Uncategorized Archives - First Tee

First Tee Joins National Alliance to Get More Kids Playing Sports

First Tee partners with PGA of America and Youth on Course to support Project Play’s 63×30 initiative

First Tee has joined the PGA of America and Youth on Course in a groundbreaking alliance to support Project Play’s 63×30 initiative, a national movement to increase youth sports participation to 63% by 2030.

The collaboration addresses a concerning trend: only 55% of children ages 6-17 in the U.S. currently play organized sports, down from 58% in 2017. The three organizations will work together to elevate youth sports participation through golf by removing barriers that prevent access to the game and promoting quality sports experiences for all young people.

“While First Tee’s mission is to help young people build character through golf, development of the game of golf has always been an important byproduct of our work,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of First Tee. “Aspen Institute’s Project Play is engaging an array of organizations involved in youth sports to work together. First Tee is proud to come alongside PGA of America and Youth on Course to support this initiative.”

Why Youth Sports Matter

Research shows that achieving 63% participation could deliver more than 1.8 million Quality Years of Life and generate $80 billion in societal benefits through reduced medical costs and increased worker productivity. Beyond the numbers, sports participation helps young people develop physical health, social-emotional skills, character strengths, and a sense of belonging.

“The benefits of youth playing sports are immense, for their own development, and our society as a whole,” said Adam Heieck, CEO of Youth on Course. “We have a collective responsibility in golf, to ensure our sport is accessible for any kid who wants to play, and that’s what this collaboration is about.”

A Framework for Quality Youth Sports

As part of this commitment, First Tee has endorsed the Children’s Bill of Rights in Sports, joining more than 500 organizations in supporting standards for youth sports that include safe environments, qualified coaches, and developmentally appropriate activities. This framework aligns with First Tee’s commitment to positive youth development and reinforces the organization’s focus on creating quality experiences for young people.

“Golf is showing what it means to be a team sport,” said Tom Farrey, executive director of the Aspen Institute’s Sports & Society program. “Leading organizations are working together in service of youth, creating a common language and set of aligned activities that holds the key to getting and keeping more kids in the game.”

What This Means Locally

As a First Tee chapter, First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin is proud to be part of this national effort. The partnership validates the work our organization does every day throughout the region to make golf accessible and use it as a vehicle for positive youth development.

The collaboration positions First Tee as part of a larger movement and may create new opportunities for partnerships with schools, community organizations, and funders who share the goal of increasing quality youth sports participation.

About Project Play

Project Play is the flagship initiative of the Aspen Institute’s Sports & Society Program. Since 2017, it has engaged a cross-sector roundtable of leading organizations committed to getting and keeping children active through sports. Through research and community engagement, Project Play provides tools and resources so every child in America can access quality sports opportunities.

The 63×30 initiative takes its name from the national public health goal established by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to achieve 63% youth sports participation by 2030.

Read the full press release here

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.

How the stages of youth development inform golf instruction at First Tee

You can play for a lifetime and never master golf. It’s what keeps many players coming back to the game: the search for the perfect drive, pitch, chip or putt.

While golfers of all age will attest that there’s always room for improvement, young players can benefit from starting small and learning the sport in ways that are appropriate for their age and stage of development, helping them build confidence and setting them up for success in the long run.

Featuring fun games, colorful landscapes and nontraditional equipment, this might mean a First Tee class will look different from a typical golf lesson, especially for younger players. But they’re designed to teach golf fundamentals, keep kids engaged and teach valuable life lessons that can be applied off the course.

“At First Tee, we believe that meaningful learning happens when instruction aligns with a child’s developmental stage,” said Kristin Westberg, senior director of training and evaluation. “The shift to age-based learning in our curriculum wasn’t just a structural update; it was a strategic decision rooted in research and our commitment to youth development.”

“By meeting kids where they are cognitively, socially and emotionally, we’re not only teaching golf more effectively, but we are also helping young people build confidence, character and resilience that lasts far beyond the course,” Westberg said.

Here’s how the stages of youth development inform our programs:

Age 7-9

As the parents of our youngest participants know, there may be moments in these classes where kids aren’t holding golf clubs but practicing more familiar skills that can eventually translate to the course. For example, rolling a ball can help teach kids about distance control on the green, while playing catch can help improve hand-eye coordination.

At this age, kids are learning how to be friends, manage emotions and follow directions. That’s why First Tee coaches aim to keep kids moving, offer positive encouragement and provide clear instructions.

Age 10-11

During this stage, kids are often improving their fine motor skills and learning to stay on task. It’s also when the concept of “personal best” typically starts to resonate. When working with this age group, First Tee coaches refrain from comparing participants to one another, but rather compare a participant’s past and present performances.

