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!
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!
PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL (Oct. 6, 2025) – In celebration of National Coaches Day, national youth development organization First Tee is proud to announce the launch of a new video series spotlighting the heart of its program: its coaches.
Titled “Coaching the First Tee Way,” the series offers an inside look at how First Tee coaches across the country create safe, supportive and empowering environments where young people can grow on and off the golf course. The series features real stories, footage and conversations with coaches and parents, highlighting how First Tee’s unique approach goes beyond the game.
“At First Tee, we believe a coach is more than a teacher; they’re a mentor, role model and positive force in a young person’s life,” said Ryan Graff, vice president of programs at First Tee. “This video series honors the thousands of coaches who bring our mission to life every day and showcases the power of intentional coaching.”
Every First Tee class is active, social and fun because kids learn best when they’re engaged and supported. Our multilevel training program ensures that coaches are prepared to bring this philosophy to life through four core building blocks: activity based, empowering youth, continuous learning and mastery driven. This holistic approach doesn’t just make kids better golfers, it helps them thrive in school, at home and in life. The series is designed to inspire current and future coaches, while offering insights into how First Tee integrates life skills and values into every coaching moment.
Research from First Tee and The Harris Poll shows that coaches leave a lasting impact that can extend into adulthood. More than 90% of parents with grown children say they’ve seen firsthand how youth sports can shape a child’s future.
The first installment of “Coaching the First Tee Way” is available now on Instagramand firsttee.org, with additional episodes rolling out weekly through October.
The annual event convenes teen leaders from across the country to build community impact projects
PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. (Oct. 3, 2025) – Youth development organization First Tee is proud to announce the return of its Innovators Forum, an annual workshop that equips and empowers teens from across the country to develop a meaningful service project to implement in their community.
Held from Oct. 2-5 in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, home of the PGA TOUR, the 2025 First Tee Innovators Forum will bring together a select group of exceptional teen participants selected for their dedication to community service, leadership potential and innovative spirit.
The event provides an immersive experience, where teens will hear case studies from organizations like CapTech and Constellation, focusing on how they have used innovation to drive impact. Ultimately, teens will design and pitch service projects that address real challenges in their communities.
“Innovators Forum exemplifies what First Tee is all about: empowering the next generation to be changemakers on and off the course,” said Jennifer Weiler, senior vice president of network relations at First Tee. “These young leaders are not only passionate about golf but also about making a difference, and this event helps give them the tools to do it.”
Past forums have resulted in impactful projects ranging from environmental sustainability initiatives to mental health awareness campaigns and inclusive golf programs for underserved populations. Teens who execute the most impactful projects have the opportunity to earn stipends, with more than $25,000 awarded in 2024 to support their educational endeavors after high school.
In addition to including presentations from leaders in sports, business and social innovation, this year’s Innovators Forum will include an afternoon spent at Constellation Furyk & Friends, where participants will get to see legendary golfers and experience the natural beauty of Timuquana Country Club.
Derek Lee of First Tee – Oakland understands the power of service. “For the past two years, I have volunteered as a junior coach and have helped elementary and middle school age kids discover the game of golf,” he said. “I want to be a positive role model and mentor for them, just as others were for me when I was their age.”
Now a high school junior, Derek joined the chapter as a participant when he was 7 years old, but it closed a couple years later. He took a break from golf until the COVID-19 pandemic made it one of the few activities available to kids. Then when First Tee – Oakland relaunched in 2023, Derek eagerly rejoined as a junior coach.
“Knowing I am helping to spark their interest in something that I myself love and am passionate about is incredibly rewarding,” he said. “It reminds me how impactful volunteering can be, and it motivates me to keep giving back to my community.”
Derek’s passion for helping others is a big part of the reason he’ll be the first participant from the re-opened First Tee – Oakland chapter to attenda national participant event. He’s heading across the country to Jacksonville, Florida, to take part in Innovators Forum this week.
At Innovators Forum, each participant develops a plan for a community service project they execute when they return home. Derek aspires to create expanded program offerings for First Tee – Oakland to ensure that younger kids remain engaged with the chapter and see their golf and life skills grow.
During Innovators Forum, Derek and his cohort will hear case studies from leaders at organizations like CapTech and Constellation, and they’ll attend Constellation FURYK & FRIENDS to see legendary golfers like Ernie Els and Vijay Singh.
