Category: Blog

 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. 

Participant Spotlight: Meet Jacob!

Jacob has been a First Tee – Sandhills participant since 2021, attending programs at Pinewild and building a deep love for the game. From day one, he brought curiosity, energy, and a genuine excitement to learn. Whether he’s working on his full swing or tackling a new challenge on the course, Jacob shows up ready to grow, and always with a smile.

Finding Confidence and Connection

One of the things Jacob loves most about First Tee is the connection he feels with his coaches and peers. He thrives in an environment where encouragement, support, and recognition are part of the culture. His positive attitude and sincere interactions remind us each week why meaningful relationships matter just as much as golf skills. Every Wednesday at Pinewild, Jacob’s enthusiasm sets the tone. He’s the kind of participant who lifts others up simply by being himself.

A Simple Hello That Sparked Something Special

A few weeks ago, during his full swing station, Jacob noticed a gentleman walking by with his golf bag. Without hesitation, Jacob offered one of his characteristic warm greetings: “Hi, how are you doing today?” The gentleman smiled and responded. Jacob then added a polite, thoughtful compliment about his Tiger Woods driver cover, a small detail that many might overlook, but Jacob noticed immediately. Moments later, the gentleman, Michael, approached quietly and asked, “Would it be alright if I gave Jacob my club head cover?” It wasn’t just any cover; it was the iconic Tiger Woods tiger head cover.

An Unexpected Gift of Kindness

With Jacob’s dad giving his blessing, we introduced the two. Jacob shook Michael’s hand and introduced himself with his usual sincerity and grace. When Michael offered him the head cover, Jacob hesitated, surprised and humbled before accepting: “Thank you very much, that’s very kind!” The two walked together to test the cover on Jacob’s driver, and it fit perfectly. Jacob even asked, with his thoughtful charm, if they could “trade covers,” and Michael happily agreed. What began as a simple exchange turned into a genuine moment of connection between two golfers from different generations.

A Lasting Impact

The following week, Jacob spotted Michael walking by again. Before Michael could say a word, Jacob called out with excitement: “Hi Mr. Michael! Thank you again for the club cover, I named him Jackson, and he’s helping my swing!” In true Jacob fashion, he had given the tiger cover a name and a purpose, proudly incorporating it into his golf routine.

More Than Golf: The Heart of Our Mission

Moments like these are why First Tee exists. What happened between Jacob and Michael wasn’t planned, structured, or part of a lesson plan. It was pure, authentic connection, sparked by kindness, curiosity, and the character-building opportunities that come naturally when young people are supported on and off the course. Jacob continues to inspire everyone around him, his coaches, his peers, and now, even golfers who just happen to be walking by. And that’s the beauty of First Tee – Sandhills. Golf does bring us together, but it’s the relationships, lessons, and little moments that leave a lasting impact forever!

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.

A commitment to service: Military veterans share why they volunteer at First Tee 

For many veterans, the transition from military service to civilian life means finding new ways to serve their communities. At First Tee, coaches with military backgrounds bring unique perspectives shaped by years of discipline, leadership and dedication to something greater than themselves. 

This Veterans Day, we spoke with three First Tee coaches who served in different branches of the military about their experiences, why service matters to them and what keeps them coming back to the course to mentor young people. 

Coach Joshua Grantham, First Tee – Phoenix 

Coach Joshua served in the U.S. Marine Corps from January 2002 to October 2008, achieving the title of Reconnaissance Marine. He helped to counter IEDs and capture high-value Al-Qaeda leaders in Iraq. He credits three Bible verses for driving his passion for service: 

  • “For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But do not use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.” Galatians 5:13 
  • “So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” John 13:34-35 
  • “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others.” Matthew 20:25 

Coach Joshua began his journey with First Tee as a parent. “Once I received some training on the First Tee Building Blocks and Coaching Philosophy, I was hooked,” he said. “I have implemented many of the strategies in my own parenting with great success.” 

His favorite moments on the golf course come when kids light up after hitting a great shot. “Ultimately, it is watching them shift their mindset from outcome to process, learning that they can accomplish anything,” he said. 
 
