(New Ambassador – Meet Jason Luehrs Published 05/12/2026) First Tee – Silicon Valley is excited to welcome our newest Board Ambassador – Jason Luehrs. We asked Jason a few questions to get to know him.
Can you give us a brief background about your personal and professional life?
“I have spent most of my life in various regions of the Bay Area, having grown up in the East Bay, moving to the South Bay after going to Fresno for college, where I first picked up a club and started my golfing journey. With a business degree in hand, I have had the good fortune of working with a lot of good people over the years helping to build and grow a number of private companies, and have been able to continue my career as a consultant doing similar work. I enjoy being active and in addition to golfing, I regularly play soccer, go hiking, and try to keep up with my young son and dog.”
Why FTSV?
“As I evaluated where I wanted to invest my time and energy for new endeavors, I wanted golf to be a part of it. As I learned about FTSV and how the organization approaches teaching life skills and golf skills, it aligned with many of my views about the game of golf and its intertwining lessons of both personal and professional life. I also really enjoy the community aspect that FTSV embodies and the involvement opportunities it provides.”
What are you looking forward to as an Ambassador?
“I am really looking forward to having an impact on so many young lives. Being an ambassador will allow me to share some of my stories and lessons I have learned along the way, while also giving me an opportunity to share more about FTSV with my network all through my passion of golf.”
All board members, staff, coaches and instructors see themselves as Mentors. Do you have any memorable mentors?
“As I have progressed through various endeavors in my life, I have consistently had someone that I could seek out for guidance and to act as a sounding board, but early in my professional career I was fortunate to find a mentor that I have trusted for many years. The mentorship has grown and evolved into a friendship that I truly value, but I still find myself seeking them out for that same guidance and sounding board that was the root of the relationship.”
Volunteer your time and talent as a board member, like Jason Luehrs.
Coaching, Cultivating Donors, Event or Campaign Fundraising, Representing FTSV at outside events or working on special projects with the CEO. Get Started – Join Us!
(New Ambassador – Meet Matt Cunningham Published 05/07/26) First Tee – Silicon Valley is excited to welcome our newest Board Ambassador – Matt Cunningham. We asked Matt a few questions to get to know him.
Can you give us a brief background about your personal and professional life?
“I was born and raised in Northern Ireland – 20 minutes from where Rory McIlroy grew up – before moving to the US to play college soccer and pursue a degree in Marketing. After graduating from Menlo College, I began a career in marketing and spent the first few years working within different sports organizations, as well as supporting a couple of local non-profits as a marketing/social media contractor. These days, I work full-time in a cybersecurity startup but continue to support those non-profits as a marketing contractor on the side.”
“Outside of work, I have a wife and a Samoyed puppy who is about to turn one. When I am not spending time with them on the weekends, there is only one other place to find me – the golf course!”
Why FTSV?
“I attended last year’s Open as a guest in a donor’s foursome, and having already had a baseline awareness of FTSV, I knew I need to get involved in some way after seeing first-hand the impact FTSV has on the local youth. Playing golf as a youth myself taught me more than simply how to hit a ball – it taught me discipline, patience, perseverance, and taking calculated risk, traits that have all served me very well since moving to the US. I feel personally aligned with FTSV’s mission because I believe the personal development aspect of golf is often overlooked, let alone prioritized in youth participation. Pairing this with the emphasize on providing access to the game for those who might not otherwise be capable of doing so, it feels like a perfect match.”
What are you looking forward to as an Ambassador?
“I’m excited to support the organization in any way I can and to meet the other board members to collaborate on bringing more awareness to the team’s mission. I’m looking forward to becoming a resource for the team, hopefully for many years to come, and can’t wait to get started.”
All board members, staff, coaches and instructors see themselves as Mentors. Do you have any memorable mentors?
“If I could pinpoint one person to being the biggest mentor in my life, it would be my oldest brother, Stephen. He paved the way for moving to the US when he voyaged across the Pacific seven years prior to me, and has been my guide in navigating life ever since. Outside of him, I have a lot of thanks to give to several sports coaches throughout my youth and college years, who all help shape me into the man I’ve become today in one way or another – which is another reason why I feel so strongly aligned with FTSV’s mission.”