When he’s back in Oakland, Derek aspires to take his own golf game to new heights. Already a plus-handicap player, he has big goals: “I strive to play in the most challenging tournaments I can, so I can show myself and coaches that I have the skills and can go toe-to-toe with some of the best junior golfers in the world,” he said. Ultimately, he aims to play collegiate golf at a top academic school.
Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Lou Giordano grew up immersed in sports. Baseball was his first love, carrying him through high school and beyond. To this day, he remains a loyal Cleveland Guardians fan, a testament to his lifelong passion for athletics and teamwork! Lou dedicated 25 years to the U.S. Navy as a Supply Corps officer, a career defined by leadership, discipline, and service. After retiring from active duty, he transitioned seamlessly into education, serving as a senior instructor with the Navy Junior ROTC program at Princess Anne High School in Virginia Beach. Teaching, mentoring, and shaping young leaders became a natural extension of his military career.
Finding a Home in Pinehurst
When retirement arrived, Lou and his wife chose Pinehurst as their next chapter, moving closer to their daughter in Raleigh and into the heart of a community known for its golf legacy. Interestingly, golf didn’t become part of Lou’s life until he turned 39, but once it did, he developed a deep respect for the game, embracing both its challenges and the invaluable life lessons it offers.
Discovering First Tee – Sandhills
Looking for ways to stay active, engaged, and connected with young people, Lou found First Tee – Sandhills. Coaching quickly became a natural fit. “First Tee reminds me of NJROTC in so many ways,” Lou reflects. “While NJROTC builds good citizens and leaders through structure and activities, First Tee teaches kids values through the game of golf. Both are about character development at their core.”
Continuing a Legacy of Mentorship
From his years in the Navy to his time in the classroom, and now on the golf course, Lou has dedicated his life to building up the next generation. Through his work with First Tee – Sandhills, he continues to live that mission of blending his love of golf with his passion for mentorship. We are incredibly grateful to have Lou as part of our First Tee family, and for the example he sets for both our participants and fellow volunteers. His journey is a reminder that no matter where life leads, there is always an opportunity to inspire, teach, and give back.
Growing up in Walla Walla, Washington, golf was never just a pastime for James, it was a pursuit of greatness. His love for the game was first sparked by watching Jack Nicklaus’s legendary win at the 1986 Masters, a moment that ignited a lifelong passion. As a junior golfer, he admired Freddie Couples, a hometown legend who held every junior record in the region. For James and countless others, Couples set the bar for what was possible, inspiring a generation of young players to chase excellence on and off the course.
A Career Shaped by Serendipity
While working in golf wasn’t part of his original plan, the game became a natural path, one he’s proud to walk each day through his role at Golf Pride and his community involvement. A career opportunity eventually brought him to Pinehurst, a call from Golf Pride that he describes as pure serendipity. “One thing led to another, and here I am, grateful to be part of this incredible golf community,” he reflects.
Discovering First Tee
That same spirit of gratitude and connection soon led him to First Tee – Sandhills. “Shortly after arriving in Pinehurst, I found myself drawn to the mission of First Tee. It didn’t take long before I was pulled in and actively involved,” he shares. When asked what motivated him to serve on the Board of Directors, James points to a clear purpose: “My passion lies in expanding access to golf and the life benefits it provides. At Golf Pride, we’re excited about creating opportunities for kids who may never imagine themselves playing somewhere like Pinehurst. Being part of First Tee allows me to help make that dream a reality!”
A Moment to Remember
One moment that continues to stand out for him came while coaching a joint session with First Tee and the Boys & Girls Club at Legacy Golf Links. “When the bus arrived, the kids poured out, full of energy. Several of them instinctively stopped, dropped, and rolled around on the grass, exclaiming, ‘It’s like carpet!’ They had never seen anything like it. Their joy was contagious. That day reminded me what First Tee is all about…introducing kids to the game, nurturing their wonder, and teaching them to respect the course and each other.”
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.
Many First Tee participants work for years to earn a spot in the PURE Insurance Championship, a PGA TOUR Champions event that pairs golf legends and business leaders with First Tee juniors for a week of competition and mentorship at Pebble Beach Golf Links.
First Tee juniors are selected for the field based on their golf skills and their commitment to First Tee values. Two participants who excel in both areas are Malakai Jazayeri from First Tee – Phoenix and Ashton Washington from First Tee – Tampa Bay.