Coach Devin Shaw, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast 

Coach Devin served 12 years in the U.S. Army as a Unit Supply Specialist. He was responsible for ensuring soldiers had the equipment and resources needed to accomplish the mission. It was a role that required organization, accountability and a strong sense of service to others. 

“Service is about purpose, sacrifice and being part of something greater than yourself,” he said. “The Army had a clear mission, and serving my country gave me a deep sense of fulfillment. I took great pride in being a soldier and in contributing to something that mattered beyond my own life.” 

First Tee – Florida Gold Coast offers a golf program for veterans at Dyer Park, which was the original draw for Coach Devin. “The friendships and bonds I’ve formed through those programs have truly improved my quality of life. It gave me a sense of community again – something I really missed after leaving the military,” he said. 

 What keeps Coach Devin coming back to First Tee is getting to help new golfers experience the thrill of the perfect shot – and grow their confidence – one swing at a time. 

Coach Steve Napier, First Tee – Greater Washington DC 

Coach Steve spent 25 years as an Air Force intelligence officer, working at Air Force Special Operations Command and the Pentagon. The highlight of his career was being selected as Squadron Commander, leading over 210 personnel conducting various intelligence missions. 

Coach Steve originally wanted to fly but found out he was too tall. “I learned there was much more to being in the Air Force — the camaraderie, the focus on mission, and as I progressed, mentoring the new airmen and officers on their life and career,” he said. It was his passion for mentorship that inspired him to join First Tee as a coach.  

He was watching golf one day while stationed in Hawaii and saw a First Tee ad. “I didn’t know much about it, so I did some research and felt it was something I would like to be a part of, especially since I was getting close to retirement,” he said. He joined First Tee – Hawaii as a volunteer coach and later got involved with First Tee – Greater Washington DC. 

For Coach Steve, it means a lot when kids and parents keep returning to First Tee, and he’s seen participants grow over the years. “I love seeing their progress as kids and golfers, and a few are playing in some junior golfer tournaments,” he said. 

This Veterans Day, we’re grateful for coaches like Joshua, Devin, Steve and the hundreds of other veterans who volunteer at First Tee chapters across the country. Their continued service makes a lasting impact on the next generation. Learn more about volunteering at First Tee. 

Actress, First Tee alumna Kathryn Newton to headline First Tee 2025 Drive Your Future Academy presented by John Deere 

The annual female empowerment event will be making its Ponte Vedra Beach debut 

Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. – (Nov. 6, 2025) – First Tee and John Deere will welcome 36 girls from across the country to the 2025 Drive Your Future Academy, a five-day leadership program created to help girls develop critical skills that will serve them in college and beyond.  

Known for her many movie and television roles, First Tee Ambassador Kathryn Newton will take part in a fireside chat. As an alumna of First Tee – Miami, she brings both a personal connection to the organization and a passion for empowering the next generation. Newton and other adult mentors will also join the girls for a golf outing at The Yards. 

November 7, 2025: Attendees play golf at The Yards and take part in a workshop with a John Deere executive during the First Tee Drive Your Future Academy in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL.

From Nov. 6-10, female leaders from organizations like John Deere, CapTech, Accenture and Cisco will lead sessions including:  

  • Advocating for yourself and others  
  • Overcoming adverse situations  
  • Cultivating meaningful relationships  
  • Roadmap to successful mentorship  
  • Embracing self-awareness  

The 36 teen participants will also lead a volunteer opportunity at the Salvation Army and explore historic downtown St. Augustine. 

The event reinforces First Tee’s commitment to empowering girls through its programs, which are offered through 150 chapters across the country. Most First Tee Chapters provide dedicated programming for girls, intentionally inviting and engaging them in a variety of opportunities. The First Tee Drive Your Future Academy presented by John Deere is one of a full slate of teen participant events that are open to girls in the First Tee Network.    

“With our commitment to providing innovative solutions to our customers, John Deere is always looking ahead, and our support of the Drive Your Future Academy is no exception,” said Bridget Dusing, sponsorship and events marketing manager at John Deere. “We are proud to support First Tee and the opportunities they provide to help prepare the next generation of leaders.”  