Volunteer your time and talent as a board member, like Matt Cunningham.
Coaching, Cultivating Donors, Event or Campaign Fundraising, Representing FTSV at outside events or working on special projects with the CEO. Get Started – Join Us!
(New Ambassador – Meet Bau-Lin Yueh Published 4/29/2026) First Tee – Silicon Valley is excited to welcome our newest Board Ambassador – Bau-Lin Yueh. We asked Bau-Lin a few questions to get to know him.
How would you describe your career?
“I’ve been in the financial services industry for over 20 years, with deep roots in mortgage banking. Transitioning into holistic financial services, I now focus on helping individuals and families with retirement planning, estate planning, and wealth accumulation. My specialty lies in creating tax-free distribution strategies to ensure long-term financial security. One example of this is leveraging our Hybrid Long-term Care to protect your assets and generate tax-free income.”
“Beyond my professional work,” Bau-Lin continued, “I am deeply committed to community service and education, particularly in supporting youth development. My goal is to leverage my professional background and personal passions to make a meaningful impact on the organizations I serve.”
Why FTSV?
“What truly drew me to First Tee – Silicon Valley is the organization’s unique approach to character development through the game of golf. I have always believed that the values learned on the course like integrity, perseverance, responsibility and respect are essential life skills for young people. My experience volunteering in an after-school math programs like Singapore Math solidified my desire to support educational and developmental initiatives for youth. FTSV provides the perfect intersection of my interest in the game and my commitment to helping the next generation build a strong foundation for their future.”
As an FTSV Board Ambassador, what are your goals?
“As a new Ambassador, I am most looking forward to engaging with the community and helping to expand the reach of FTSV’s mission. I am excited to participate in events like the upcoming OPEN and to assist with welcoming golfers and registration. Being part of the OPEN allows me to contribute to the organization’s goals and secure the resources needed to sustain these vital programs. I also look forward to collaborating with the Board of Directors and other Ambassadors to share our collective passion for youth development.”
“Yes, I have been fortunate enough to have mentors throughout my life and professional career who have guided me. Their influence taught me that success isn’t just about individual effort, but about the guidance and wisdom shared by those who came before us. This firsthand knowledge of the profound impact a dedicated mentor can have on personal and professional growth is exactly why I am so eager to support the character-building work that happens at First Tee.”
Volunteer your time and talent as a board member, like Bau-Lin Yueh.
Coaching, Cultivating Donors, Event or Campaign Fundraising, Representing FTSV at outside events or working on special projects with the CEO. Get Started – Join Us!
(Mentor Spotlight: Meet Coach Blake Published 4/2/2026) First Tee – Silicon Valley is excited to welcome Coach Blake to our team as our newest Program Coordinator. Blake will be coaching at Baylands Golf Links during the week and at Rancho del Pueblo on Saturdays.
Blake graduated from San Jose State University with a BA in Public Relations. He has extensive leadership experience in people management and customer service across different industries and is a certified NRPGI Golf Instructor. “I wanted to work for an organization that makes a difference to the younger generation,” says Blake. “I see FTSV as an opportunity to be a positive role model and mentor. Helping kids build confidence and discover their potential is something I find rewarding every day.”
Blake grew up in junior golf programs and played competitive high school golf. As a result, he believes in the importance of programs like FTSV. Since he began working with us in March, he has fully embraced our commitment to life skills and has demonstrated strong leadership skills for our participants and other coaches.
“Coaching with FTSV has given me a new purpose for being a role model to the kids outside of just the game of golf,” says Blake. “I am finding ways to use the life skills in my life everyday as well. It goes to show you ways of living by the motto of ‘practicing what you preach.’”
When asked what FTSV means to him, Blake said, “FTSV means acceptance of who you are as an individual and being in a family-oriented environment. Everyone is welcomed with open arms and no judgment.”
Other than sports, Blake enjoys music, attending live events, and collecting shoes.
Welcome Blake! We are excited to have you on our team!
If you are interested in becoming more involved with FTSV, please visit our website.
