(Change the Game for MORE Kids in 2026! – Published 10/03/25) First Tee – Silicon Valley invites you to make a monthly pledge (beginning now or starting in this coming year) to help us Change the Game for MORE Kids & Teens!
Make your monthly pledge today—and help us Change the Game for MORE Kids & Teens tomorrow.
Help us grow our impact and the number of kids & teens we serve!
Our youth development programs are accessible to youth of different backgrounds and perspectives and affordable to families experiencing financial hardship. We care for kids with safe spaces, quality coaches, character curriculum, and a culture of respect.
Course Program — ensure high quality classes that are affordable and accessible to all (full cost for one participant to take an 8-week class = $500 – or pledge $40 per month)
School Program — equip teachers to deliver our curriculum in their setting (cost of equipment, training, and curriculum per school = $2,000 – or pledge $165 per month)
Opportunities — provide our kids with special experiences outside of our classes (cost of quarterly tournaments or scholarship = $5,000 – or pledge $415 per month)
Thanks to our 25-year agreement for expanded access at Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course, our capacity has doubled. That means we now have the ability to reach 10,000 kids & teens annually—but growing our impact requires the financial support of people like you. Your monthly pledge makes it possible for us to deliver on this opportunity.
Mentoring is Priceless.
Think about the mentor who made a difference in your life. That kind of guidance—listening, encouragement, and wisdom—shapes kids forever. Over the years, First Tee – Silicon Valley has provided this transformative mentorship to more than 100,000 young people. Your steady monthly support ensures every child in our program has a mentor by their side.
Long-Term Impact That Lasts a Lifetime.
We’re proud of the results our youth development program delivers:
100% of our long-term participants graduate high school.
100% go on to college.
100% gain life skills that make them caring, responsible citizens.
75% of our high school participants give back as junior mentors.
This kind of consistency is possible only when our supporters are consistent too. That’s why monthly pledges are so vital.
Kids Need Us Now More Than Ever.
Social pressures, loneliness, mental health challenges, family struggles, and inequities across Silicon Valley weigh heavily on today’s youth. At FTSV, we provide a safe, supportive, and inclusive community where kids are free to be themselves and discover their inner strength.
A National Leader with Local Heart.
Among the 140 First Tee chapters nationwide, First Tee – Silicon Valley leads the way:
85% participant diversity
48% from low-income households
55% retention rate
75% Teen retention
1:4 mentor-to-kid ratio
These numbers reflect our commitment to making sure every kid & teen has access to caring mentors and meaningful opportunities.
Be Part of the Change and Change the Game for MORE Kids in 2026!
As we look to 2026, we need your help to build on this momentum. A monthly pledge is the most powerful way you can support our kids & teens. Your commitment provides the stability and resources necessary to help thousands of youth grow into resilient, confident, and compassionate leaders.
(Participant Spotlight: Walton Li – Published 10/03/25) This month’s spotlight is on Walton Li, an FTSV participant since the age of 7, and now a volunteer coach, founder of a non-profit golf teaching program, and aspiring pediatrician. Walton is an exceptional member of FTSV, someone who embodies each and every one of our life skills and always seeks to serve his community. Walton took the time to sit down for an interview for this month’s spotlight:
What is your FTSV story? How long have you been a participant and volunteer?
“I joined the First Tee as a participant when I was 7 years old. One of my most vivid memories as a student was a coach pointing out my knack for choosing the right club. That short yet powerful compliment not only gave me confidence but also made me realize golf wasn’t just about power. Instead, it was about strategy, problem-solving, and patience. What started as just another sport to try eventually became a passion. First Tee laid the foundation for my love of the game. Now, as an FTSV volunteer coach, I am proud to be part of what shaped me, and am excited to pass on that same joy, confidence, and passion to the next generation of golfers. To date, I have been volunteering with the First Tee for three and a half years and have contributed around 450 hours during that time. Volunteering has become an essential part of my life, not only because I get to practice talking to the people I mentor, but also because it is a form of therapy for me. Being in high school has been stressful, but the thought of coaching and teaching my students golf and life skills every Saturday is something I look forward to and channel positive energy towards. In addition, the coaching staff at FTSV is a community I cannot find anywhere else in my life. The people I work with are some of the most supportive people I have ever met, and enable me to constantly improve myself, not only in golf, but also in my life. Finding myself coaching for an organization that gave me the gift of golf is a full circle moment that I find fascinating, and I hope other participants can experience the same.“
Tell us more about the non-profit work that you do outside of FTSV.