The teens were selected for the Drive Your Future Academy through a national application process based on essays, letters of recommendation and involvement in First Tee and other activities.    

“The Drive Your Future Academy represents everything we believe about the power of investing in young women — when girls develop confidence, leadership skills and meaningful connections early, they don’t just succeed in golf, they transform entire industries and communities,”  said Jennifer Weiler, senior vice president of network relations at First Tee. “We’re proud to partner with John Deere to create this transformative experience that equips these 36 young leaders with the tools and network they need to break barriers and drive change in whatever field they choose.”    

Since 2012, John Deere has supported First Tee, a youth development organization celebrating nearly three decades of teaching life skills and helping kids and teens build their strength of character through golf.  

    

First Tee, Golf Digest honor 2025 network award winners advancing youth through golf

Golf Digest awards $175,000 to winning First Tee chapters in celebration of their impact

Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. – (Nov. 5, 2025) – In partnership with Golf Digest, First Tee is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 network awards, recognizing outstanding individuals and chapters who exemplify the organization’s mission to empower young people through golf.

“First Tee has more than 10,000 passionate and committed adults who are involved in supporting chapters throughout the network,” said CEO Greg McLaughlin. “Congratulations to those selected for our 2025 network awards. Our mission would not be possible without their involvement and leadership. We are also very grateful to Golf Digest for their continued support of First Tee and our chapters.”

The awards celebrate the transformative work of coaches, volunteers, educators and leaders across the First Tee network. In recognition of their achievements, Golf Digest will award $175,000 in grants to support the honorees and their chapters.

“We are proud to honor these inspiring individuals and chapters who bring the game of golf to kids of all backgrounds,” said Chris Reynolds, general manager of Golf Digest. “Their dedication helps shape character and confidence far beyond the course.”

First Tee offers programming at golf courses, schools and community sites across the country and in select international locations, impacting more than 3.1 million youth annually. It celebrates its annual award winners each fall. This year’s recipients are:

Tim Finchem Leadership Award: Andrew Hunt, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast
Founder of First Tee – Treasure Coast (now part of First Tee – Florida Gold Coast), Hunt has served as a board member and passionate mentor since 2012. His personal contributions total more than $3.5 million to various First Tee chapters and national initiatives. Most notably, he provided $450,000 to establish a new learning center in Fort Pierce, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast’s most underserved community.

Coach of the Year: Anthony Rodriguez, First Tee – Metropolitan New York
With 15 years of dedicated service, “Coach Arod” contributed more than a thousand hours of instruction in the past year alone. He’s been an integral part of the chapter’s efforts to make golf more accessible to New York City kids and teens, including an outreach initiative at Mosholu Golf Course in the Bronx. 

George H.W. Bush Volunteer of the Year: Allen Doyle, First Tee – Troup County
A former professional golfer, Doyle has led First Tee – Troup County for two decades as its board president and largest donor. Known for his hands-on approach, he mows grass, repairs clubs and coaches at the chapter every weekend.

Teacher of the Year:  Michelle Phillips LeBlanc, First Tee – Atlantic
Based at Forest Glen School in New Brunswick, Phillips LeBlanc has introduced over 400 students to the game of golf. She’s organized golf course field trips and a STEM mini golf challenge, where students design a course in the gym and welcome parents to play.

Each of the chapters will receive $25,000 from Golf Digest to further their impact. First Tee – Canada will split its prize with Forest Glen School. Additionally, Golf Digest will make financial contributions to three chapters that are being recognized with the Barbara A. Douglas & Dr. William J. Powell Community Award, which celebrates chapters that are championing access and inclusivity.

  • First Tee – Greater Richmond ($35,000)
    Hosting over 25 annual field trips for Title I schools, this chapter has impacted 500+ kids through partnerships with organizations like the Boys & Girls Club and Police Athletic League.
  • First Tee – Birmingham ($25,000)
    The chapter boasts a diverse roster of board members and coaches, ensuring every participant has an advocate or mentor with whom they identify. It also offers scholarships to all participants on free- or reduced-lunch programs.
  • First Tee – East Baton Rouge Parish ($15,000)
    Led by executive director Henry Pointer, Louisiana’s first Black PGA professional, this chapter maintains deep partnerships with local schools and nonprofits.