( NEW Staff Spotlight: Beth Williams Published 3/05/26) First Tee – Silicon Valley is excited to welcome Beth Williams to our team as our new Development Director. Beth will be planning, organizing, and directing all of FTSV’s fundraising efforts and working closely with FTSV’s Board of Directors, President & CEO, and Marketing Coordinator.
“We are thrilled to now have Beth as part of our core staff,” said George Maxe, FTSV President & CEO. “She brings over 25 years of development experience to build upon the many successes of Judy Deaton in her eight years in the role. (We wish Judy well in her retirement.) Beth is a great fit for our team and our mission to develop youth through the golf.”
Throughout her career, Beth has led comprehensive development programs that include major gifts, annual giving, special events, corporate and foundation partnerships, and long-term relationship building. She brings a donor-centered approach to fundraising, with particular strength in cultivating and stewarding major gifts. Beth enjoys working closely with leadership and board members to identify opportunities, strengthen donor engagement, and align fundraising efforts with organizational goals.
“I am drawn to First Tee’s emphasis on character development, self-confidence, and resilience and look forward to the opportunity to partner with George and the Board of Directors to plan, organize, and direct a development program that supports both current operations and future growth,” said Beth. “I believe my experience, and passion for youth development will allow me to make a meaningful contribution to First Tee — Silicon Valley.”
(Mentor Spotlight: Thank You Judy Deaton Published 01/15/2026) First Tee – Silicon Valley (FTSV) has positively impacted over 100,000 kids and teens throughout our 25-year history. That success is largely built on the passion, hard work, and commitment of our hundreds of mentors and staff. For this month’s Mentor Spotlight, we feature and thank Judy Deaton for her 8 impactful and influential years of FTSV leadership.
Judy Deaton came to First Tee – Silicon Valley in 2017 from the ever-fluctuating radio advertising world and became FTSV’s Development Director. At the time, FTSV needed to secure and sustain significantly more funding to support the high demand for our programs. Simply, we needed more money to help more kids and teens. Judy dove right in and fully owned FTSV’s fundraising efforts in partnership with our Board of Directors and Ambassadors. Her leadership and hard work helped FTSV grow to a whole new level financially. As a result, FTSV now serves thousands more participants.
Judy is retiring at the end of the month but will continue to be a mentor to FTSV Youth as an instructor at Rancho del Pueblo in San Jose and at Gavilan Golf Course in Gilroy. She also plans to continue advocating for FTSV as a Board Ambassador by being the main point person for the Caddy Club Majors in the Springand FTSV partnership with the KRTY Writer’s Cup Tournament in the Fall.
What we’re saying about Judy?
“I cannot emphasize enough how important Judy has been to FTSV and our staff these eight years. As Development Director, she built a successful development infrastructure that has enable us to grow our revenues significantly. As a member of FTSV’s management team along with me and Chris, our Program Director, she was a valued thought partner and grounding force with our entire staff. Personally, she tirelessly advocated for our kids and teens, supported our character-building mission, and drove many of our key business processes to success. We are grateful to Judy for her many contributions to FTSV!” – George Maxe, President & CEO, FTSV
“Judy’s passion towards helping others is contagious and we are better at our jobs because of her. I respect her dedication to going above and beyond and her ability to rally teams around challenging initiatives. She is professional, motivating, and caring, all qualities that have made her successful as a Development Director and as a coach. I’m so glad she has been on our team and I’m looking forward to her continuing to coach and lead our youth.” – Chris Moreno-Hunt, FTSV Program Director
“I thank Judy for her dedication, heart and professionalism she’s poured into First Tee – Silicon Valley. Her leadership in development has strengthened our organization and opened doors for countless young people. Judy’s impact will be felt for years to come, and we are truly grateful for all she has built. I wish her joy, health and fulfillment in her retirement.” – Victor M. Arrañaga, Jr., Board Chair, FTSV
“I’ve walked alongside Judy through different chapters of my professional life—from our time in radio advertising to her role as a mentor, coach, and development director at First Tee – Silicon Valley. Her passion, empathy, and ability to truly listen make her an extraordinary leader. Judy has a way of seeing people, encouraging them, and helping them believe in their own potential. She is directly responsible for helping shape my career, and I’m proud to call her a mentor I never anticipated finding later in life. I’m thankful that she will continue her work at FTSV, guiding and mentoring kids with the same generosity and heart she has always shown me.” – Nicole Woodson, FTSV Marketing
Thank you, Judy, for your many years of mentoring, advocating and hard work!
