Category: Character Education

How golf prepares kids to overcome challenges 

Every golf parent has watched it happen. Your child lines up a putt, swings with confidence and misses. Maybe their shoulders drop. Maybe there’s a frustrated sigh. And in that moment, you might wonder: Is this good for them? 

At First Tee, we’d say yes. 

Golf is one of the few sports that puts a young person face-to-face with failure on almost every hole, and that’s exactly what makes it such a powerful teacher. When kids learn to navigate a missed shot, a bad round or a score that didn’t reflect their effort, they’re building something far more important than their game. They’re building resilience. 

The scorecard doesn’t lie, and golf’s honesty can be uncomfortable at first. But over time, it teaches kids to take ownership of their performance — a life skill that carries far beyond the course. 

At First Tee, our coaches create a safe space where that accountability feels empowering, not defeating. Young people learn that a bad shot isn’t a reflection of who they are. It’s information. It’s an opportunity to adjust, refocus and try again. 

What bouncing back looks like 

Resilience isn’t about pretending failure doesn’t hurt. It’s about developing the tools to move through it. At First Tee, we view failure as a “First Attempt In Learning,” recognizing there’s always a lesson to be gleaned when things don’t go right. 

In First Tee’s curriculum, participants work on skills like emotional regulation, positive self-talk and setting goals, which all come naturally on the course. When a young person learns to take a breath after a bad hole and approach the next tee box with a fresh mindset, they’re practicing exactly the kind of response that will serve them in a tough exam, a difficult friendship or a challenging moment at work someday. 

That kind of reflection doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because coaches are asking the right questions, creating space for young people to process their experiences and grow from them. 

“We’ve watched Blayze transition from reacting to challenges to strategically managing them,” said Landon and Holly Chapman, parents of First Tee – Indiana participant, Blayze Chapman. “By applying the STAR (Stop, Think, Anticipate, Respond) model, he’s replaced frustration with perseverance and judgment. Whether he’s navigating a double-bogey or a heavy academic week, he no longer lets a single moment define his day. He’s learned to ‘reset’ with a level of composure that most adults struggle to maintain, proving that his character is anchored in something much deeper than a scorecard.” 

The role parents play in the process 

Here’s something we hear from families all the time: The lessons don’t stay on the course. While First Tee programming is typically delivered in golf settings, the goal is for parents to see their children handling frustration differently at home, in school and in other activities Our aim is for participants to grow in patience and become more articulate about their feelings. 

Of course, parents play a big role in that. When your child comes home after a tough round, how you respond matters. Instead of jumping to fix the problem or minimize their frustration, try asking open-ended questions: What was the hardest part today? What would you do differently next time? What’s one thing you’re proud of, even if the score wasn’t what you hoped? 

These conversations reinforce what your child is learning at First Tee and help them internalize the idea that struggle is a normal, even necessary, part of growth. 

“Golf has given Blayze a quiet, internal confidence rooted in responsibility and integrity,” said the Chapmans. “Through First Tee, he’s developed the social dexterity to engage with mentors and the self-assurance to lead his peers.” 

To support First Tee and its efforts to teach life skills and values through golf, consider becoming a Donor Ambassador today! 

Izzy Kornmeyer shares the transformative power of golf 

Izzy Kornmeyer didn’t know how to hold a golf club when she started at First Tee – Indiana in 8th grade. Now, as a high school senior and varsity golfer, she can’t stop thinking about the game that has completely changed her life. 

“Golf has changed me for the better, and I am forever grateful for it,” she said. 

Izzy’s golf journey started with Sunday mornings watching her dad and grandpa head out to play. When she decided to try high school golf, her mom signed her up for First Tee, hoping the program would give her daughter the foundation she needed. 

That first tournament was humbling. After top-slicing her opening drive, Izzy shot 110. But instead of giving up, she leaned into the challenge. Several summer tournaments and countless practice sessions later, she returned to that same course and shot 83, proving what dedication and perseverance could accomplish. 

Now Izzy is preparing to play collegiate golf at St. Thomas University in Miami, where she’ll be a first-generation college student. 