Addison Murphy brings heart, hustle and hope to Drive Your Future Academy

Addison Murphy’s grandpa first handed her a golf club when she was just 3. In addition to introducing her to the sport she loves, her family instilled other values that guide her way.

“If you want something, you have to work for it,” she said. “Things don’t just happen on their own. You have to show up and keep trying, even when it gets frustrating or doesn’t go the way you hoped.”

That philosophy has carried her through significant life transitions, including a move from Georgia to Pennsylvania in 2022. Starting fresh in a new city and school wasn’t easy, but Addison kept showing up and growing her community.

Though golf had always been part of Addison’s life, she didn’t begin playing seriously until age 13, when her mother discovered First Tee while searching for golf classes. Since joining First Tee – Greater Philadelphia, Addison has become one of the chapter’s most engaged participants, attending over 45 classes across seven locations in just the past year.

Her dedication has paid off both on and off the course – from Top 3 finishes at chapter tournaments to unique experiences, like serving as a standard bearer at the 2025 Truist Championship, Addison has made the most of her time with First Tee – Greater Philadelphia. Now she’s preparing to embark on a new adventure: attending the 2025 First Tee Drive Your Future Academy presented by John Deere.

At the five-day female-empowerment event held in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, Addison and her cohort will hear from accomplished female business leaders on topics like networking, building confidence and the importance of giving back.

Unleashing her potential

A high school sophomore, Addison has already demonstrated a passion for entrepreneurship. She completed First Tee – Greater Philadelphia’s Caddie Academy earlier this year, and she spoke at the chapter’s annual fundraising event, addressing a crowd of more than 150 donors.

Her service work spans multiple areas. Through her church youth group, she’s participated in local service projects and even traveled to the Dominican Republic to help build a house for a family in need. Her passion for animals led her to contribute over 200 hours to Rucker Dog Training in Georgia, helping foster and prepare therapy dogs for schools, community programs and law enforcement — work that earned her the AKC Canine & Me Community Achievement Award in 2022 and a certificate of appreciation from the Gainesville Police Department.

After moving to Pennsylvania, Addison didn’t let distance stop her community engagement. She launched “Addie Trains Puppers,” her own dog walking and training business.

‘Challenges can turn into growth’

As Addison prepares for the Drive Your Future Academy, she’s exploring multiple potential career paths, from business and architecture to music production. Whatever direction she ultimately chooses, her approach will likely remain the same: show up, work hard and keep pushing forward.

“Challenges can turn into growth if you don’t give up,” she said, reflecting on bunker struggles, big moves and the ongoing journey of becoming who she wants to be.

The Drive Your Future Academy will bring together exceptional young women from across the First Tee network for leadership development, career exploration and empowerment. For Addison Murphy, it’s another opportunity to grow, give back and represent what First Tee stands for: building game changers, both on the course and in life.

Participant Spotlight: Meet Porter!

Each month, we take time to recognize one of our incredible participants who embodies what it means to be a part of First Tee – Sandhills. This month, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Porter from our Stryker Program!

Coach Lisa and Francela shared,

“I’d like to nominate Porter because I’ve seen such incredible growth in him, not just in skill, but in character. He’s become a true team player who always uplifts those around him. What stands out most is how much confidence and focus he’s gained. He sets goals for himself, stays eager to learn, and truly listens to the coaches. Porter shows that hard work and a positive attitude make all the difference, and I couldn’t be prouder of the young person he’s becoming.”

This is Porter’s very first year playing with us at First Tee – Sandhills, but his journey with the program actually started years ago. Before stepping onto the course himself, Porter spent many days cheering from the sidelines as his older brother, Rhett, participated. Now it’s finally his turn, and he’s made the most of every moment!

When we asked Porter about his favorite part of being in the program, he didn’t hesitate, “The people!” He absolutely adores the coaches, loves making new friends, and says his favorite activity is taking full swings on the range. Porter’s mom also shared that he looks forward to each week of class, always excited to learn new skills, grow his confidence, and soak in the life lessons his coaches share. That positive attitude shines through in everything he does, both on and off the course.

