Just before Thanksgiving, our organization’s original program leader, Coach John Jasso, passed away at the age of 87. He was an iconic figure for many years at Rancho and within our program.
Coach John was there in 2000 when Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course opened and the Eagles at Rancho Junior Golf Program began. He led Eagles for five years until Eagles became The First Tee of San Jose which he then led for the next two years along with Coach Brigid Moreton. TFTSJ hired its first full-time Program Manager, Molly Redfearn (now Springmann), in 2007 to build upon their great work. Coach John continued as a First Tee instructor until 2020.
Ultimately, Coach John served thousands of our kids and the patrons of Rancho for over 20 years as a Lifetime Recognized First Tee Coach and private instructor. During his tenure, he watched Thunderbird Golf Course evolve into Rancho and Eagles grow to first become The First Tee of San Jose and eventually First Tee – Silicon Valley. Our organization has impacted nearly 100,000 kids since 2000.
“Coach John was one of a handful of “founding fathers and mothers” of First Tee – Silicon Valley,” said George Maxe, President & CEO since 2008. “He was instrumental in getting our program started, so Coach John holds a truly special place in our formation and history. His dedication to teaching all kids, but especially Eastside kids, the game of golf and important life skills was exemplary. Coach John joyfully served others fueled by his Christian faith. We will miss him dearly.”
Coach John’s Obituary & Services (LINK)
