First Tee enables kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges. By seamlessly integrating the game of golf with life skills curriculum, we create learning experiences that build inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience that kids carry to everything they do.
First Tee began in 1997 as a partnership among the LPGA, the Masters Tournament, the PGA of America, the PGA TOUR, and the USGA to make golf affordable and accessible for all kids. As we introduced the game, we also introduced a life skills curriculum that supported the development of Nine Core Values inherently found within the game of golf (honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, courtesy and judgment). This was a game changer – for the kids, and for our organization. Now, for over two decades we’ve been committed to helping kids build character strengths and important life skills through the game and providing all kids with access to opportunities for personal growth in a fun and safe environment. While we began on golf courses, we expanded by bringing our program to physical education classes across the country through our in-school and after-school programs.