Finding her voice 

The transformation wasn’t just about golf scores. Izzy arrived at First Tee as a quiet, uncertain beginner who felt out of her element. Over four years, she evolved into a confident mentor and leader who now helps launch new First Tee – Indiana initiatives through the Leaders In Training Program. 

Her leadership extends far beyond the golf course. Izzy serves on First Tee – Indiana’s Participant Advisory Council and was chosen as a Youth Deacon at Second Presbyterian Church.  

Izzy’s approach to leadership is guided by her faith and the values she’s developed through First Tee. She lives by Matthew 20:26: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” 

“I now understand that true leadership isn’t about being in control,” Izzy said. “It’s about being present, expressing kindness and prioritizing other people before yourself.” 

Whether she’s volunteering in the church nursery, creating encouraging TikTok content or being the first to help others at First Tee – Indiana, Izzy leads with kindness and compassion. 

Making an impact 

When she’s not competing, Izzy is often watching professional golf, practicing and or giving back to others. In 2024, she attended the First Tee Innovators Forum in Phoenix. During the event, participants plan service projects they execute in their communities. Izzy ultimately collected 700 full-sized hygiene products and $500 for the Julian Center, Indiana’s largest organization supporting victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and other crises. 

Her journey from a nervous beginner who couldn’t grip a club to a confident leader who helps others find their own path proves what First Tee has always known: With the right support, young people can achieve remarkable growth. 

For Izzy, that growth has been about more than improving her golf game. It’s been about discovering her voice and leading with kindness – one shot, one challenge and one act of service at a time. 

Why ‘one and done’ doesn’t work: the science behind how your child learns life skills

By Kristin Westberg – Senior Director, Training & Evaluation

Think about how your child learned to ride a bike. Did they master it after one explanation? Of course not. They practiced over and over, fell down, tried again and eventually, it clicked.

That’s exactly how First Tee’s life skills work, too.

When your child learns about STAR (Stop, Think, Anticipate, Respond) during their first golf session, they’re just getting introduced to the concept. But they’re also focused on their grip, wondering if they’ll make the putt, and probably thinking about what’s for dinner. That first exposure is just the beginning.

The real learning happens through repetition

The magic happens when your child encounters STAR again and again in different situations. Maybe their coach references it after a bad shot: “Remember STAR? Let’s stop for a second. What happened there?” Now they’re connecting it to a real moment of frustration.

Each time First Tee coaches revisit a life skill, they’re helping your child see patterns and build a framework they can access when emotions run high. They’re showing that these aren’t just things “Coach says” but tools they can apply off the golf course.

Take the 4 Rs: Relax, Replay, Ready, Redo. The first time a coach walks your child through this after a mishit, they’re hearing four steps while feeling embarrassed. But by the fifth or tenth time, you’ll start seeing them do it on their own. They’ll take a deep breath, step back, and reset — not because someone explained it perfectly once, but because their coach consistently showed them how.

What the science says

Here’s what research tells us about how kids learn (and what you probably already know from watching your own child):

Kids need to see concepts in multiple contexts before they can transfer them. Their brains are literally building neural pathways that get stronger each time they practice. One exposure creates awareness. Multiple exposures create competence. In fact, learning research suggests people typically need about seven exposures to new information before they can truly retain and apply it, which is why consistent coaching across different situations matters so much.

Developmentally, your child isn’t the same kid they were six months ago. The 8-year-old who needed help thinking through consequences is now 9 and ready to anticipate them more independently. When coaches revisit life skills, they’re meeting your child where they are now.

You might hear your child’s coach reference the same life skill multiple times throughout the season, and that’s intentional. They’re not being redundant; they’re being effective. Here’s how First Tee coaches reinforce learning:

  • Naming it when they see it. When your child demonstrates grit or uses a life skill independently, coaches call it out in the moment.
  • Connecting across contexts. Coaches reference the same life skill in different situations – on the green, on the range, in the classroom and more.
  • Asking reflection questions at the end of each class. “Where else have you used STAR this week?”
  • Modeling it themselves. Coaches let participants see them using these skills when facing their own challenges.
  • Celebrating progress, not perfection. Coaches notice when your child applies a life skill even imperfectly because that’s growth.