If you are interested in joining our coaching staff, working as a mentor and making a difference in your community like Judy has, please visit our VOLUNTEER PAGE to learn more. No golf experience necessary. Everyone has life experience! Hope to see you out on the course.
(Avi Desai – Alumni Spotlight & AWS re:Invent Conference Recap Published 12/19/25) Throughout 2025, and into the new year, First Tee HQ is helping chapters across the country lead an initiative to get Alumni more involved in what’s happening at the local and national level. Through meetups, advisory positions, and conferences and networking events, First Tee Alumni have more opportunities than ever to stay involved with First Tee.
Avi Desai, First Tee – Silicon Valley Alum, was recently selected to attend the AWS re:Invent conference, an industry-leading cloud computing and AI professional development and networking event, which took place in Las Vegas earlier this month. This amazing opportunity is part of an ongoing partnership between Amazon Web Services (AWS) and First Tee, and we’re so proud that Avi could represent FTSV as one of eighteen First Tee national alumni in attendance.
Avi started his FTSV journey in elementary school with his sister, Sapna. “[We] had never played golf before, and our dad took us to Rancho for the first time around 6th grade. We saw a bunch of kids in a golf class and learned about FTSV. We signed up for class the next season.” They were immediately hooked, citing their enjoyment learning the game and the life skills that accompanied it, along with the many amazing peers and mentors they met along the way. Avi particularly remembered Coach John Jasso, an integral part of FTSV’s early years, then known as the Eagles at Rancho, and later as First Tee – San Jose. “Coach Jasso was an amazing mentor to us – he was so easy going and knew exactly what to say to keep you motivated on your golf journey. He gave us so much guidance and he really shaped us.”
After graduating and leaving the FTSV program, Avi attended Oregon State, earning his B.S. in Computer Science, in 2023 and is now pursuing his Masters in AI Engineering at UT Austin. His goal is to combine his passion for helping others with the near-limitless potential of STEM and AI to help create innovative solutions to everyday problems.
Avi’s introduction to STEM, an integral part of much of the industry and culture around Silicon Valley, started at a young age. Both his parents were engineers, but Avi soon realized that not all kids had access to the information and technology that he and his sister did. Avi reflected…
“…where we grew up, in a different school district only a half mile away, kids maybe only had 2 computers at their library, didn’t have a computer at home, didn’t have access to things that were so important to the dominant industry here. My sister and I decided we wanted to help change that, so we set out to create STEM learning opportunities for kids at local libraries.”
Avi and Sapna founded their own non-profit, SV Kids, and over the next couple of years began hosting their own STEM classes for underserved youth at libraries around Silicon Valley.
So, Avi was a perfect fit to be selected to attend the AWS re:Invent conference.
“It was so exciting and rewarding to be selected,” said Avi. “We played some golf, networked, and met First Tee Alums from across the country. It was great to hear everyone’s story and see how their First Tee experience has shaped them… There were seminars about different topics, and I spoke to so many bright individuals from different backgrounds, from high-tech to government…. It was awesome to hear the challenges and concerns that other industry leaders have about AI.”
After returning from AWS re:Invent, Avi joined current Ace participants and other FTSV alumni at PGA TOUR Superstore in Cupertino on Friday, December 12th for a special, local event. READ THE FULL RECAP STORY
“FTSV is so proud of Avi for representing us at this national First Tee Alumni event! I cannot think of a better FTSV Ambassador and Alum for AWS re:Invent.” said George Maxe, FTSV President & CEO, who has know Avi since he first started as a participant. When asked why he’s staying involved in FTSV as an alunni, Avi said, “I definitely want to give back. When I was a participant, hearing from leaders in different industries and how they apply life skills in their careers… inspired me and I want to be a mentor to kids now and further into my career.”