“Outside of FTSV, I’ve created Follow Through Golf, the first golf teaching program in NorCal that specializes in those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). I noticed that some participants with autism struggle if they are in a setting that isn’t suitable for their needs. This inspired me to build a more adaptive and specialized environment where they could learn at their own pace, gain confidence, and feel included. After receiving certification through the Ernie Els GameON Autism Golf Foundation as a golf instructor, I began teaching 5 students then later expanded it to 27. Moving lessons to miniature golf courses, I discovered how a calmer, creative environment could reduce stress and help students thrive. This experience has been meaningful because I’ve seen kids not only learn technical skills but also recognize their own capabilities. Seeing them overcome challenges that they initially faced has taught me that progress comes from adaptation and inclusive systems. In addition, it further reinforced my desire to become a pediatrician in the future, providing meaningful care for adolescents.”
You recently played in the PURE Insurance Championship at Pebble Beach. Tell us about that experience and what you learned.
“The PURE Insurance Championship at Pebble Beach was, to me, a reminder of how far I had come through the game. Meeting and playing with amateurs and senior professionals showed me the importance of building relationships and learning from other people. On the first tournament day, I was playing with my pro John Senden, as well as amateurs MD Manouel and Sanjeev Mehra. As I got to know each of them well and learned about their experiences, I realized that everyone in our tee-time was someone that had made a difference by initiating and founding. Senden had founded PlayYellow, an organization that raises money for kids with cancer by tying in golf. For example, they do a massive fundraiser with TopGolf every year and donate all proceeds to children’ s hospitals. Manouel had owned an insurance company, and Mehra founded Periphas Capital. Meeting these people who had all started something just like me but had brought their initiatives to a massively successful scale was eye-opening, because I was able to get so much insight out of them, and was able to hear the process it took to get to where they are now. Another really life-changing experience was hearing that Senden was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. As someone who has done extensive work with helping children overcome obstacles of their own, seeing someone like Senden perform so well at Pebble Beach despite a motor impairment showed me that it was possible to overcome challenges. To me, he is a role model of what it means to truly love a sport. He adapts to a challenge and shows up to a tournament to support the next generation of golfers.”
How has what you learned through First Tee helped you in other areas of life?
“Because of FTSV, I learned that growth is not something that stops once you think you’ve “figured yourself out.” Instead, it really is something that continues as long as challenges keep coming your way, and you find ways to improve yourself. When I first joined FTSV as a volunteer coach, I had believed that I had no room left to grow, but my experiences at FTSV showed me how much I had to learn. With the guidance of coaches like Coach Joe Stuban (awesome guy), I began to grow as a coach, leader, and mentor. Using perseverance, confidence, and adaptability, I am changing the lives of others with the work I do. In addition to the First Tee students upon whom I impart skills and values, I also educate hundreds on the importance of HBV vaccinations, speak to classrooms full of students on the dangers of e-cigarettes, and extend golf learning to those in California who suffer from ASD. What makes FTSV remarkable in my eyes is the fact that you can learn, no matter how or where you are involved. Whether I was a student, coach, or a player sent to PURE, I found potential for growth and grew exponentially. These lessons have shaped me into someone who aspires to be a pediatrician, helping young people reach their potential, just like FTSV did for me.”
Do you have any advice for participants to help them get the most out of their experience here?
“My advice for participants is to not be afraid of standing out. It’s natural to want to fit in, but the moments that grow you are the ones where you are yourself. Whether you’re raising your hand or asking for an opportunity, standing out is what makes someone a leader.“
Walton’s work with FTSV, Follow Through Golf, and everything else he’s involved in is nothing short of inspiring. Him sticking with the game of golf up, embracing the values of FTSV, dedicating himself to them every day, and choosing to give back has led to many successes and personal fulfillment, and is a lesson to us all. Everyone at FTSV is proud to feature you in this spotlight article, Walton. Keep up the amazing work!