Supporting this learning at home

The beauty of First Tee’s approach is that these skills extend far beyond the golf course. When you hear your child mention STAR, the 4 Rs, or FAIL (First Attempt In Learning), you can reinforce what they’re learning:

  • Ask them to explain the skill to you
  • Notice when they use it at home and acknowledge it
  • Reference it yourself during challenging moments
  • Be patient — just like with golf, mastery takes time

The goal isn’t to “cover” a life skill once and check the box. The goal is to help your child internalize these skills so deeply that they become automatic, building something that lasts long after their time on the golf course.

So when you hear the same concepts come up again and again throughout the season, know that it’s all part of the plan. Each conversation, each reminder, each connection is building the foundation for the game changer your child is becoming.

Encouraging every player to shine: How First Tee addresses gaps in golf skills  

If you’ve ever worried about signing your child up for a new activity because they might be “behind” other kids, you’re not alone. It’s a common concern among parents, and one we hear when families are considering First Tee programs. 

Here’s what we want you to know: At First Tee, we’ve designed our approach so that every participant can learn, grow and have fun, regardless of where they start. 

We’ve found kids and teens genuinely enjoy being around their peers. That’s why most First Tee Chapters offer age-based programming, rather than grouping kids by skill level. This allows players to connect, laugh and learn from each other in ways that transcend golf skills. 

“First Tee coaches intentionally create optimal learning environments for participant success — fostering friendship, golf skill development and fun on the course,” said Lauren Kyaw, manager of First Tee’s coach program. “Through coaching strategies and coachable moments, coaches meet participants where they are and guide them toward mastery.” 

But we also know that a 10-year-old who’s never held a golf club has different needs than a 10-year-old who plays regularly. That’s why our coaches take a thoughtful, individualized approach within each class. 

How we make it work 

At the start of each session, our coaches determine where each participant stands with their golf skills, not through an assessment but by observing their performance in fun games and drills. This isn’t about labeling anyone or creating pressure but about understanding how we can best support each player’s journey. 

From there, we use several strategies to ensure everyone is appropriately challenged and engaged: 

Personal Par is one of our favorite concepts. Instead of holding everyone to the same standard, we encourage each player to set their own goals for activities. A beginner might aim to make contact with the ball three times in a row, while a more advanced player might work on hitting a specific target. Both students are working hard, both are achieving something meaningful and both are experiencing success. 

Flexible grouping means that while the class stays together as a unit, we’ll group players by skill level when introducing more complex techniques. At the same time, we intentionally pair advanced players with beginners during team challenges. This builds camaraderie across skill levels and allows everyone to contribute their strengths. 

Optimal challenge ensures that activities cater to multiple skill levels. Every student faces appropriate challenges … not too easy, not too frustrating, but just right for where they are in their development. 

The power of peer mentorship 

Here’s something special that happens when you mix skill levels: advanced players become natural leaders and mentors. We’ve seen countless students light up when given the opportunity to help a classmate or demonstrate a skill. This doesn’t just reinforce their own learning, it builds confidence, empathy and leadership abilities that extend far beyond the golf course. 

Many chapters also offer teen activities where golf isn’t the focus. From opportunities to build leadership skills, like teen advisory boards, to social events, like movie nights, bowling and other outings, these activities allow players of all skill levels to interact and build friendships off the course. 

Coaching that adapts to each student 

Our coaches understand that feedback isn’t one-size-fits-all. A student who’s just starting out might need encouragement and simple adjustments, while a more experienced player might benefit from more technical guidance. Our coaches modify their feedback to fit each player’s needs and learning style, ensuring that everyone receives the support that will help them improve. 

Your child doesn’t need to know anything about golf to thrive in a First Tee program. They don’t need to be naturally athletic or have prior experience. They just need to show up ready to try, to learn and to be part of a community that values growth over perfection. 

“Regardless of participants’ golf skill level, coaches bridge activities back to everyday life, helping youth overcome challenges, set goals and deal with adversity,” Kyaw said. “This ties back to First Tee’s mission and purpose: empowering participants to build character and instill life-enhancing values through golf, values they will carry far beyond the course.” 