Malakai is a senior from Gilbert, Arizona, with aspirations to play collegiate golf and experience new cultures after graduation. He’s been involved with First Tee – Phoenix for a decade, and he was named the chapter’s 2024 Player of the Year. He also works at Goodwill.
Ashton will not only graduate from high school this spring, but he’ll also earn his associate’s degree in business administration. He aspires to play professional golf and work in real estate development. He’s a member of National Honor Society and he volunteers with organizations that address food insecurity in his community.
On Thursday, PURE Insurance Championship executives surprised Malakai and Ashton with invitations to join the First Tee College Scholarship Program.
The First Tee College Scholarship Program is building game changers
Launched in 2020, the First Tee College Scholarship Program provides selected alumni with financial support, mentorship and professional development opportunities to help them succeed in college and beyond.
Since its inception, more than 125 First Tee Scholars have benefited from this comprehensive support system, designed to prepare them for success both academically and personally.
PURE Insurance has been the title sponsor of the PURE Insurance Championship since 2017 and is a dedicated partner of the First Tee College Scholarship Program.
“I’m so proud to continue our involvement with, and support of, this incredible organization,” said Martin Leitch, CEO of PURE Insurance. “Golf skills aside, the young men and women of First Tee excel in the classroom, give their time to their communities and lead in their First Tee chapters, their schools and beyond. They’re going to shape the future — and PURE is proud to support them and help share their stories.”
As they prepare to take this next step, Malakai and Ashton join a network of motivated alumni who represent the values and skills learned through First Tee.
The First Tee National Alumni Advisory Council held its first in-person meeting in Charlotte
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Sept. 15, 2025) – First Tee has launched a National Alumni Advisory Council, a group of 20 dynamic alumni who are business and community leaders from across the United States. The council will play a key role in shaping the future of the organization’s growing Alumni Network.
The Alumni Council’s primary focus will be to guide and direct strategies that engage more alumni in meaningful ways — helping them stay connected to each other and to First Tee’s mission of empowering young people through golf and life skills programming.
In addition to virtual meetings, the Alumni Council will gather annually, with its first session having taken place Sept. 12-14 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The event is sponsored by Gallagher.
“First Tee alumni are an essential part of our story and our future,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “The Alumni Council will help ensure we are creating opportunities for them to continue to grow, give back and lead, while staying connected to the values they developed through First Tee.”
The Alumni Council is co-chaired by Rayshon Payton of First Tee – Metropolitan Oklahoma City, who works as general counsel for Delaware Sen. Lisa Blunt, and Sara Diaz of First Tee – San Antonio, a presenter for ESPN+ and PGA TOUR Live and vice president of recruiting for Capstone Hospitality.
“I’m thrilled to come full circle with First Tee, an organization that has shaped not only my life but the lives of so many others,” Payton said. “Serving as board chair of the Alumni Council is a special opportunity to give back, support the next generation and help strengthen a community that continues to inspire growth on and off the course.”
“I’m excited to continue being part of the First Tee, the program where my golf journey began,” Diaz said. “I’m truly honored to be selected as co-chair of the First Tee Alumni Council and look forward to expanding our Alumni Network to foster lasting connections and meaningful opportunities.”
Council members represent a diverse group of graduates who embody the impact of First Tee programs. They were appointed and will serve terms of two, three or four years. Together, they will guide efforts to recruit alumni, design impactful engagement opportunities and drive alumni reconnection to local chapters. As ambassadors of the program, they will inspire current participants and help grow a powerful, united Alumni Network.
The First Tee Alumni Network includes thousands of former participants who have carried the organization’s values into their careers, communities and lives. Since its launch in 2020, the First Tee Alumni Network has provided career assistance, professional and personal development opportunities and fun events for former participants. It’s free to join and open to all First Tee Alumni.
For more information about the Alumni Network, visit firsttee.org/alumni.