Keep it up Avi! We’re excited to see you continue your career in AI and hope you stay involved in FTSV for years to come. If you’re an alum and want to get re-involved in First Tee events and opportunities, click here.
(Mentor Spotlight: Meet Coach Sean Published 12/5/25) First Tee – Silicon Valley is excited to welcome Coach Sean to our team as our newest Program Coordinator. Sean will be coaching at Baylands Golf Links during the week and at Rancho del Pueblo on Saturdays.
Sean graduated from California State University of Fresno where he majored in Communication and played on the football team. When he graduated, he became an NCAA Football Recruiting Lead and Weight Strength Coach, where he led fitness and weight training for over 150 athletes and where his joy for coaching developed. “I enjoy coaching because it allows me to see others succeed, foster deep connections, and help others grow and unlock their potential.”
He applied the same coaching principles in his other roles as a Senior Recruiter and a Project Manager. His love for golf came ten years after his football career ended, and he pursued this love by becoming a Callaway Custom Fitter for Callaway Golf.
Now he is excited to be part of “a unique opportunity to learn from participants, gain new perspectives on the human experience, and make a profound difference in people’s lives. This is a mission-driven career that offers the satisfaction of helping others and gaining new skills in the process.” Sean believes the most valuable lesson he can teach kids & teens in the program is “to love and respect yourself. Life is not coming at you; it comes from you.”
Other than sports, Sean spends his free time fishing, painting, listening to music and enjoying an outdoor lifestyle.
If you are interested in becoming more involved with FTSV, please visit our website.
(FTSV Board & Coach Spotlight: Ron Hallagan – Published 10/27/25) First Tee – Silicon Valley (FTSV) owes so much of our success to our many wonderful Board Directors, Ambassadors, and Coaches who are the backbone of our youth golf programs. This month’s Spotlight highlights one of our standout Board Ambassadors and Coaches, Ron Hallagan. Over the last 15 years, Ron has given his time, talent and treasure for FTSV – all in the spirit of joy and gratitude.
When asked why he has been so committed to helping FTSV Ron said,
What I am grateful for are people like Victor, George, Judy, Chris and Manny and so many more. Their commitment and loyalty to First Tee has inspired me to want to do more. My relationship with First Tee has been such a Blessing!”
Ron is truly an amazing hands-on volunteer that we wish we could clone.
During Ron’s volunteer service he has worn several different hats, many simultaneously – Board Director (2011-2022), Secretary/Officer (2014-2022), Board Ambassador (2023-Current), Coach, Strategic Thought Partner, School Program Advocate, Engaged Annual Fundraiser, Personal Major Donor, and FT Trustee.
Ron has generously given hundreds of hours a year of his time to FTSV, but he has given much more than his time. He has provided FTSV with the same consulting services he provided his clients at EY for 33 years. Ron understands our business on all levels, so he is a tremendous resource, including when we established our new 501(c)3 in 2014.
Ron is definitely on our Go-To Team!
Commitment to Staff – George Maxe, President & CEO
Ron is an “attached processor,” as folks like to say here in Silicon Valley, as a trusted advisor and focused encourager. He has a wealth of management expertise from spending his entire career with EY as a business consultant that he shares in a respectful and professional way. First and foremost, he appreciates the dedication and hard work of staff who ultimately must run our business day in and day out. Ron collaborates with me as CEO providing thoughtful input and helping hands when the job simply needs time and energy to get done – always with healthy boundaries including even when he was one of our long-time Board Officers. At the same time, Ron is a cheerleader for FTSV as a whole as well as for our individual staff. He clearly believes in our cause to mentor youth, build character, instill a sense of service, treat everyone with respect, and lend a helping hand. It’s common to receive a text, call, email or in-person side comment from Ron that is an energizing boost. Ron is one of the most generous and gratitude-filled individuals who I have ever known. His commitment to me and our staff has been priceless.