Through games and activities, kids are learning more complex golf concepts, like pre- and post-shot routine and club selection, but most participants are still focused on having fun and making friends.

Age 12-13

Most participants in this age group have chosen golf as their sport, and they’ll typically start picking up new golf skills more quickly. Because this group is advancing rapidly, parents may see skill disparities develop among players, but First Tee coaches are trained to make classes fun and engaging for all skill levels.

While players in this age group have typically made serious strides in terms of distance response, target awareness, body balance and other golf fundamentals, they’re often facing more social challenges. This age group tends to be more conscious about what others think of them, which is why First Tee coaches are trained to encourage participation in all activities and cultivate strong and supportive relationships.

Age 14+

Compared to younger players, teens are typically seeking guidance, suggestions and alternatives instead of detailed instruction, and this is reflected in First Tee’s class format. Coaches aim to create opportunities for teens to use real-life problem-solving skills, make their own decisions and support their peers.

Many First Tee Chapters offer junior coaching opportunities for teens to work with younger players, giving them a taste of responsibility and an appreciation for volunteerism. Many chapters also offer competitive playing opportunities, junior advisory boards and other ways to keep teens engaged with the program.

In conjunction with sponsors, First Tee headquarters offers a variety of national participant opportunities for teens, including leadership events and golf tournaments, as well as the First Tee College Scholarship Program.

Learn more about First Tee’s Coach Philosophy.

Celebrating Our Champions: Volunteer of the Year & Teacher of the Year

At First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin, our mission comes to life through the people who show up for young people every day. In 2025, we are proud to recognize two individuals whose commitment, compassion, and leadership have made an extraordinary difference for our participants and our community.

Volunteer of the Year: Joe Wendels

For more than eight years, Joe Wendels has been a steady presence within First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin, and his impact on youth in Fond du Lac is both deep and inspiring.

Since 2018, Joe has volunteered consistently at our programming sites at Whispering Springs and Rolling Meadows Golf Courses, never missing a Wednesday session. His deep knowledge of the golf swing, paired with an easygoing sense of humor and approachable nature, creates an environment where participants feel comfortable learning, asking questions, and growing. Joe is a favorite among participants and a trusted mentor both on and off the course.

Joe’s dedication goes well beyond weekly programming. He exemplifies grassroots support for our mission by helping raise funds through his Sandbaggers Golf League. Through both his time and personal generosity, Joe helps ensure more young people have access to the game of golf and the life skills that come with it.

Joe Wendels embodies the spirit of the George H.W. Bush Volunteer of the Year Award, quietly leading by example, showing up year after year, and giving freely of his time, talent, and heart. We are proud to recognize Joe as our Volunteer of the Year and to honor his unwavering commitment to the youth we serve.

Teacher of the Year: Stephanie Nass

Stephanie Nass, Physical Education Teacher at Wilson Elementary School in Mequon, exemplifies how intentional teaching and meaningful partnerships can create lasting impact for young people.

Stephanie is in her fifth year delivering the First Tee School Program and her fifth year coaching with First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin. In addition to implementing the program during the school day, she has been a dedicated coach in our summer programming at Lake Park Golf Course since 2020. There, she assists with on-course instruction, facilitates life skills discussions, and serves as a familiar, supportive presence for participants. Stephanie has also volunteered at outreach events and our Tee to Green Golf Classic Pro-Am, further strengthening her connection to our chapter.

Stephanie is known for her creativity and commitment to inclusion. In her PE classes, she ensures that every student, regardless of ability or background, feels welcomed and valued. She brings First Tee lessons to life by focusing on fun, movement, and foundational life skills. From transforming the gym into a practice range to incorporating prizes at the end of each unit, Stephanie makes learning exciting while always leaving space for reflection and discussion that connects lessons to students’ real lives.

Stephanie has also played a critical role in strengthening the relationship between our chapter and local schools. After taking a new position at Wilson Elementary during the 2024–25 school year, her advocacy helped onboard Wilson as a new First Tee School Program partner. Previously, she led a strong program at Christ King and regularly promoted our chapter’s opportunities to students and families. Her enthusiasm, reliability, and leadership have helped expand our reach and deepen our impact across multiple communities.

We are proud to recognize Stephanie Nass as our Teacher of the Year and grateful for the passion, care, and excellence she brings to everything she does.

Building Confidence and Finding Community: Hayden’s First Tee Story

*Hayden is focused as he works on his putting during a session at Noyes Park Golf Course.*

(Dec. 17, 2025) – For Hayden, First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin is more than just learning how to golf. It’s a place where he’s grown in confidence, built meaningful friendships, and discovered a love for the game.

Hayden joined First Tee three years ago after his mom, Dana, found the program as a welcoming way for him to get outside, stay active, and learn a sport he could enjoy for the rest of his life. Since then, he’s enrolled year-round in every available session and has become a familiar face on the course.

