Category: Feature Stories

Finding balance: How First Tee is using technology to build character on and off the course 

One of the best things about playing golf is the chance to unplug – to step away from screens and into nature, where players can breathe in fresh air, socialize with peers and get some exercise. But as the sport’s popularity grows, many golf courses are operating at or near capacity. Add in factors like weather and transportation, and it becomes clear: green grass golf isn’t always within reach, especially for kids. 

That’s why meeting kids on their turf – in schools, online, and at community centers – has long been central to First Tee’s approach. It inspired the launch of the First Tee School Program and more recently, the First Tee app. While we believe time spent outdoors is time well spent, we also recognize that kids today need to build strong technology skills and learn how to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly. 

First Tee leaders Ben Jarvis, vice president of strategy and business enablement, and Ryan Graff, vice president of programs, regularly discuss both the opportunities and the challenges technology presents for young people, and for the adults supporting them. 

What parents should know about kids and apps 

“When evaluating apps for your child, start with privacy and data protection,” Ben said. Look for apps with clear, transparent policies that limit data collection. All of this information is available in the app store. 

To see if an app is age appropriate, Ben recommends reading reviews from trusted sources like Common Sense Media and checking whether it offers parental control options – many kids’ apps do. Parents can also research app developers to see if they have a strong track record and good reputation. 

Furthermore, there’s the matter of in-app purchase: “Check whether the app includes premium features that might lead to unexpected charges,” Ben said. 

Ultimately, determine whether new apps fit into your family’s screen time philosophy.  “Consider whether an app educates, inspires creativity, meaningful connection or develops skills rather than just capturing time and attention,” he said. “The First Tee app, for example, reinforces life skills and golf concepts through interactive activities.” 

Building digital skills – and character 

Technology skills are nonnegotiable, and today’s kids need more than just familiarity with devices. “Digital literacy is the ability to find, evaluate and analyze digital information critically, distinguishing between credible sources and misinformation,” Ben said. 

Exposing kids to technology in a healthy way can help ensure they understand how to protect personal information and navigate digital spaces safely. 

Equally important is helping kids develop healthy relationships with tech. “Families are searching for how to find a balance when it comes to technology,” Ryan said. “First Tee is impactful because it’s more than golf. Kids and teens learn valuable life skills to navigate the course but also other contexts such as school and extracurricular activities. We explore the values that are inherent to the sport, like honesty, good judgment and overcoming challenges – all of which are important in life and online.”  

In addition, First Tee provides opportunities to help kids build social skills with coaches and their peers within class, so attending First Tee classes can be a support in developing this balance. 

In a world filled with technology, there are lots of lessons we can learn from golf: 

  • Focus and presence: Golf provides a space with fewer external distractions and the opportunity to focus and be present with the golf shot before you – a rarity in a world full of notifications. 
  • Patience and delayed gratification: In an age of instant rewards, golf teaches that improvement comes through consistent effort over time.  
  • Good judgment: Golf’s emphasis on integrity – calling penalties on oneself, playing by the rules – builds the ethical foundation that guides responsible technology use.  
  • Face-to-face social skills: The in-person connections formed during golf provide interpersonal experiences that screens can’t replicate, building social confidence.  
  • Emotional regulation: Managing frustration after a bad shot by learning the 4Rs (Relax, Replay, Ready Redo) builds emotional resilience that helps children navigate online challenges.  
  • Strategic thinking: Golf can help build creative problem-solving abilities, like STAR (Stop, Think, Anticipate and Respond) that transfer to technological contexts.  
  • Physical activity and nature connection: The experience of being outdoors and moving provides essential balance to screen time, contributing to physical and mental health.  

According to data from First Tee and The Harris Poll, 85% of parents believe character is a “lost value” in society, and 93% agree that kids can learn life skills through sports. “Our coaches are trained not just in golf, but in youth development,” Ryan said. “That’s what makes the experience so impactful.” 

At First Tee, technology isn’t a replacement for these experiences; it’s an enhancement. As Ben puts it, “We’re preparing kids for a world full of digital tools. But more importantly, we’re helping them develop the character and confidence to use those tools with awareness, purpose and integrity.” 

Find a First Tee Chapter near you. 

College golf recruiting: Advice from 3 First Tee alumni

Now in its fifth year, the First Tee National Championship returns this week to the University of Notre Dame. It’s an opportunity for top players from across the country to showcase the skills they developed at their chapters.

All eight past champions are currently on college golf rosters, including First Tee – Green Valley Ranch alumnus Hunter Swanson, who plays at the University of Colorado, Boulder. While playing collegiate golf can be a rewarding experience, the process of getting there can be demanding.

First Tee – Greater Washington DC alumna Joey Nguyen is a member of the team at Drew University in Madison, New Jersey, where she was named Women’s Golfer of the Year by the Landmark Conference last season. First Tee – West Virginia alumnus Argyle Downes is a First Tee Scholar who’s heading into his sophomore season at Rutgers University.