If your child is interested in golf or looking for a new extracurricular activity where they can learn, grow, and become part of something bigger than themself, consider enrolling them in FTSV programming. There are tons of opportunities for important early development for younger students, and equally as many for leadership and growth for middle and high schoolers. Visit our YOUTH PROGRAMS page for more information.
(FTSV & Acer – Leadership & Golf Clinic @ Stanford – Published: 10/02/25) On Friday 9/19, Acer partnered with First Tee – Silicon Valley to bring a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to 40 FTSV middle school girls hosted at Stanford University.
The mission for the “Build Your Leadership Journey” event/clinic presented by Acer was to empower the next generation through sport, providing leadership curriculum, golf instruction and successful professional role models to the 40 girls.
Later that morning the girls then had a Q&A session with a stellar executive female leadership panel. Click here to read the bio of the female leaders and the group facilitators.
After lunch the group moved to Stanford’s Siebel Varsity Golf Training Complex. Here the Stanford Women’s Golf Team helped lead golf clinic stations. Once the golf clinic was over, the girls had a Q&A/autograph session with the team.
Last but not least, Acer’s Vice President of Marketing, Richard Black, surprised the girls with Acer laptop workbooks that they got to take home! Needless to say, the girls were over the moon excited.
We can’t thank the following people enough for making this event happen and for including our FTSV participants in this transformational opportunity.
Jennifer Brien
Nicole Lee
Maria Horning
Kyle Gode
Matt Siert
Richard Black
A big thank you also goes out to our FTSV coaches/chaperones/group facilitators – April Kenyon, Tracy Cone, Tiffany Sparks, Ysabelle Lam, Andrea Brenholz, and Angelina Huang.
In the training, Maria quoted the following African proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” To this point, the girls all wrote letters of inspiration to younger FTSV girls. Hopefully their messages will inspire, lift others up, and give others a sense of comfort that they are not alone.
(FTSV Benefits from the 5th Annual Fund the Kids Tournament – Published 10/2/25) First Tee – Silicon Valley (FTSV) benefits from the 5th Annual Fund the Kids tournament sponsored by Jacobs. On Saturday, September 27th, Jacobs hosted 72 golfers at Gilroy Golf Course as they played 18 holes and on-course games, like Cornhole and Connect Four. This tournament was also a special Memorial Tournament Honoring Saeid Vaziry, an Environmental Programs Manager for the City of Gilroy. Saeid’s family was on-hand during the tournament to volunteer and play in a foursome. Players were then treated to lunch, raffle and an inspirational speech from FTSV teen participant and volunteer coach, Julia Villa.
Julia shared her journey with First Tee – Silicon Valley and how their inclusive, family-like community helped her feel like she belonged as a latina woman, instilled self-confidence, and gave her tools to help develop professionally.
FTSV would like to thank Presenting Sponsor Jacobs, all the supporting, hosting, and contest sponsors, and players for raising over $16K which will go to help MORE kids in South County. The funds are a big help to First Tee – Silicon Valley.
Thank you to ALL the Sponsors:
Carollo Engineers – Superior Sanitation – Cintas Inc. – Valley Top Inc. – JE Phillips Co Inc & Hartzell Air – Jess Ranch Trucking – United Rentals – Advance Air Flow Measurement – Energy Experts International – Legion – Skylake Tree Services – Novatech Services – Koffler Electrical Mechanical – True Blue Automation – Control Solutions Inc. – Rexel USA – Pan Pacific Supply – Toro Petroleum
Jacobs has been the Contract Operator for the South County Regional Wastewater Authority (SCRWA) plant in Gilroy since 1984. Tournament Coordinator, Kerry Edmonds, said, “Community involvement is an extension of the Jacobs’ and the SCRWA culture. They care about their surrounding communities which is why we felt compelled to sponsor the 5th Annual Fund the Kids Golf Tournament, benefiting First Tee – Silicon Valley and will do it again next year.”
Tournament Results:
First Place: Kerry Edmonds, John Torres, Scott Stephens, Melinda Stephens
Closest to the Hole – Women: Melinda Stephens
Closest to the Hole – Men: Scott Stephens
Long Drive – Womens: Jackie Torres
Long Drive – Mens: Michael IbarraPutting Contest – “Happy Saeid” Putting contest with Hockey Sticks: Grant Kehrig, John Hernandez, Jesus Begines, Arturo Begines.