Learn more about supporting First Tee. 

At what age should my child start playing golf? 

If you’re wondering when your child is ready to start playing golf, you’re asking the right question. The good news? There’s no single “perfect” age to begin, but there are some helpful guidelines. 

Most First Tee chapters offer age-based programming – typically starting with 7–9-year-olds – so participants play alongside their peers, who are usually at similar stages of development in terms of attention span, strength and hand-eye coordination. That said, younger children can certainly be introduced to golf, and some First Tee chapters do this in playful, age-appropriate ways.  

It’s about more than the swing 

At First Tee, we’ve seen firsthand that starting golf isn’t just about learning to hit a ball: It’s about what the game teaches you along the way. Through golf, kids develop perseverance when a shot doesn’t go as planned, integrity when keeping score and respect for others sharing the course. These character-building moments happen whether your child picks up golf at 7 or 17. 

Our programs are designed to meet kids where they are developmentally, focusing on fun, skill-building and life skills education.  

Rather than focusing solely on age, consider whether your child: 

  • Shows interest in the game (maybe they’ve watched golf on TV or asked about it) 
  • Can follow basic instructions  
  • Enjoys outdoor activities and trying new things 
  • Is ready to practice patience — golf rewards persistence, not perfection 

Starting Points Beyond Age 

The right time also depends on the environment you’re introducing them to. Programs like First Tee emphasize inclusivity, character development and creating a welcoming space for beginners. This supportive atmosphere can make all the difference, regardless of when your child starts. 

If your child is older and just discovering golf, that’s perfectly fine too. We’ve seen teenagers find their passion for the game and develop the same valuable life skills as those who started younger. Golf is a lifelong sport, and there’s truly no age when it’s “too late” to begin. 

Find a First Tee chapter near you and give your child the opportunity to experience the game that teaches so much more than golf. 

Tips for keeping your child engaged with golf this winter 

As temperatures drop and days get shorter, it can be challenging to keep junior golfers engaged with the game they’ve grown to love over the summer. But colder weather doesn’t have to mean putting golf on hold.  

With a little creativity and intention, parents can help their children maintain the skills and character development they’ve built through First Tee programs. 

Turn your living room into a practice space 

You don’t need a full golf course to work on fundamentals. If you have space, create an indoor practice area where your child can work on their grip, stance and putting stroke. A simple putting mat or even a makeshift target using household items can keep their motor memory sharp. 

The beauty of indoor practice is that it naturally encourages one of our core life skills: discipline. Even a few practice sessions a week helps maintain muscle memory and shows kids the value of consistent effort.

Make it fun for the whole family 

Winter is a perfect time to make golf a shared family experience. Watch professional tournaments together and talk about the life skills you see on display, including how players handle disappointment, show respect to competitors or demonstrate perseverance through a tough round. 

Many communities have golf simulators where the junior golfers can join their whole family to play together regardless of the weather outside. These shared experiences reinforce that golf is a lifelong pursuit that brings people together. 

Stay connected to the First Tee community 

Encourage your child to stay connected with their junior golf coaches and fellow participants. Many First Tee Chapters offer winter programming or access to the First Tee app, keeping kids engaged even when they can’t be on the course. These connections remind young people that they’re part of something bigger than themselves. 

Perhaps most importantly, continue the conversations that started at First Tee. When your child faces a challenge at school or in their personal life, reference the life skills they’ve learned in the program.  

These conversations help cement the understanding that the values learned through golf apply everywhere. Winter is an ideal time to deepen these lessons without the busy pace of summer schedules. 

 First Tee recognizes 2025 Ace recipients 

Ace is First Tee’s rigorous capstone program, which helps teens gameplan for the future 

Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. – (Dec. 8, 2025) – First Tee is proud to announce that 14 participants have successfully completed the Ace program, the organization’s premier achievement, which guides young people in planning their futures through hands-on projects and real-world skill development. 

