FTSV & Acer – Leadership & Golf Clinic @ Stanford

(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.

The morning half of the event was facilitated by Maria Horning, Vice President for Leadership Development at Legatum Foundation. She began by leading a section on the following with the help of group facilitators made up of female executives and leaders, several of which were FTSV coaches!

  • Knowing your strengths
  • Building self-belief (4-step process)
  • Growing through what you love
  • Setting goals (process goals & sphere of control)
  • Developing grit
  • Being kind to yourself along the way
  • Building belonging
  • Contributing positively
  • Making a positive difference

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.

For more information about these opportunities and more, visit Our Opportunities page.

FTSV Benefits from the 5th Annual Fund the Kids Tournament

(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.

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 HoleMen: 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

(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.”

Purchase a copy of Joe’s book online HERE and support First Tee – Silicon Valley. As Joe said, “First Tee is the best kept secret in most communities.  Most people believe that the organization is focused on teaching kids how to play golf.  The reality is that kids will learn the game of golf but through the lens of discipline, etiquette, self-respect and respect for others using golf as the medium.” from his visit Rancho del Pueblo among many others. View Joe’s full blog post or visit his web site www.josephbronson.com 

Participant Spotlight: Alonso Jose

(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.”

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

(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.”


US AM TOUR Norcal

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

(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.”

Click here for more information on joining FTSV as a volunteer coach.

Rancho Reunion Scramble Tournament

(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 – Aria130-yard drive!

Closest-to-the-Pin – Christine 14 feet from the pin!

Once again, thank you to all the participants, families, and alumni who 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!

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FTSV Girls Golf Summer Play Day

(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].

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First Tee Leadership Summit

(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

(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

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ARUSD School Outreach Program Training

(ARUSD School Outreach Program Training – Published 08/21/25) On Friday, August 15th, 2025, FTSV welcomed over 30 after-school program leaders from all 15 schools in the Alum Rock Union School District (ARUSD) to Boys & Girls Club Smythe Clubhouse for a district-wide training event. Trainings such as this help prepare schools to deliver our School Program curriculum at their facilities.

Each year, schools across the region partner with FTSV for the upcoming academic year to deliver a version of our program and curriculum to their students. Many of the participating schools reside in East San Jose. These partnerships are vital to achieving our mission of serving our community, especially those in low-income areas and Title I schools. Our School Partners are equipped with the equipment, curriculum, and training needed to coach our core life and golf skills to their students, using adaptive lesson plans that make golf fun and accessible to kids no matter their age or skill level.

FTSV is proud to share that for the first time, all 15 schools in the Alum Rock Union School District have partnered with us for the upcoming 2025/26 school year!

“We are thrilled that ARUSD is all-in with FTSV’s School Partner program for all 15 of their schools,” said George Maxe, FTSV President & CEO.  “We want to thank Lupe Ruvalcaba, the Coordinator, Expanded Learning at ARUSD and her team, for their collaboration and belief in this partnership. Our team is excited to work together with ARUSD to enrich the lives of all ARUSD students.”

This show of force by ARUSD is a testament to the commitment they have to their students and families. “Our goal will always be to create a safe, supportive space where students can thrive. Working with FTSV allows us to offer our students meaningful experiences that teach life skills through the game of golf, while building confidence and fostering a strong sense of belonging,” said Lupe Ruvalcaba, Coordinator, Expanded Learning at ARUSD. The School Program lessons provide their students with a safe space to learn and grow as people, using the game of golf and all of its teachable moments as the driver of that growth.

Throughout the school year, after-school program leaders from the Boys & Girls Club, Think Together, and YMCA will deliver up to 8 of our lesson plans to ARUSD students, teaching them about core values like Respect, Sportsmanship, Confidence, Integrity, Goal-Setting, and Perseverance, as well as golf skills that will help them develop a proper grip, stance, and swing.

And during their school year, these schools will also have the opportunity to plan a field trip to Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course, where students will be able to try golf using real clubs and balls on the driving range and practice green, with teaching and guidance from FTSV staff and coaches. Given its proximity, Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course is the hub of our programming in the Alum Rock and East San Jose area. We hope the field trips help show these students that this golf course is a great community space for them and their families to hang out and enjoy the game together.

Our School Partner program is vital to our success as an organization, so thank you to ARUSD and all the program leaders who attended our training at Boys & Girls Club Smythe. We’re excited for another great school year and we can’t wait to see you and your students at the golf course!

If you are interested in starting a School Program in your school, please click here and email [email protected]

FTSV 25th Anniversary OPEN HOUSE

(FTSV 25th 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.

“The support and joy extended by so many individuals at FTSV’s 25th 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.