If you have an upcoming tournament and would like to make First Tee – Silicon Valley the beneficiary, please Contact Nicole Woodson.
(PARdon Me – written by Joe Bronson – benefits FTSV Published: 9/24/2025)Joe Bronson, friend of First Tee – Silicon Valley, has written his latest book, ‘PARdon Me: 50 Years of Golf, One Hole at a Time’, published in July 2025. Joe is passionate about the game of golf. Proceeds from his book sales are given to organizations like First Tee – Silicon Valley and others that support golf in the community.
“From tee to green, Joe Bronson brings his passion for golf to life in PARdon Me, the third installment in his celebrated series. Drawing from decades of experience both as a dedicated amateur golfer and a seasoned observer of the sport, Bronson delivers a captivating collection of personal stories and reflections on the ever-challenging game. Bronson takes readers on a journey through iconic courses, unforgettable rounds, and his musings on the evolution of golf-from the golden days pre-pandemic to the new boom in popularity. With chapters covering the highs and lows of playing alone, battling slow play, and the challenges of professional tournaments, Bronson offers a unique perspective on what makes golf such a special game.”
(Participant Spotlight: Alonso Jose – Published 9/12/25) This month’s Participant Spotlight is on Alonso Jose, a long-time participant and now volunteer who embodies many FTSV values and core life skills on and off the course. Alonso began his journey with First Tee – Silicon Valley back in 2022, and since then has enrolled in nearly 20 different classes – over 5 per year! Alonso reflected on his early class experiences, “I still remember my very first class; it poured so hard that we had to stay in the back of the pro shop. Even though we weren’t hitting balls, the coaches kept it fun, and that day really gave me the spirit of the program. Rain or shine, I’ve loved it ever since.”From Practice and Course classes to Ace and Junior Council, Alonso has grown tremendously throughout his time in our programs and that growth comes down to individual moments that have made an impact and set him on a journey of self-discovery.
“One of my favorite experiences was helping to plan and run the FTSV Family Fest as part of the Junior Council… It really helped me realize how much of an impact I could have, and it is something that I’ll never forget.” After positive experiences like these, it’s easy to see why a participant would want to give back. Alonso is now a dedicated volunteer who spends much of his Saturday afternoons helping out at our registration and check-in booth at Rancho del Pueblo. Alonso goes above and beyond, always proactive and attentive to the needs of our participants, families, and coaches. When asked why he started volunteering, Alonso said, “I wanted to help give others the same great experience I’ve had, and I was inspired by my coaches and fellow ACE participants who were already volunteering. Being a volunteer has really helped me apply the FTSV curriculum’s lessons… and see the real effects they can have.”
Alonso Jose is a perfect example of how our programs can help kids build positive identity.
He’s now a leader in many of the classes he takes, helping other participants navigate their journey through First Tee, by simply being a friendly and helpful face to everyone he comes across. That identity has spilled over to other areas of Alonso’s life as well – his parents have even noticed his greater sense of responsibility in the classroom and more confidence in the way he carries himself. “First Tee has helped me become both stronger as a student and more confident… to be myself in new environments and interact with new people. These skills have already helped me in scholarship interviews and will continue to be essential as I continue my education in college.”
Positive identity is crucial to youth development, and part of that confidence is having a sense of belonging within your community. That process takes time, and over the years coaches, program staff, and FTSV leaders alike have seen Alonso’s confidence grow. “One of the blessings of working with youth is walking alongside them and watching them grow.” said George Maxe, FTSV President & CEO. “I’ve had the good fortune of also working alongside Alonso as we set-up and then operate our check-in area for Saturday classes at Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course. It’s been wonderful to watch him learn the many steps to our set-up, follow them with efficiency and a positive attitude, and go above and beyond with helpfulness. All of this appears to have helped him grown in confidence. Go Alonso!”
When asked to offer advice to any participants considering volunteering with FTSV, he said, “Really put yourself out there and connect with your coaches and fellow participants. I know it can feel intimidating at first. I was nervous too when starting, but everyone is there to learn, grow, and have fun together.”
