Category: Blog

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. 

First Tee’s 2026 national events connect teens with mentors, experiences that shape their futures

Signature programs bring young people face-to-face with business leaders, professional athletes and life-changing opportunities

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 26, 2026) – First Tee is pleased to announce its 2026 lineup of national participant events, offering teens powerful opportunities to grow as leaders, athletes and changemakers. Through partnerships with leading companies, organizations and generous individuals, First Tee provides experiences that challenge young people to step outside their comfort zones and discover their potential in supportive environments.

These national events are part of First Tee’s broader commitment to keeping teens actively engaged during the critical adolescent years, a need underscored by research from First Tee and The Harris Poll showing that nearly 90% of parents believe character development deserves greater emphasis in today’s society. Through First Tee’s Ace capstone program, junior coach opportunities and immersive national events, First Tee builds essential life skills and creates lasting mentor connections that help teens navigate this pivotal stage of development.

2026 Participant Events include:

Leadership Series (March 2026): In partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore, this five-week program guides participants through discovering their unique leadership values and strengths. It is held at PGA TOUR Superstore locations across the country.

National Championship (June 21-25, 2026): The University of North Carolina’s Finley Golf Club will host First Tee’s top high school golfers as they demonstrate their character and competitive skills developed through the program.

Game Changers Academy (July 18-22, 2026): Now in its 26th year, this signature event returns to Minneapolis, challenging teens to celebrate their unique perspectives and create positive change in their communities.

Leadership Summit (Aug. 3-7 and 10-14, 2026): Leadership Series graduates can apply for this adventure-based learning experience at West Creek Ranch in Montana, where PGA TOUR Superstore executives mentor participants through activities like horseback riding and whitewater rafting, designed to strengthen their leadership capabilities.

PURE Insurance Championship (September 15-20, 2026): At the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links, teens compete alongside PGA TOUR Champions players and connect with business leaders in an event broadcast on Golf Channel, blending elite golf with career mentorship.

Drive Your Future Academy (Oct. 8-12, 2026): In partnership with John Deere, this event brings young women to Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, to connect with accomplished female mentors from John Deere and other leading organizations and explore pathways for continued involvement in golf and leadership beyond high school.

Innovators Forum (Nov. 15-19, 2026): Participants collaborate with seasoned business and nonprofit leaders in Amelia Island, Florida, to design and launch community service initiatives that make a difference in their hometowns.

First Tee participant events provide opportunities for teens to pursue their interests, expand their horizons and grow as people. For some, these events represent their first time on an airplane, visiting a college campus or traveling on their own. This freedom gives teens the opportunity to use good judgment, grow through challenge and build positive self-identity.

“These events represent some of the most meaningful moments in our participants’ First Tee journey,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “We consistently hear from teens, parents and coaches that these experiences help crystallize what is possible for their futures. We are deeply grateful to AWS, John Deere, PGA TOUR Superstore, PURE Insurance, Topgolf and countless individual supporters who invest in these life-changing opportunities.”

First Tee’s national participant events serve more than 300 teens annually. Interested teens and parents should reach out to their local First Tee chapter for application information. The First Tee National Championship, Game Changers Academy and PURE Insurance Championship are currently accepting applications through March 18. High school seniors can also apply for the First Tee College Scholarship Program.

First Tee is a nonprofit youth development organization that empowers young people through the game of golf, helping them develop inner strength, confidence and life skills they’ll use on and off the course.

Meet Caitlin Patterson!

We’re excited to welcome Caitlin to the First Tee – Sandhills team! Caitlin joined First Tee – Sandhills because she wanted the opportunity to give back to the community while doing work that truly makes a difference for kids.

With five years of experience in marketing, including work connected to youth development, Caitlin was excited to bring her creativity to an organization she believes in. From photography and social media to design and storytelling, she enjoys finding ways to highlight the moments that show the heart of First Tee.

Since joining the team, Caitlin has loved capturing the stories happening every day in our programs. She’s especially passionate about sharing the life skills our participants are learning through golf and helping the community see the impact those lessons have beyond the course. Caitlin’s goal is to help more people understand what First Tee – Sandhills is all about and why the work we do matters. Through authentic storytelling and creative content, she hopes to shine a light on the kids, coaches, and volunteers who make our programs so special!

We’re excited to have Caitlin on board and can’t wait to see how her creativity continues to bring our mission to life.

Building bridges: How First Tee chapters create lasting impact through community partnerships

When First Tee chapters set out to serve young people, they don’t do it alone. The 2025 Barbara A. Douglas and Dr. William J. Powell Community Award winners demonstrate how strategic community partnerships can transform lives and strengthen entire communities. 

These three chapters share the common understanding that meaningful impact requires more than programming. It requires building authentic relationships with schools, community organizations and local institutions that share First Tee’s commitment to youth development. 

Meeting youth where they are 

First Tee – Greater Richmond has mastered the art of bringing golf and life skills directly into students’ daily lives. Through their partnership with Henrico County Public Schools, the chapter hosts over 25 Title I field trips each school year. But they’ve taken accessibility even further with Anna Julia Cooper School, a charter school in Richmond’s East End. What started as a pilot program in 2023 now allows middle school students to select golf as an elective and travel to First Tee’s facilities for immersive curriculum delivery. 

The results speak volumes: In 2024, First Tee – Greater Richmond reached more than 70,000 kids and teens, with female participation growing to 42% and over 60% of participants representing ethnically diverse backgrounds. 