“Achieving Ace requires considerable time, dedication and self-reflection,” said Ryan Graff, vice president of programs at First Tee. “These teens have demonstrated an incredible commitment to personal growth, and we are proud of their achievements and excited to see where their futures take them.” 

The 2025 Ace achievers represent seven First Tee chapters across the country: 

  • Will Berthiaume, First Tee – Connecticut 
  • Abelina Wakeland, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast 
  • Annika Collado, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast 
  • Elise Rivas-Mucklow, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast* 
  • Jenna Misset, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast 
  • Colby Townsend, First Tee – Greater Charlotte 
  • Colin Watson, First Tee – Greater Dallas 
  • Daniel Ferguson, First Tee – Greater Dallas 
  • Jacob Lewallen, First Tee – Greater Dallas* 
  • Aarya Shewale, First Tee – Greater Houston* 
  • Arden Han-Wei, First Tee – Greater Sacramento* 
  • Hannah Stouder, First Tee – Greater Sacramento* 
  • Evan Santoso, First Tee – Silicon Valley 
  • Tristan Hipolito, First Tee – Silicon Valley* 

*Indicates Make Your Mark grant recipient

Through the Ace program, participants explore their interests and potential career paths, while creating actionable goals. To achieve Ace, participants must complete four comprehensive projects focusing on golf, education, career and community service. 

Based on their community service projects, participants can earn grants for their local chapters to expand their impact. In 2025, six Ace participants secured Make Your Mark grants totaling $41,000 for initiatives addressing critical needs in their communities. These grants allow Ace participants to leave a legacy at their chapter and inspire future participants to do the same. 

First Tee – Greater Sacramento received $10,000 in recognition of Hannah Stouder’s “Hannah’s Care Closet,” which provides free essential items to elementary school students in need. First Tee – Greater Houston received $10,000 in recognition of Aarya Shewale’s “Katy Chess Academy,” which helps kids develop life skills through chess instruction. 

For more information about the Ace program and how to get involved, visit firsttee.org/ace. 

Keeping kids safe: How SafeSport strengthens our commitment to youth 

At First Tee, creating safe, supportive environments where young people can thrive is fundamental to everything we do. That’s why we follow the guidelines established by the U.S. Center for SafeSport, a critical framework that helps us protect the participants we serve. 

The U.S. Center for SafeSport is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending all forms of abuse in sport. Its comprehensive approach includes: 

  • Education for coaches, volunteers and administrators 
  • Policies that define misconduct and establish reporting procedures 
  • A centralized reporting system for investigating allegations of misconduct 

The organization’s mission is straightforward: ensure that sports remain an enriching experience free from abuse and misconduct. While golf might look different from competitive team sports, the principles of SafeSport align with our mission of building character and life skills in young people.  

We mandate background checks and SafeSport training for all First Tee coaches and staff because: 

  • Protecting participants comes first. Young people deserve to learn and grow in environments where they feel safe, respected and valued. SafeSport training equips our staff and volunteers with the knowledge to create safe spaces and respond appropriately if concerns arise. 
  • Prevention is our top priority. SafeSport’s emphasis on education helps our entire First Tee network understand what constitutes misconduct, recognize warning signs and know the proper steps for reporting concerns. This proactive approach is far more effective than reactive measures alone. 
  • SafeSport helps us build trust with families. Through research in collaboration with The Harris Poll, we know parents show a strong preference for coaches who are trained background checked. Following SafeSport guidelines demonstrates our serious commitment to that responsibility and provides families with confidence that we’re taking every reasonable measure to keep young people safe. 

We’re not just checking a box; we’re making an ongoing commitment that includes regular training and continuous improvement of our safety practices. By following SafeSport guidelines, we’re ensuring that every young person who walks into a First Tee Chapter can focus on what matters most: developing their skills and discovering their potential. 

Support First Tee’s efforts to build Game Changers.

Creating an inclusive First Tee experience: Partnering with parents to support participants with IEPs and 504 Plans

By Kristin Westberg – Senior Director, Training & Evaluation

At First Tee, we’re committed to helping all young people build character, confidence and life skills through golf. That includes participants with diverse learning needs — some of whom may have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan.

