A Passion for Mentorship & Golf
Originally from the cold, snowy state of Michigan, John and his wife made the move to Pinehurst for a change of pace, drawn by the warmer weather and the promise of year-round golf. It didn’t take long for him to discover First Tee – Sandhills, where he found a meaningful way to combine his love of the game with his passion for working with young people.
In 2020, John joined us as a volunteer, eager to make a difference in the lives of kids in our community. From the very beginning, he embraced First Tee’s core values, serving as a role model and mentor while helping young golfers develop both their skills on the course and the character traits that will serve them for a lifetime. His dedication to setting a positive example and fostering confidence in kids made him a standout leader in our program.
From Coach to Curriculum Innovator
John’s commitment to First Tee only grew stronger over the years. He pursued additional training, becoming a Level II Coach to deepen his impact as an instructor and mentor. But his contributions didn’t stop there. John’s background in engineering allowed him to bring a unique perspective to our programming.
Recognizing the natural connection between golf and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), John played an instrumental role in shaping our STEM Camp Curriculum. By integrating concepts like physics, geometry, and aerodynamics into engaging, hands-on activities, he helped create a program that not only enhances kids’ golf skills but also sparks curiosity and critical thinking. His innovative approach has made STEM Camp one of the most exciting learning experiences we offer!
A New Chapter: Board of Directors
Now, John is taking his leadership to the next level as a member of our Board of Directors. His deep understanding of First Tee’s mission, coupled with his firsthand experience as a coach and mentor, makes him a valuable asset to our organization. He brings fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and a strategic vision that will help us continue to grow and impact even more young lives through the game of golf.
John’s journey from volunteer to board member is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and community. We are incredibly grateful for his ongoing commitment to First Tee – Sandhills and excited to see the positive influence he will have in this new role.
Please join us in congratulating John on this well-deserved position! We can’t wait to see all the great things he will accomplish as part of our leadership team!