“Thank you also for the kind words about Alonso!” exclaimed Elizabeth Jose (Alonso’s Mother). “He is really loving his morning volunteering, and we have seen a new sense of responsibility and self-confidence spilling over into his school experience and even the way he carries himself! We are so thankful to the First Tee program and the whole administrative team!”
If your child is interested in golf or looking for a new extracurricular activity where they can learn, grow, and become part of something bigger than themself, consider enrolling them in FTSV programming. There are tons of opportunities for important early development for younger students, and equally as many for leadership and growth for middle and high schoolers. Visit our YOUTH PROGRAMS page for more information.
(US AM TOUR 50/50 Raffle Benefits FTSV – Published 9/10/25) We’re incredibly grateful that the US AM TOUR and Tournament Director, Dan Cacho has, once again, conducted a 50/50 Raffle at each of their Northern California 2024-2025 tournaments raising $7,500 for FTSV. These funds will enable us to provide financial aid to low-income kids to have access to our youth development program. Our goal is to develop life-long golfers of all levels while teaching life skills.
Andrea Brenholz, FTSV Board Member and former US AM TOUR player said, “As both a former US AM TOUR player and a First Tee – Silicon Valley Board Director, I’m truly thankful for this generous gift. Your support strengthens our ability to positively impact young lives through the game of golf.”
What we like most about the US AM TOUR is that there is a flight for everyone. This encourages golfers of all levels to become part of a golf community that is steeped in passion for the game of golf while providing access to top golf courses.
Dan Cacho, the U.S. Am Tour’s Western Regional Director said, “That’s the ultimate mission for the tour is to try to give golfers a platform to improve their games and test themselves on the tournament level.”
The US AM TOUR is the largest and most trusted amateur golf tour in the country. There are six flights for each tournament, and each also has a respective senior flight, meaning there are 12 different winners at the 700 events across the United States. Members are eligible to play anywhere they wish, they do not have to play solely on their designated home tour. During the year there are 30 tournaments that are labeled as majors, which are 36-hole events. Points and performance rankings are accrued for each local tour and the top players in each division will qualify for the national championship, which this year is September 8-17 at Innisbrook Resort, home pf the PGA Tour’s Valspar Championship.
(PCA FTSV Training – Published 9/9/25) On September 6th, First Tee — Silicon Valley hosted two coach trainings led by Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) trainer, Peter Wood. This was the 3rd time that our two organizations came together to deliver a coach training. The first instance occurred in 2020 and was the pilot training/collaboration that led to a national partnership between First Tee and PCA.
PCA’s content, training, and resources are now shared nationwide, throughout First Tee ‘s network. Both First Tee – Silicon Valley and PCA share common coach philosophies centered around process-focused coaching, participant empowerment, and a positive and supportive team culture. The topic this time around was how to support positive athlete behavior through responsive coaching.
Successful coaching requires a balance between having high expectations for behavior and providing high support. When challenges present themselves in class it is imperative that a coach have empathy and understanding of where their athletes are coming from, while also having a clear behavioral prevention plan. Coaches should work WITH their athletes instead of being punitive, neglectful, or permissive when faced with behavioral challenges. To this point, we are grateful that PCA shared their resources and worked with our coaching team on behavioral prevention and intervention techniques. Additionally, they provided strategies for coaches to identify participant stressors and practice self-regulation. A great coach is a prepared coach who takes the time to understand their student. We are grateful PCA helped prepare our 19 paid instructors and over 50 returning volunteer coaches this past Saturday.
What PCA is saying about FTSV
Working with PCA has been a shining example of teamwork. “Chris and I work quite seamlessly together in putting together curriculum for FTSV coaches’ training,” says Senior PCA Trainer, Peter Wood. “That is a testament to the common visions and values that both PCA and FTSV share in our respective work. Much of that shared vision and set of values manifest itself in our focus on helping young kids develop into great older kids, and adults. We care a lot about the kids acquiring a good set of technical skills to be able to enjoy and play golf, but way more important than that is to help kids absorb invaluable life lessons in their athletic pursuit. This is the charge of youth serving organizations coaches around the country, and it’s a very cool thing when two large national organizations like PCA and First Tee join forces to try to make this all happen- a worthy pursuit if there ever was one.”