When he’s not golfing, Porter keeps life full of energy and adventure! He practices Taekwondo, rides scooters, plays video games, and spends time with his big brother, Rhett. At home, he’s also got quite the crew…two dogs, Drake and Matilda, and a bearded dragon named Leo, who rounds out the family perfectly!

We’re so proud of Porter for the effort, enthusiasm, and kindness he brings to every class. He reminds us that progress isn’t just about perfecting your swing, it’s about showing up and having fun, too!

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. 

First Tee – Sandhills Alumni Alex Nguyen Selected for 2025 AWS re:Invent Global Conference

We’re beyond proud to share some incredible news from our First Tee – Sandhills family! Former participant and alumni Alex Nguyen, has been selected to attend the 2025 AWS re:Invent Global Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada, taking place November 30 through December 5.

This prestigious opportunity is part of a continued partnership between Amazon Web Services (AWS) and First Tee, now in its third year. The initiative connects outstanding First Tee alumni with hands-on professional development, leadership training, and exposure to the world of cloud technology and innovation.

Out of more than 50 applicants from across the country, only 18 alumni were selected to attend, and we’re thrilled to see Alex representing First Tee – Sandhills among this inspiring group of young leaders.

Alex first joined First Tee – Sandhills as a junior golfer and quickly stood out for his work ethic, positive attitude, and natural leadership. From perfecting his swing to mentoring younger participants, he always approached challenges with determination and heart, qualities that continue to drive his success today.

At the AWS re:Invent Global Conference, Alex will have the opportunity to network with professionals, gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology, and participate in workshops designed to build leadership and career readiness. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that bridges the gap between the lessons learned on the course and the skills needed to thrive in the modern workforce.

We couldn’t be prouder of Alex and can’t wait to follow his journey in Las Vegas and beyond. His story is a powerful reminder that the lessons learned through golf, integrity, perseverance, and confidence, continues to make an impact long after the final putt drops.

Congratulations, Alex! The entire First Tee – Sandhills community is cheering you on every step of the way.

We will be back with an update after the event date!

Participant Spotlight: Meet Giuliana!

If you’ve ever been to a First Tee – Sandhills class and heard laughter mixed with the sound of a solid putt, chances are it came from Giuliana. This bright and energetic participant brings sunshine to every class, and her enthusiasm for both the game and her friends is truly contagious.

Giuliana first joined First Tee eager to learn the fundamentals of golf, but she’s discovered something even more rewarding along the way, friendship and personal growth. “My favorite part is making new friends every week and noticing how I’m getting better with each practice,” she shared with a big smile. And that dedication shows! Each week, her confidence grows, whether she’s refining her putting stroke or encouraging her teammates from across the green.

Giuliana is known for bringing a spark of positivity to everything she does. From the moment she steps onto the course, she’s smiling, encouraging her teammates, and giving every drill her full attention. What makes Giuliana stand out isn’t just her growing golf skills, it’s her heart. She celebrates others’ successes just as much as her own, reminding everyone that golf is about having fun while learning together.

Each week, Giuliana shows up eager to grow, both as a golfer and a person. Her enthusiasm is contagious, her kindness genuine, and her laughter impossible not to smile at. Whether she’s nailing a putt, helping a friend line up their shot, or sharing a funny moment between drills, she embodies everything First Tee stands for: confidence, respect, and joy in the journey.

When asked what advice she’d give to new participants, Giuliana didn’t hesitate:

“Work hard, listen to the instructors, but also remember to have fun.”

Off the course, Giuliana’s creativity shines just as bright. She loves painting, riding her bike, and making friendship bracelets (which she often gifts to her golf friends!). At home, she shares her world with two dogs, Coco and Capone, and her biggest fan, her 5-year-old brother Domenic, who already dreams of joining her on the golf course one day!

Giuliana truly embodies what it means to grow through the game, not just in skill, but in spirit. We’re so proud to have her as part of the First Tee – Sandhills family, and we can’t wait to see where her positivity, hard work, and heart take her next!