These plans are designed to help students succeed in school, but they can also provide valuable insights for our coaches and volunteers. With participants back in school, now is a perfect time to discuss with your chapter how it can meet your child’s needs. By working closely with families, we can create a more inclusive, supportive and empowering experience for every participant.

Why parent partnerships matter

Parents and caregivers are the best source of knowledge about their child’s strengths, challenges and what helps them thrive. When we build trust and open lines of communication, we can better understand how to support each participant in a way that’s respectful, personalized and effective.

What to share during the intake process

You don’t need to provide chapters with the full IEP or 504 Plan — just the essentials that will help them provide a great experience. Here are a few questions to consider:

  • Does your child have an IEP or 504 Plan?
  • Are there specific accommodations or strategies that work well for them?
  • Are there any triggers or challenges we should be aware of?
  • What are your child’s strengths and interests?
  • What helps your child feel safe, confident and included?

This information can be summarized into a simple “Participant Snapshot” for coaches to reference, helping them tailor instruction and interactions in a meaningful way.

Program adaptations that make a big impact

Here are a few adaptations our chapters have made that can help participants with IEPs or 504 Plans thrive:

  • Visual schedules: They may use boards or laminated sheets to show the day’s activities in order.
  • Instructional cue cards: They may provide visual prompts for golf skills or life skills as reminders.
  • Color-coded zones: They often use cones or other items to mark areas and support transitions.
  • Behavior supports: They may offer “break cards” or “feelings charts” to help participants communicate their needs.

These tools support not only students with learning differences but also help all participants feel more confident and engaged.

The Power of Listening and Learning

By listening to families, being flexible and showing a willingness to adapt and learn, First Tee Chapters can create spaces where all kids feel valued and supported.

From course to career: Coach Stuart demonstrates the transformative power of First Tee mentors 

Accenture, a global professional services company and First Tee Trustee, hosts a personal development session for staff members at its Atlanta office on the first Friday of each month. Stuart Furlow had no idea one of these workshops would lead to one of the most rewarding experiences of his professional life. While working as a manufacturing and operations consultant, Stuart was also looking for a way to give back, and First Tee – Metro Atlanta provided the perfect opportunity. 

Growing up, Stuart learned golf from his father, uncle and cousin. The game had been a part of his life, but he’d never considered becoming a coach. “It was perfect timing,” Stuart said about discovering First Tee. “I just finished a project and heard about the volunteer opportunity. I wanted to be a mentor. I wanted to teach the game of golf and learn about First Tee.” Little did Stuart know, he would create a meaningful relationship with a participant named Ethan, helping to shape his bright future ahead. 

A mentorship built on more than golf 

Ethan Herndon didn’t take up golf by choice. When his dad first brought him to First Tee – Metro Atlanta at 8 years old, he went “begrudgingly,” following in his older sister’s footsteps. But that day changed everything. While golf can be portrayed as a sport for older and wealthier people, “First Tee is the opposite of that – it’s for everybody,” he said. 

For the next decade, Ethan returned to John A. White Golf Course every Saturday. By the time Stuart joined First Tee as a coach three years ago, Ethan was a high school freshman starting to think seriously about his future. 

Stuart immediately noticed something special about Ethan. “His work ethic: He was always one of the first kids out there, starting before we even got the chance to begin our actual lesson,” Stuart said. “We started talking and learning more about each other. I learned what he was interested in, what his aspirations were, and I started to add a little bit of feedback and my own perspective.” 

For Ethan, Stuart became more than just a golf coach. “He had a lot of advice that was very beneficial to me: looking at majors, programs, scholarships, things I hadn’t heard from other people before,” Ethan said. “He gave me a different outlook.” 

What made Stuart’s mentorship particularly meaningful was his genuine concern for Ethan’s overall wellbeing. “While shooting low scores and hitting good shots are important, Coach Stuart always wanted to make sure we were doing good in school, mentally, physically, and that everything was going well,” Ethan said. “He was truly concerned about our wellbeing and how we were as people versus just golfers.” 