What keeps Hayden coming back, Dana says, is the people.

“The coaches and staff are consistent,” she shared. “That’s helped him build real rapport, which isn’t always easy.”

One of those coaches is Coach Joey, who connected with Hayden from his very first session. After a stretch of being in different classes, Joey recognized Hayden at the Alternate Shot Challenge and greeted him with a big smile, a small moment that made a big impact. For Hayden, being remembered and encouraged helped build confidence and a sense of belonging.

That connection grew even stronger when Hayden and Joey discovered they share interests in technology and robotics, Hayden’s favorite subjects. Joey, a software engineer by profession, has helped Hayden feel supported not only as a golfer, but as a curious learner off the course as well.

“I feel like I play a lot better now,” Hayden said. “I’m really starting to hit it pretty well.”

That confidence has encouraged him to try new experiences, including events like the Alternate Shot Challenge and Drive, Chip & Putt, opportunities Dana says he likely wouldn’t have pursued without the encouragement and foundation from First Tee.

*Hayden and Javier building skills and friendship at the driving range.*

The program has also helped Hayden strengthen friendships. After he encouraged his close friend Javier to join, the two now play together at Noyes Park Golf Course. Golf has become their shared activity and something that gets them off screens, outdoors, and spending time with peers and supportive adults.

“Having that time with Javier to do something they both enjoy that’s not video games or something like that has been really important,” Dana said. “Building that tighter friendship through a sport has been great for both of them.”

Beyond golf, Hayden is taking what he’s learned into everyday life, as Dana has seen growth in his patience and focus. “He’s learned that taking your time to hit a good shot works better than rushing,” she explained. “That’s carried over to home and school.”

When asked what he enjoys most about First Tee, Hayden didn’t hesitate.

“I have a really good time,” he said.

At First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin, young people are learning life lessons, finding mentors, building friendships, and gaining confidence that will shape their futures. Thank you for being part of the First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin community that make stories like Hayden’s possible.

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.

Chipping In – Fall 2025

Chipping In, our donor and supporter newsletter, highlights the ways your contributions are making a difference in the lives of kids through the game of golf.

Contents:

Robert’s Story: from learning to leading
Neighborhood House of Milwaukee
Board Member Spotlight: Katie Falk
Fellowship Youth Clinic
Children’s Wisconsin
Parent Q&A
New Family Clinics

Read Chipping In

Complete the Course: Join Our Game Changers Circle This Giving Tuesday

This Giving Tuesday, December 2, we’re inviting you to make a commitment that goes beyond a single gift. We’re asking you to join our Game Changers Circle and become part of something sustainable, something consistent, something that changes lives for the long term.

Our Goal: 18 for ’25

We’ve set an ambitious goal for Giving Tuesday: add 18 new members to our Game Changers Circle monthly giving club. Why 18? Because like a round of golf, every hole matters. Each monthly donor represents consistent support that helps us build character in the next generation of young people across Southeast Wisconsin.

Throughout December 2, we’ll be tracking our progress as we work to “complete the course.” You can follow along on our social media channels as we update our scorecard throughout the day, celebrating each new Game Changer who joins our mission.

Why Monthly Giving Matters

Monthly giving provides something invaluable to nonprofit organizations like ours: the ability to plan with confidence. When you commit to a monthly gift, you give us the reliable foundation that allows us to offer scholarships, expand programs, and focus on serving kids instead of constantly worrying about funding gaps.

Game Changers Circle gifts start at just $10 a month. That’s less than two cups of coffee, but the impact compounds throughout the year. Your consistent support means we can say yes to opportunities, invest in trained coaches, and ensure that every young person who wants to participate can access our life-changing programs.

What is the Game Changers Circle?

The Game Changers Circle is a group of visionaries who play a critical role in the growth of First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin with the next generation in mind. The Game Changers Circle fund provides a sustainable resource that gives our organization an opportunity to look past today and dream big for tomorrow.

Your support helps launch and grow exciting scholarship, access, and program opportunities, inspiring our young people today for a brighter future tomorrow.

As a Game Changers Circle member, you become part of a community of people who believe in the power of character education. You’ll receive:

A special welcome gift
Invitations to appreciation events
Regular updates on the kids you’re impacting
The knowledge that you’re making a lasting difference

It’s Easy to Join

Joining the Game Changers Circle is simple:

Choose your amount. Monthly gifts start at just $10. Select the level that works for your budget. Every amount makes a difference.
One-time sign-up. Set up your monthly gift in less than two minutes. It’s an automatic deduction from your credit card each month.
Make lasting impact. Your gift processes automatically, providing reliable support that helps us plan confidently and serve more kids.

