Why Golf?

Experiences are our greatest teacher. First Tee believes in developing the ones that are just as fun as they are meaningful, where kids feel excited to grow, safe to fail, and better equipped for whatever comes their way next. Through our personal growth and junior golf programs, we see kids’ build self confidence, inspiring more active participation in leadership opportunities and events, community involvement, and college scholarships.

National Opportunities

First Tee doesn’t just get kids on the course, it offers them exciting opportunities for growth. With the help of our corporate partners, we host a series of events for our participants, allowing them to meet new people, play some golf,  and achieve greatness. Descriptions and selected individuals are listed in the dropdown boxes below.

Ask your Chapter about applying for any of the following opportunities.

First Tee College Scholarship Program
The Scholar Program is designed to provide further support, life skill development and mentorship of our alumni through their journey. Higher education continues to be a critical factor in unlocking opportunities for young people to thrive, and First Tee is committed to their success

First Tee National Championship
June 21-25, 2026 in Chapel Hill, NC
The First Tee National Championship will be held at University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, bringing together First Tee’s elite players for an opportunity to showcase how the program has helped build the strength of character needed to play at the collegiate or next level.

First Tee Game Changers Academy Honoring Joe Louis Barrow, Jr.
July 18-22, 2026 in Minneapolis, MN
First Tee Game Changers Academy is a transformative five-day learning and empowerment experience. Selected teens from across the U.S. will engage in meaningful discussions on self-awareness, inclusive leadership, and community building – skills they will carry with them throughout their lives.

PURE Insurance Championship Impacting First Tee
September 15-20, 2026 in Pebble Beach, CA
An official PGA TOUR Champions event at Pebble Beach Golf Links, the tournament pairs top participants from First Tee with a PGA TOUR Champions player and amateurs. To be selected, juniors are measured in both golf ability and their knowledge of the First Tee life skills curriculum. The tournament is televised on Golf Channel.

First Tee Drive Your Future Academy presented by John Deere
October 8-12, 2026 in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL
This all-girls event focuses on leadership development, remaining active in the game of golf, learning the value/impact of volunteerism, and recognizing the importance of teamwork.

First Tee Innovators Forum
November 15-19, 2026 in Amelia Island, FL
First Tee Innovators Forum equips and empowers First Tee teens to develop a meaningful service project in their communities focused on education, health, human rights, or environmental sustainability.