Our Program
At The First Tee, we empower youth to set ambitious goals and apply effective techniques for achieving them, using golf as a dynamic tool for character development. Golf mirrors life's ups and downs, making it an ideal medium for teaching resilience and integrity to young players. Our program, crafted by experts in positive youth development, is brought to life by coaches certified through The First Tee Coach Program. We're committed to equipping children and teenagers from all backgrounds for success, whether at school, home, or within their communities. Across our 1,000+ locations, we ensure accessibility through scholarships and reduced-fee options, guaranteeing that financial constraints never hinder participation.
Join us in fostering the next generation of leaders through the game of golf.
Is Golf the Right Sport for Your Child? Top 10 Questions Answered
February 16, 2016 | By Chace Breitmoser
Categories: Summer Camps, The First Tee Nine Core Values
“Golf is expensive.”
“Golf is boring.”
“Golf is slow.”
“Golf is hard to learn.”
How many times have you heard these misconceptions about golf? You may have even thought them yourself. At The First Tee, golf is more than a game. And it’s a fun activity that can last your child a lifetime. Here are 10 things you need to know about not only the game itself but how The First Tee does golf!
1. Who can play?
Anyone! The First Tee chapters welcome youth of all backgrounds and abilities ages 7–17. All we ask is that they come with an open mind and positive attitude, and we’ll provide the rest.
2. Financial concerns?
No worries—most chapters offer full scholarships or reduced sessions.
3. What about golf equipment?
We have that, too. Most chapters provide golf clubs, balls and tees.
4. What to wear?
You can wear tennis shoes, shorts, or skirts—no need for special golf attire.
5. Where do I join?
We’re closer than you think. The First Tee chapters offer programs at more than 1,200 locations across the country.
6. Are your coaches qualified?
Definitely! We have more than 2,900 active coaches who have gone through extensive training provided by The First Tee’s certified national trainers.
7. What about girls golf?
Golf isn’t a boy’s club at The First Tee. Many chapters offer the LPGA*USGA Girls Golf Program.
8. Is it fun?
Absolutely. The First Tee lessons are activity-based and full of fun and energy! We modify traditional sports that kids might be more familiar with—such as baseball, football, bowling and tennis—to incorporate the four basic golf shots: putt, chip, pitch and full swing.
9. What else?
A lot! Remember that in addition to learning the lifelong game of golf, kids are making friends, learning communication skills, how to set goals and other life skills that will help them on and off the golf course.
10. Is there a fun fact?
Did you know our chief executive officer, Joe Louis Barrow, Jr., is the son of former heavyweight boxing champion Joe Louis? When Joe Louis wasn’t in the boxing ring, he was often on the golf course.