The power of partnership 

Stuart’s commitment to First Tee reflects Accenture’s broader values. “The partnership between Accenture and First Tee is something that Accenture takes great pride in,” Stuart said. “We continuously talk about making an impact in the communities we serve.” 

But for Stuart, the impact goes beyond corporate social responsibility; it’s personal. Stuart sees his role as helping participants like Ethan navigate life with the benefit of his own experience. 

Through the Hope Tee Shot and other programs, Accenture’s support of First Tee and its Metro Atlanta chapter extend beyond participants’ time in high school. “It doesn’t stop after you leave the program,” Stuart said. “We want to continue supporting current students and alumni through all the avenues of life.” 

Today, Ethan has spent 10 years with First Tee – Metro Atlanta, transforming from a reluctant golfer into a young man with clear goals and the confidence to pursue them. Stuart’s mentorship played a crucial role in that journey, not just teaching him about golf, but helping him understand the possibilities ahead. 

Their story demonstrates the true mission of First Tee: using golf as a vehicle to build character and teach life skills that extend far beyond the course. And for volunteers like Stuart, it’s proof that giving back can be one of the most rewarding experiences of all. 

Learn more about how you can support young people like Ethan. 

Margaret Kerr of First Tee – Greater Houston, Julio Rodas-Rhim of First Tee – Metropolitan New York win pro-junior titles at 2025 PURE Insurance Championship  

Kerr and Rodas-Rhim were paired with pros Steven Alker and David Bransdon respectively 

PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. (Sept. 21, 2025) – After a week of exciting competition and personal growth, Margaret Kerr of Friendswood, Texas, and Julio Rodas-Rhim of New York City are the junior winners of the 2025 PURE Insurance Championship impacting First Tee, an official PGA TOUR Champions event, which concluded Sunday at Pebble Beach.  

Both Kerr and Rodas-Rhim sealed their victories Sunday with birdies on Pebble Beach’s iconic par-3 17th hole. Kerr and Alker finished 18-under to win by one stroke. Rodas-Rhim and Bransdon finished 16-under and won in a scorecard playoff. 

For more than 20 years, the PURE Insurance Championship has provided First Tee participants with the unique opportunity to showcase the skills and values they’ve gained through the program. Held at the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill Golf Course, the tournament pairs 80 standout teens from First Tee Chapters nationwide with PGA TOUR Champions players and amateurs from the business community. The annual event was broadcast internationally on Golf Channel. 

“This week, the 80 young representatives of First Tee demonstrated perseverance, personality and exceptional talent on the course,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of First Tee. “We extend our congratulations to Margaret and Julio on their outstanding victory. And we are sincerely grateful to PURE Insurance, Chevron, Monterey Peninsula Foundation, PGA TOUR Champions players, Golf Channel and all our generous partners for helping make this an unforgettable experience for our participants.” 

First Tee – Greater Houston’s Margaret Kerr is a 16-year-old junior at Clear Springs High School, who’s been playing golf for 10 years. She referees lacrosse games, fosters dogs and completed Ace, First Tee’s capstone program designed to help teens prepare for the future. 

“I don’t even think I can put it in words; life doesn’t feel real right now,” Kerr said. “I was so supported this week by not only my pro, but his caddie, his family – everybody.” 

First Tee – Metropolitan New York’s Rodas-Rhim is a 17-year-old senior at Fordham Preparatory School. In addition to earning a black belt in martial arts, he has been playing golf for 13 years. He was the New York State Catholic High School Athletic Association’s 2025 individual champion, and he plans to attend college somewhere warm so he can play golf all year. 

“I’m very grateful for this experience,” Rodas-Rhim said. “I really wanted to make my grandparents proud because they got me into golf in the first place, and them getting to see me on TV is probably a dream come true of mine.” 

During the week, First Tee partners PURE Insurance and Chevron celebrated their commitment to First Tee’s mission and raised additional funds to support the First Tee College Scholarship Program through special events. The program pairs select First Tee alumni with a mentor and provides professional development workshops and financial assistance throughout their college experience.  

This week, leaders from PURE Insurance surprised Malakai Jazayeri of First Tee – Phoenix and Ashton Washington of First Tee – Tampa Bay with invitations to become the newest members of the First Tee College Scholarship Program. 