(Rancho Reunion Scramble Tournament – Published 9/9/25) On Saturday, August 23rd, the energy was high, the swings were smooth at Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course for our Rancho Reunion Scramble! This special tournament brought together our amazing FTSV participants and alumni for a day of fun, friendly competition and community connection.
A huge THANK YOU to all our alumni who joined us and truly exemplified the values of our First Tee life lessons. Your presence, and leadership lit up the course and gave our participants a firsthand look at the lasting impact of our program.
Our tournament played out across holes 3 through 7, and what a close competition it was!
Rancho Reunion Scramble Tournament Results
After an exciting round, there was a clear first place team that shot 25. However, two teams tied with a score of 28,forcing ascorecard playoff. The two teams tied for second were Team Thai (Alum), and Team Calvin (Alum). We turned to the hardest handicap hole to break the tie, and from there we crowned our winners!
1st Place – Josh (Alum), Aria, Cora, and Ashton with a score of 25
2nd Place – Calvin (Alum), Ayodeji, Nathaniel, and Mluleki with a score of 28
Long Drive – Aria – 130-yard drive!
Closest-to-the-Pin – Christine–14 feet from the pin!
Once again, thank you to all the participants, families, and alumniwho made this event so special. Your support and enthusiasm continue to drive the First Tee mission forward, and events like the Rancho Reunion remind us just how powerful our community truly is.
We can’t wait to see you at the next one! Also, thank you to Pizza Presidente for discounting the pizza for the event!
(FTSV Girls Golf Summer Play Day – Published 9/9/25) The FTSV Girls Golf Summer Play Day was filled with fun, teamwork, and water balloons on the green! Twenty (20) FTSV girls kicked off the morning with some essential range practice, where everyone had the chance to sharpen their skills and meet & greet with their coaches and our two FTSV Alumni before diving into the day’s activities. To lighten things up and set a positive tone, we engaged in some fun icebreakers, helping everyone get comfortable and excited for the day ahead.
Our first highlight was capturing a fantastic group picture to remember this special day. With energy all around, the girls were then divided into four groups and set off to tackle the uniquely themed golf holes.
Each hole on the 4-hole loop presented a summer-themed challenge. Hole one featured SpongeBob’s neighborhood where the participants had to navigate their ball through each house while avoiding obstacles. Another hole was creatively designed with water balloons as our golfers were tasked to pop them with chip shots! The goal was to make each hole engaging and different, ensuring that the day was full of surprises, twists, and turns.
After making their way through all four holes, the girls returned to the patio area to socialize, eat pizza, and receive a sportsmanship prize.
Congratulations to Sofia for being so inclusive, engaging, and positive throughout the event. She was awarded with a gift certificate to Los Lagos Golf Course.
Overall, FTSV Girls Golf Summer Play Day was a tremendous success.
Katelyn, an Alum and Coach, shared her thoughts on the event. “As a Coach, it was great seeing so many smiles out on the golf course. I wish I attended Girls Golf when I was younger. The activities were super engaging, which kept the energy high despite the heat.”
Thank you to our FTSV team of Coaches – Gracie, Tiffany, Maya, Khaton, Dahlia, Alonzo, Natalie and Brooklyn! Without them, we would not have been able to make this Girls Golf event so memorable!
Special thanks to Ysabelle (Coach), Rachana (Alumni), Katelyn (Alumni), and Annie (Ace participant) for being amazing role models for our girls!
Our next Girls Golf will be November 15, 2025. For information about these tournaments and more, visit Our Opportunities page or contact Manny Gallardo – [email protected].
(First Tee Leadership Summit – In partnership with PGA Tour Superstore – Published 9/8/25) This past August, FTSV participants Joshua Joo and Vikrant Bhende attended the First Tee Leadership Summit in partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore, held in Emigrant, Montana. First Tee golfers from chapters across the country were selected to attend this unique and rewarding event. Participants engaged in team building activities and challenged themselves by exploring positive risk taking. Over the course of the week, these participants were encouraged to step out of their comfort zone, learn about themselves and what it takes to be an effective leader, all while creating long lasting relationships and memories.
