Each summer The Tin Whistles together with the First Tee of the Sandhills conduct a golf tour for players 17 and under. The mission of the Tour is to help young players realize their potential in competitive tournaments within a learning environment while enjoying the game, practicing the core values of The First Tee, and developing respect for the game as exemplified by the Tin Whistles. The goal is to prepare players for high school and college competition. Experienced players will play 18 holes per day. The more skilled players will play from either the blue and white tees and adhere to the USGA Rules of Golf. Lesser skilled players will play from the forward tees with slightly modified rules to promote speed of play and a learning environment. These players will not be allowed caddies or coaches but may use pull carts. New and younger players, generally 12 and under, will play 9 holes per day and are encouraged to have a caddie/coach. The players will either play from the course’s forward tees or a special set of shorter tees. Players and caddies will be transported from green to tees by Tin Whistle members who will provide instruction and encouragement as needed. All events will be conducted by Tin Whistles members who will be the tournament officials. They will marshal the field to keep a reasonable pace of play, act as rules officials, hydrate the players, answer any questions and handle any needs that may arise. Relatives and friends are welcome to attend and cheer on players, but will be restricted to the cart paths and may not coach players. If you have any questions about the tour or the ability of a player to compete please send us an email. We are eager to assist your junior golfer to participate in what will be a very positive experience.