And here’s the important part: you can pause, adjust, or cancel your monthly gift at any time. There are no questions asked and no penalties. We understand circumstances change.

Why This Matters

For more than 20 years, First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin has been passionate about providing opportunities that enable kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges. By seamlessly integrating the game of golf with a life skills curriculum, we create active learning experiences that build inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience that kids can carry to everything they do.

But we can only do this work with sustained support from people who believe in our mission. Monthly donors provide the foundation that allows us to focus on what matters most: teaching integrity, respect, confidence, responsibility, and perseverance to young people across our community.

Join Us on December 2

This Giving Tuesday, we’re not asking for the biggest gift. We’re asking for the most meaningful one. A commitment to show up month after month, to invest consistently in character development, to be part of a community that believes in the power of the next generation.

Will you be one of our eighteen Game Changers?

Join the Game Changers Circle

Not ready for monthly giving? You can still support our mission with a one-time gift on Giving Tuesday or any day of the year. Every contribution helps us serve more kids and build more character.

Follow along on December 2 as we track our progress throughout the day. We’ll be updating our scorecard on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X as we work to complete the course.

Let’s make this Giving Tuesday count. Together, we can build a foundation of support that changes lives for years to come.

Questions about the Game Changers Circle or monthly giving? Contact David Cohn, Chief Executive Officer, at [email protected] or 414-443-3575.

First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin Holiday Auction is Now Live!

We’re excited to launch our new Holiday Auction, running through Sunday, November 23 at 8 p.m. Find meaningful gifts while supporting our mission of building game changers.

What’s Up for Bid? Browse an amazing collection of golf experiences at Wisconsin’s premier courses, unique collectibles, and special items that make perfect holiday gifts. Whether you’re shopping for the golf enthusiast in your life or looking for something truly unique, our auction has something special waiting for you.

Easy Online Bidding Getting started is simple. Create your account, browse the items, and place your bids. You’ll receive notifications if you’re outbid, so you never miss a chance to secure that perfect item.

Every Bid Makes a Difference Your participation helps us continue our mission of building character in young people throughout Southeast Wisconsin. Through golf and life skills education, we’re creating opportunities for kids to develop the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of challenges.

Ready to Start Bidding? Don’t wait – some of our most popular items tend to generate early interest. Browse the full collection here and start bidding today!

Questions? Contact us at [email protected]

Bid Now

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.

Robert’s Story: Learning, Leading, and Giving Back

(Oct. 21, 2025) – Robert started with First Tee — Southeast Wisconsin when he was 11 years old, curious about golf and eager to try something new. What began as an introduction to the game quickly became an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.

“We got Robert involved, and he liked it, and then he started to love it,” his mom, Paige, shared. “We started to see a difference with him and his attitude, how he was cooperating with people, and how he was just showing more responsibility.”

Now 16, Robert continues to grow through First Tee as both a participant and a junior coach. This past summer, he helped lead sessions in partnership with Neighborhood House of Milwaukee, working closely with younger participants and supporting them as they learned both golf skills and life skills.

As a junior coach, Robert has become a positive role model. He’s known for setting an example with patience, showing responsibility, and creating a fun, welcoming environment on the course. His experience has come full circle as he now shares the same lessons that once shaped him.

Paige has seen that growth extend beyond the course. “We started with low confidence, not a lot of initiative, and now Robert is super passionate about everything that he does and about helping others,” she said. “That’s what is most important for us.”

When asked what he values most about his time with First Tee, Robert didn’t hesitate. His answer was simple: community.

Robert’s story reflects the power of connection, mentorship, and the lasting impact that happens when young people are supported both on and off the course.

MPS Girls City Conference Championship Held at Noyes Park Golf Course

*Teams from across MPS gather at Noyes Park Golf Course ahead of the championship round.*

(Oct. 12, 2025) – The MPS Girls City Conference Championship was held last week at Noyes Park, bringing together teams from Riverside, Golda Meir, Rufus King, Vincent, Ronald Reagan, and South Division for a full day of competition and recognition.

This year’s championship adopted a formal 9-hole format to provide players with ample time for warm-up, on-course play, and participation in skills contests. The schedule included range time, putting and long drive competitions, and an awards ceremony to close the event.

*A Golda Meir golfer lines up her putt on the 7th hole at Noyes Park Golf Course.*

Awards were presented for team and individual performances, including top overall finishers and hole-specific contests such as longest putt and closest to the pin.

Throughout the event, players demonstrated competitive focus, sportsmanship, and enthusiasm, reflecting the continued growth of girls golf within Milwaukee Public Schools.

Thank you to Milwaukee Public Schools and the City Conference for their partnership and commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for student-athletes across the district.

Category: Uncategorized