Category: Blog

In the midst of the crime and violence, there is a safe haven for youth. First Tee Monterey County, which is located in the most distressed neighborhood of East Salinas, keeps a high percentage of the city’s vulnerable youth safe by providing supervised, healthy activities that help strengthen their resilience to the gang influence and violence. And youth like 17-year-old Robert Aguayo are finding success in school and at home, and learning golf along the way. “The community I live in is plagued with gang violence,” said Robert, a participant with First Tee Monterey County. “I am thankful I have had First Tee Monterey County as a safe haven. I have had many friends give in to temptation of the streets, but with the guidance of my family, First Tee staff, my mentors and following the Core Values, I am on the right path to having a successful future.” To see the full story CLICK HERE

By Danny Ordaz Salinas, California, February 27, 2019 – Last Sunday almost 40 current participants and alumni of The First Tee of Monterey County enjoyed an experience of a lifetime attending the award-winning Broadway musical Hamilton performed at the SHN Orpheum Theater in San Francisco as guest recipients of Champion Charities. Champion Charities, a Palo Alto-based non-profit organization with a mission to help children and families in need, founded by Harris Barton and Ronnie Lott, has raised over $20,000,000 for local charities since 2004. This year, Champion Charities partnered with The First Tee of Monterey County, The First Tee of San Francisco, and the Nantz National Alzheimer Center to raise funds and give youth the opportunity to attend this magnificent event. Participants enjoyed entertainment, delicious dishes, and dressed appropriately for the high-class event. Kimberly T., active teen participant of The First Tee of Monterey County, enjoyed one of many interactive activities having her hair done in revolutionary-era style, “It was fun and everyone was so kind. They made us feel very special.” During the reception, participants rubbed shoulders with CEOs, partners in high-tech firms, large investment banks, top law firms as well as many 49er alumni, “I am so proud of the youth we serve. It is not only the 40 at this event that will benefit from this generous partnership, but the thousands of other children who attend the Life Skills experience daily programming at both chapters,” said Nick Nelson, Executive Director of The First Tee of Monterey County. “Attending this event would not have been possible without Harris Barton’s personal support,” Bill Shelton, CEO, Future Citizens Foundation.  

Poppy Ridge Golf Course – Chardonnay & Zinfandel courses

Wednesday, July 25th – Shotgun start 1:00 pm Check-in 11:30 am Putting Contest: 12:00 pm Team photos 12:30 pm (Girls – Gold Tees/ Boys – White Tees)

Participating Chapters:

1. Central Valley 2. Contra Costa Coach 3. Greater Sacramento 4. San Joaquin 5. Tri-Valley 6. San Francisco 7. Silicon Valley 8. Monterey County   Every year the NorCal chapters organize an inter-chapter tournament call The First Tee NorCal Cup. This year it is being held at Poppy Ridge G.C. on Wednesday July 25th. It ends up being an all-day event and consists of playing 18-holes and Life Skills testing. Last year we won 1st place the event! Our defending team this year consist of: • Jose Calderon • Isaac Flores • Onofre Badillo • Yamilet Castro • Tara Birgani • Nicole Iniakov

Name                             Net               Gross
Jose Calderon                    68                 71
Isaac Flores                     92                 106
Onofre Badillo                   85                 112
Yamilet Castro                   136                148
Tara Birgani                     75                 93
Nicole Inivakov                  76                 83

This year, we won sixth place as a team. Jose shot a 71 for Gross and won lowest net with a 68!