Both Joshua and Vikrant had a wonderful time. Throughout each week, both participants took part in outdoor group activities such as a ropes course, horseback riding, white-water rafting, and, of course, playing golf. In the classroom, participants were guided through different self-reflective activities and heard from several inspirational speakers. Both Joshua and Vikrant felt that they grew as people while there.
From the great food, the beautiful views and the thought-provoking speakers, Vikrant had a memorable and impactful time.
For him, hearing the unique perspectives and personal stories from the speakers was the best part. “The stories I heard from the chaperones and speakers were very surprising and interesting, mostly deep stories about their personal development. We spent a lot of time learning from the experiences of other people and how those experiences shape one’s leadership. It was really eye-opening”
“Going forward, I feel like I have a new perspective on being a leader. My leadership style currently is more about telling, but I can see it changing. I learned all about different ways to lead, including by example and from behind, among others.” Vikrant left Montana feeling more confident in his abilities to support a team and will bring that perspective back home to FTSV.
For Joshua, experiencing team dynamics was the most impactful aspect of the week.
He took part in activities that tested his capacity for teamwork. “The most impactful events were the team-based challenges and the speeches. The tent pole challenge was an opportunity for me to grow as a leader…and taught us to trust ourselves and work as one. An effective leader should allow the team to bond closely and move them as a group with one plan.”
“I enjoyed building strong relationships with other students from around the nation. Coming from a place where competition for academics is very fierce, I have struggled with forming close bonds with others. For me, being honest and open with peers was a challenge. However, the Summit redefined what it meant to me to be a friend or mentor to others. I discovered that even if you are not blood related, you could still be family with another individual. This event provided me with an opportunity to meet people in an open-minded and vulnerable state, where we could discuss our inner thoughts without judgment. Additionally, everyone at the event was extremely encouraging and respectful, which made it easier to form closer bonds with people.”
Both FTSV participant’s had experiences that will stick with them for years, and have returned home with new perspectives, ideas, and attitudes. Thank you to the PGA TOUR Superstore and First Tee HQ for putting on this event! There are many National Opportunities each year with some coming up soon. If you’d like to be considered to apply, please reach out directly to Coach Phoenix ([email protected]).
(FTSV – Teens & Alumni Tournament – Published 8/28/25) On Saturday, August 23rd, FTSV hosted our quarterly off-season tournaments at Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course. Three different events were held that day for kids and teens of different ages and skill levels – (1) Girls Golf, (2) Kids & Alumni, and (3) Teens & Alumni.
FTSV – Teens & Alumni Tournament
The Teens & Alumni Tournament capped off the afternoon with 25 players teamed up with 7 FTSV Alumni for a fun scramble format. Each group of 3 participants was joined by 1 alum to lead their team and provide an example of what success looks like for life after FTSV junior golf.
Some of our Alumni are current coaches and volunteers, some are college golfers, and some are professionals, but all of them are successful individuals who carry the life skills and core values they learned from FTSV through their daily lives. It was great to see them all reminisce about their experiences in FTSV and catch up after years apart.
These tournaments are a great way for participants to put our life skill curriculum into practice. Golf tournaments are a unique setting for practicing life skills. The pressure of having just one chance to hit your shot, while your team is depending on you, and as you’re competing against others – all of it adds up to an environment where sportsmanship, integrity, and perseverance are crucial to success.
After the round, Alumni, participants, and their families all enjoyed a pizza lunch and awards ceremony. Shoutout to Pizza Presidente for lunch!
All of our participants should be proud of their performance. And a huge THANK YOU to our Alumni who showed their commitment to our organization by taking the time to play.
FTSV – Teens & Alumni Tournament Results
Closest-to-the-Pin (11-13 year old) – Chloe Hong, 19’11”
Closest-to-the-Pin (14-17 year old) – Nico Hernadez-Lopez, 12’8”
Longest Drive (11-13 year old) – Victor Kotlyar
Longest Drive (14-17 year old) – Leo Villegas-Luiz
3rd Place – Joshua Jang (Alum), Leo Villegas, Shreyash Avasarala, Adhya Malhotra
2nd Place – Calvin Kong (Alum), Erik Chavez, Chloe Hong, Amanda Chen
1st Place – Joey Jang (Almost Alum!), Bryanna Perez, Benjamin Hughes, Victor Kotlyar