2025 Alumni Council members
Rayshon Payton
Metropolitan Oklahoma City
General Counsel, Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester
Sara Diaz
Greater San Antonio
VP of Recruiting, Capstone Hospitality
Anthony Bonales
Central Valley
Finance Manager, Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling
Grace Kehoe
Greater Charlotte
Media Logger, PGA TOUR
Karrington Knight
Greater New Orleans
Staff Assistant, Rep. Jasmine Crockett
Steven Outlaw, PGA
Hammond (Historical)
Director of Sales & Marketing, Troon
Colm Parrish
Pittsburgh
Category Manager, Catalent Pharma Solutions
Hannah Rens
Siouxland
Systems Engineer, Boeing
Benjamin Nganga
Tennessee
Real Estate Valuations Analyst, Baker Tilly
Ashley Noda
Greater Sacramento
Director of Outreach & Competitive Activities, First Tee – Greater Sacramento
Alyssa Ramont
Central Valley
Executive Administrative Assistant, San Francisco Giants
David Singh
Tampa Bay
Program Manager, Cleveland Clinic of Florida
Blake Christenson
Tennessee
Designer, Cooper Carry
Michelle Xie
Silicon Valley
Software Engineer, Dave
Mia Bishop
Metro Atlanta
Psychotherapist
Brittany Gill
Greater Richmond
Corporate Partnerships Manager, PGA TOUR
Derrick Ow
Monterey County
Communications & Customer Service Coordinator, Northern California Golf Association
Connor Shooks
Benton Harbor
Sports Management Student, University of Michigan
Callen Williams
Metropolitan New York
Assistant Program Director, First Tee – Metropolitan New York
Blake has called Pinehurst home his whole life, growing up surrounded by the game of golf. Some of his earliest memories are on the course with his dad, sparking a love for the game that has only deepened over time. In spring 2019, Blake attended his very first First Tee program at Beacon Ridge. Since then, he’s participated in countless programs, camps, and events that have shaped not only his skills on the course but also his growth as a person.
Lessons in Perseverance and Confidence
Through First Tee, Blake has discovered the power of perseverance and confidence, qualities that have helped him thrive as both a competitive golfer and a young leader. Today, he plays competitive golf year-round and gives back to the program that gave him so much by serving as a volunteer coach at First Tee – Sandhills. Blake’s love for golf has even inspired his family. His younger sister, now 10, has joined First Tee programs herself, and often enjoys playing alongside Blake and their dad. For them, golf is more than just a sport, it’s a family tradition!
Giving Back as a Coach
One of Blake’s favorite volunteer memories came during his second summer as a coach. He was welcomed back by kids who remembered his name and were excited to see him again, a moment that reminded him of the impact he was making.
“Seeing kids excited to learn at camp makes me want to keep coming back,” Blake shares. “Watching their growth is so rewarding, and I hope to provide the same fun and encouraging experience my coaches gave me.”
Full Circle
At First Tee – Sandhills, we’re proud to watch Blake’s journey come full circle from participant, to mentor. His story is a testament to the lasting impact of our programs and the power of giving back. We are grateful for his dedication, his passion, and his heart for inspiring the next generation of golfers. Thank you, Blake, for reminding us that the best game we can play is the one where we lift others up.
At First Tee – Sandhills, we’ve been fortunate to grow under the guidance of leaders who believed in our mission from the very beginning. One of those foundational figures is Bob Klug, a founding board member, mentor, and tireless advocate whose legacy continues to shape our chapter today.
A Founding Visionary
Bob’s journey with First Tee – Sandhills began in the early 2000s, when he helped establish our chapter. As a longtime Pinehurst resident and owner of Pinehurst Area Realty, Bob recognized how golf could be used to mentor young people and build character. With his background in accounting and years of experience in both business and golf, Bob brought wisdom, heart, and a clear vision for growth.
A Lifelong Love of the Game
Originally from Pennsylvania, Bob played competitive golf in school and carried that passion throughout his life. After moving south, he met his wife Barbara through work, and the two built a life both on and off the course. When Bob competed in the British Amateur, Barbara proudly served as his caddy, a partnership that has only deepened over the years. Today, they share the joy of seven grandchildren, their own cheering gallery in life.
Leading First Tee – Sandhills
As board president, Bob was instrumental in expanding First Tee’s reach across the Sandhills. He forged partnerships with local schools, raised vital funds, and led signature events like the “Bucket List” fundraiser. His leadership helped establish First Tee – Sandhills as a trusted pillar in the community, offering programs that build character and confidence in young people. Even now, in an emeritus role, Bob continues to support First Tee as a mentor, volunteer, and champion of our mission. When asked what stands out most from his experience, Bob is quick to answer. It’s this heart and commitment that make Bob such a special part of our First Tee family. His legacy lives on in every child who finds confidence, every teen who discovers purpose, and every family who feels the power of community through our programs.
“Seeing the growth through the programs, the people, and most importantly, the participants. We get to mentor and encourage them to be their best selves. That’s why I’m here.” – Bob Klug
