers Cup Benefits First Tee – Silicon Valley – Published 7/06/2026) The 2026 KRTY.COM Writers Cup will benefit First Tee – Silicon Valley. Join some of Nashville’s country music songwriters on Wednesday, September 30th at Cinnabar Hills Golf Club for a day of golf, guitars and giving back!
Writers participating in this year’s KRTY.COM Writers Cup:
Casey Brown, Ben Williams, Lily Rose, Blake Pendergrass, Parker Welling and 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.
(Girls Golf Spring Play Day – Bring a Friend! Published 6/12/2026) Twenty-four participants — including some specially invited friends — came out on a sunny spring Saturday to create memories, build friendships, and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with playing fun golf games. This season’s theme celebrated Best Animated Movie Friends, bringing beloved characters to life all across the course. Our FTSV participants also brought their friends to join them in the festivities.
The day kicked off with casual warm-up games including cornhole, giant Jenga, and bucket toss. A creative bow decoration station added an extra splash of personality to the festivities.
Games On the Course
Hole 1 – Animated Putting Maze
The girls were challenged to drive the ball through an intricate putting maze featuring fun animated bestie characters scattered throughout.
Hole 2 – Chipping Tic-Tac-Toe
Players chipped their ball into a Tic-Tac-Toe grid, going head-to-head against an opponent in a game that blended short-game skill with a classic battle of wits.
Hole 8 – Foot-Golf!
Clubs down — participants switched it up with a round of Foot-Golf, kicking it in a whole new direction and getting plenty of laughs along the way.
Hole 9 – Chipping Through Hoops To close out the course, the girls practiced chipping through hoops and into the sand — a skill-builder wrapped in just the right amount of challenge.
The Wrap-Up
To close out the day, everyone returned to the bow making station — which proved so popular the girls dove right back in for a second round of crafting. While the casual lawn games remained in full swing, participants enjoyed pizza together, celebrating a day well played.
Thank-You Coaches!
Thank you to our adult and junior coaching staff… Angelina, Christine, Dahlia, Julia, Julia V., Natalie, Sui, Vikrant, Tiffany, Varnika, and Gracie
Thank you to the Junior Council
The Girls Golf Junior Council Planning Committee, including Tiana, whose creativity and effort helped make the day a success.
Thank you Sponsors & Donors
A heartfelt thank-you to the Boulder Ridge Ladies Tournament, which raises money specifically to support Girls Golf events at First Tee – Silicon Valley.
Stay Connected
To learn more about FTSV’s Girls Golf program, contact Manny Gallardo at [email protected] or 408-508-4887.