Commitment to Mission – Victor M. Arrañaga, Jr. – Chairman of Board
During Ron’s tenure as FTSV Executive Board Director and Ambassador, he has continued to embrace the values of First Tee by developing strategic plans, providing personal financial resources, and has increased outreach and support for programs that target marginalized communities. Ron’s engaging personality and work ethic has made a positive impact on program participants, board, staff, and volunteers to raise their game in our chapters efforts to transform lives and giving kids and teens a brighter future.
Commitment to Fundraising – Judy Deaton – Development Director
Ron is a highly engaged Board Member always checking in to ensure that we reach our revenue budget. He develops a personal plan to reach both his goals. Ron puts in the time to send personalized solicitations to connect his network to stories about our participants/chapter and invites his network to attend our events. I have served as the Development Director since September 2017 and Ron has been my strategic partner for our annual development goals and plan no matter his role on the board. Fundraising doesn’t feel like sales to Ron, because he believes in our mission and truly cares about the welfare and sustainability of our chapter. He is a role model for our other board members setting the bar on how they can champion our fundraising efforts.
Commitment to Participants – Chris Moreno Hunt – Program Director
Ron has a passion for youth development and believes in the power of mentoring. He has been an exemplary role model to the students he coaches and to the coaches he works with.
Ron goes above and beyond in his coaching duties. When we coached ALR (Ask-Listen-Respond) he came up with a conversation game for those waiting in line, which incorporated ALR and improved team dynamics. He is a critical thinker who always provides great alternatives to games, and suggestions for how we can better communicate our life skills or incorporate them into the games. He knows how to adapt his coaching to fit the needs of each participant and is eager to learn from his fellow coaches.
Lastly, he coaches with passion and enthusiasm, which rubs off on those around him. I can tell he loves to coach and make connections. Recently, he helped us at a community day where we had over 500 families at our golf course playing games. It can be a hectic experience as many are first time golfers. Ron not only taught the families and kept it safe, but also made sure everyone was included by checking in and having conversations with each family at his station. He is able to connect with everyone, and makes learning fun. We are so lucky to have him as a coach.
His contributions to our classes go beyond coaching. He led the launch of our school program with San Jose Catholic Schools, created a partnership with Cristo Rey High School where students were bused to the golf course for our classes, mentored our teens at our Ace-Career Classes, and funded FT’s Make Your Mark Scholarship Awards. As of today, two of our participants have won the scholarship made available by Ron. Thank you Ron!
(Change the Game for MORE Kids! Meet Li An Panfil – Published 10/23/25) Li An was a standout participant with First Tee – Silicon Valley since 2013. She is now a freshman at UCLA where she is studying healthcare.
In her time with FTSV she participated in every class offered, including our four Ace seminar classes (Career, Education, Give Back, and Golf). Li An also volunteered regularly, giving almost 300 hours as a FTSV volunteer coach in Gilroy. She also coached and organized Girls Golf events and lead several subcommittees in our FTSV Junior Council. Throughout Li An’s many FTSV engagements, she always went above and beyond and distinguished herself as a respected leader.
Li An’s high character, community contributions, and FTSV engagement helped her selections for the following National Opportunity Achievements:
We Asked Li An about How First Tee – Silicon Valley Impacted Her
“First Tee – Silicon Valley played a big role in developing my perseverance and helped me become a stronger communicator and learn skills that are transferable everywhere in life. It’s a big community feeling, spreading knowledge and helping us to improve and be our best selves.”
Li An applied the life and work skills that she learned and coached in FTSV. As a result, she succeeded academically, built a network of support, lifted others up around her, and achieved scholarships that helped her attend UCLA.
A National Leader with Local Heart.
Among the 140 First Tee chapters nationwide, First Tee – Silicon Valley is at the top or near the top in the following categories:
85% participant diversity
48% participants from low-income households
55% retention rate including a 75% teen retention rate
1:4 mentor-to-kid ratio
These numbers reflect our commitment to making sure every child has access to caring mentors and meaningful opportunities.
Be Part of the Change.
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. Your commitment provides the stability and resources necessary to help thousands of youth grow into resilient, confident, and compassionate leaders.
Help Us Grow Our Impact and the Number of Kids 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)
Make your monthly pledge today—and help us Change the Game for MORE Kids tomorrow.
(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.
(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.