First Tee is a youth development organization that teaches life skills and helps kids and teens build their strength of character through golf. The PURE Insurance Championship is one of several national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters to encourage and motivate participants as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities.  

To access photos from the event, visit here. For more information on the tournament, visit PUREInsuranceChampionship.com. To learn more about First Tee and see the full field list, visit FirstTee.org.  

Guidance and growth: Inside the bond between a First Tee Scholar, mentor

One of the most impactful aspects of the First Tee College Scholarship Program is mentorship. Each Scholar is matched with a dedicated adult to support them as they enter college and prepare for life after graduation.

First Tee Scholar Esther Etherington is a senior at Franklin College, where she’s majoring in elementary education and nonprofit leadership with plans to enter the golf industry. Last summer, Esther interned with First Tee — Greater Charleston’s Pathfinder Program and served as a USGA Pathways intern at the U.S. Open. This past summer, Esther worked at her former chapter, First Tee — Indiana, as the site director in Richmond. Her team helped to successfully launch three new community partnerships with the Boys & Girls Club, Girls Inc. and Townsend Community Center, reaching its highest number of participants since COVID-19, 160 youth.

Esther’s mentor is Hope Oaks, a Ball State University graduate. Hope is a health science systems specialist at Pfizer, Inc., and she currently serves on the board of directors for the Indiana Golf Foundation and the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation. 

They shared their experience and tips on building a successful mentor-mentee relationship.

FT: Describe your experience as a Scholar mentor.

HO: I felt honored when asked to be Esther’s mentor because I had already been a witness to her leadership at First Tee when she would speak at our fundraising events while she was in high school.  Her confidence, authenticity and desire to share the gifts she was given resonated with me. 

FT: How did you build trust with your mentee?  

HO: My experience has been that trust is built with time and keeping commitments with one another.  My mentors have set a good example for me by creating a safe space to share questions, challenges, goals, disappointments, frustrations and the emotions that go with them.  It’s vital to know you can 100% show up and express your true self.   

FT: What is one word you’d use to describe your mentoring relationship and why?  

HO: Joy. Whenever the next thing on the calendar is coming up that we have set, I know that our time together will result in a happy spirit and a positive memory.  Esther inspires me and we both have similar humor.   

FT: Describe a memorable moment you’ve shared with your mentee. 

HO: One of my favorite moments was this summer when I spent the day observing and volunteering at Esther’s First Tee location in Richmond. Her organization and leadership skills are to be coveted. It was so much fun to see it all in action with her coaches, volunteers and students.  She was truly sharing her gifts with the world. The parents were happy their kids were in the program, and you could see the kids were delighted to be there and having fun while learning. Esther is a connection and networking queen, and she built a successful program in less than six months from scratch because of her reputation and genuine relationships in her community. She connects with each child at their level: kindness, care, thoughtfulness and fun are all in her bag of superpowers. She continues to inspire me as an example and I’m grateful for the opportunity this program has afforded us.   

FT: How has your mentor helped you feel more confident or prepared for life after college?   

EE: Hope has helped me feel more prepared for life after college by celebrating and capitalizing on my strengths. Her perspective has provided valuable connections, advice and friendship which has made me a better and more well-rounded person.  

FT: How do you feel your relationship with your mentor has changed your college experience? 

EE: The relationship that I have with Hope has been a transformative part of my college experience because she is a close member on my “go to” team. Hope is always a phone call or text message away.  

FT: Drawing from what you’ve observed in your peers’ mentoring relationships, what advice would you share with someone just starting out as a mentor? 

EE: When you are just starting out as a mentor, it is important to remember that the mentor and mentee relationship is a two-way street. Your mentor is there for you in the highs and lows of college and beyond, so effort and transparency are important.  

FT: Describe a memorable moment you’ve shared with your mentor.   

EE: We have had many memorable moments including going to a Purdue basketball game, the Indy Jazz Kitchen and lots of golf together. At the top of the list includes Hope traveling from Indianapolis when I was the site director at First Tee – Indiana in Richmond to volunteer with the kids.