Leading with representation 

First Tee – Birmingham understands that inclusion starts with who’s leading the program. The chapter has intentionally built a leadership structure that reflects the communities it serves, with a diverse board and coaching staff, partnering with HBCUs like Miles College to build this pipeline. It outpaces the First Tee network average, with more than 40% of participants coming from underserved communities, as defined by the Distressed Communities Index. 

Through community partnerships with Birmingham City Schools, i3 Academy and the Birmingham Housing Authority, the chapter brings programming directly to students who need it most. Full program scholarships for families who qualify for free and reduced lunch ensure that financial barriers never prevent participation. 

Scaling through strategic collaboration 

Under the leadership of executive director Henry Pointer, the first African American PGA Professional from Louisiana, First Tee – East Baton Rouge Parish has increased participation by over 110% in just three years. 

“Most of our community programs are located in underrepresented areas of the city,” Pointer said. “The fact that I grew up in a community such as that gave me the opportunity to play a part in impacting kids in those areas is a huge benefit to me.” 

Its partnership with Baton Rouge Recreation and Parks provides access to five public golf courses, office space and paid staff at no cost to First Tee. But BREC benefits too: First Tee provides valuable data that helps it gain and maintain accreditations. 

The chapter’s comprehensive partnership portfolio includes the 100 Black Men, Empower 225, four YMCA locations, the Louisiana National Guard summer youth camp and the Baton Rouge Youth Coalition. 

The power of sustainable partnerships 

What sets these chapters apart isn’t just the number of partnerships they’ve formed but the intentionality behind them. They seek organizations with similar missions, build relationships that benefit all parties and commit to ongoing engagement. 

Community partnerships don’t just expand reach but deepen impact, one young person at a time. The Barbara A. Douglas and Dr. William J. Powell Community Award is presented in partnership with Golf Digest, which will make donations to support the efforts of all three winning chapters. 

Vivian D’Orazi: From identifying my strengths to finding my calling

Vivian D’Orazi is an alumna of First Tee — Metropolitan New York and a First Tee Scholar. Now a senior and member of the golf team at York College of Pennsylvania, Vivian reflected on one of the most impactful experiences she had at First Tee:

At just 5 years old, I had no idea how much of an impact First Tee would have on my life. What started as weekly classes quickly turned into something so much more, a community that gave me a coach who feels like family, lifelong friends, and opportunities I never could’ve imagined. Today, I’m playing collegiate golf and pursuing a degree in marketing, all thanks to the foundation First Tee helped me build.

One of the most impactful experiences I’ve had through First Tee was participating in a five-week Leadership Series with PGA Tour Superstore. During this program, which takes place at PGA TOUR Superstore locations across the country, I took a deep dive into who I am, identifying my personal strengths, values, and the direction I wanted to take in life.

As part of the series, we were challenged to explore careers that aligned with our individual strengths and values. I discovered that my top strengths include achiever, arranger, relator, restorative, and belief. My values, integrity, family, teamwork, and helping others, also became clear.

At first, I wasn’t sure how those qualities could translate into a career. But after doing some research and reflection, I realized that marketing might be a good fit. From there, I began exploring the many paths within marketing, and that’s when I found something that truly sparked my interest, event marketing. The idea of creating meaningful experiences for others, moments they’ll remember and enjoy, resonated with me deeply.

I’ve made so many core memories at sporting events as a kid, laughing and cheering with my family and friends. Now, I want to help create those same experiences for other people. That’s where my strengths and values really come to life, through collaboration, creativity, and a desire to bring joy to others.

Leadership Series opened a door I didn’t even know existed. It’s what led me to major in marketing in college, and now, in my senior year, I feel more confident than ever in the path I’m on.

At the end of the five-week series, I was honored to be selected for the First Tee Leadership Summit in partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore in Montana, an experience that took everything to the next level. I rode a horse for the first time, went white water rafting, and took in some of the most breathtaking views I’ve ever seen. But more than that, I stepped outside of my comfort zone in ways I never expected. I took on new challenges, embraced different ways of thinking, and began to view leadership through a broader, more empowering lens.

Being surrounded by other motivated, passionate First Tee participants in such a beautiful place helped me grow not just as a leader, but as a person. It gave me the confidence to use my voice, trust in my abilities, and believe in the power of staying true to my values.

Looking back, I’m incredibly grateful for how far I’ve come, and even more thankful for the experiences and people who helped me get here. From taking my first swing with First Tee to now preparing to graduate college with a clear vision for the future, I wouldn’t trade a minute of the journey.

Support First Tee and its life-changing programs by becoming an Ambassador today!

Thank You, Adam Rowen!

As we have closed out the year, First Tee – Sandhills would like to formally recognize and thank Adam Rowen as he concludes his term on our Board of Directors, including his service as Board President through December 2025!

Adam’s leadership has played a meaningful role in the continued growth and strength of our chapter. Throughout his time on the board, he brought a thoughtful, strategic approach paired with a genuine commitment to First Tee’s mission of developing young people through character-building experiences on and off the golf course.

As Board President, Adam helped guide the organization through important moments of progress and planning, always keeping our long-term vision and the impact on our participants at the forefront. His steady leadership, collaborative mindset, and dedication to service have helped position First Tee – Sandhills for continued success.

We are grateful for the time, expertise, and care Adam has given to our organization. His contributions will have a lasting impact on our programs, our community partnerships, and the thousands of young people we serve across the Sandhills.

Thank you, Adam, for your leadership and commitment to First Tee – Sandhills. We wish you continued success in all that’s ahead! 

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. 

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.