As former First Tee National Championship competitors, we asked Joey, Argyle and Hunter about their journeys from First Tee to college golf.

When did you start thinking about college golf?

Joey started reaching out to coaches in 8th grade, sending introductory emails to get on their radar. She wasn’t sure which NCAA Division would be the right fit — but she knew it was important to get her name out as a potential recruit.

Meanwhile, Argyle got serious about college golf after his freshman year of high school, when his confidence caught up with his ambition. “I always had a goal but until that time I didn’t really have true self belief,” he said.

Key takeaway: While there’s not a specific recruiting timeline you need to follow, start early if you can, and know that belief in your own potential is just as important as raw skill. As you navigate the recruitment process, remember to set goals that are positive, specific and under your control.

How important are academics?

Both players emphasized the importance of grades in the recruiting process. “There are so many successful players that grades often become a deciding factor whether a player will be part of the team or not,” Argyle said, noting that the razor thin margin between recruits sometimes leaves coaches looking for reasons to leave a player off the roster.

Joey noted that grades and test scores are also critical for academically selective schools, opening doors that golf scores can’t.

Key takeaway: Strong academics can show good judgment, which is important to college golf coaches.

What’s your advice for connecting with coaches?

For Hunter, a busy competition schedule helped him get his name in front of coaches. “I played as many of the top junior golf tournaments as I could, not only to play against the best junior golfers, but knowing that college golf coaches would be watching the scores,” Hunter said.

When it comes to outreach, Joey used a combination of emails, phone calls and texts to build relationships with coaches. Hunter said social media is also an important recruitment tool.

When you do exchange messages with coaches, it’s important they come from players, not parents. Joey recommends starting with a concise intro email that includes:

  • Name, school and grad year
  • Tournament schedule
  • Key stats and highlights

Once the conversation starts, it’s important to send updates, results and anything else that keeps you on their radar. “If a coach doesn’t respond, that doesn’t mean you stop emailing. Be persistent,” she said.

When coaches do reach out, you can expect them to ask a wide variety of questions:

  • What are your academic and athletic goals?
  • What do you want in a team, school and coach?
  • What’s your practice routine and tournament schedule?
  • What are your strengths and weaknesses — on and off the course?

Key takeaway: Coaches may not find you unless you help them, and while it can be intimidating, try to show your personality, not just your golf skills. Showing that you can work well with others and respect differing opinions indicates you’re likely to be a good teammate.

What were the biggest surprises during your freshman year?

A campus visit helped Joey decide on Drew University. “I could see myself living there and really enjoying the courses and practice facilities we have,” she said. “I considered what was important to me and what I wanted to get out of my college experience, and that also helped me decide.”

But she faced a challenge before the start of the season, when the coach who recruited her left for another school. “That was definitely tough,” she said.

Hunter also had to be flexible throughout the process as he wasn’t able to go on recruiting visits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ultimately, he decided on Colorado because he felt like he could contribute to the team, grow as a player and student and trust the coaching staff, he said.

For Argyle, the biggest surprise has been just how busy life is for student athletes. “From 6 a.m. until bedtime, it’s honestly just a fully packed day with practice, recovery and school responsibilities,” he said. “There may be a few small breaks but it’s a very busy and demanding schedule.”

Key takeaway: It’s important for collegiate golfers to be flexible and prepared for change. While you’re likely to face challenges during your college golf career, it’s important to consider what you can learn from them.

Any final words of advice?

During periods when you’re playing well, play in as many tournaments as you can to boost your scoring average and showcase your skills, Joey recommends. And keep in close contact with coaches: “Send updates frequently about how you are playing, what you are working on or anything you would like to share,” she said. “It never hurts to show you are interested or really want to play at their school.”

“My best piece of advice for juniors hoping to play in college is to honestly love working hard and love the sacrifices you have to make to succeed,” Argyle said. “I may not have been the most talented or successful junior golfer, but I really love the sport and love playing and competing, and without that I wouldn’t be in the position I’m in today.”

And Hunter recommends enjoying the journey as much as possible. “This is something that a lot of kids in this world do not get the opportunity to experience, and it is a process that could change the life of someone forever,” he said. “Enjoy the process, don’t put too much pressure on yourself to perform and understand that things will work out how they are supposed to with hard work, dedication and having fun.”

The First Tee National Championship is part of our full slate of national participant opportunities, which are designed to keep teens engaged with the program. In addition to competitive golf opportunities, we offer leadership programs, a girls empowerment event and a community service workshop.

Liberty National Foundation extends support for First Tee and its character-building golf program

The Liberty National Foundation announced earlier today an extension of its long-standing support through 2029. 

Committing an additional $1 million, this latest gift brings the Fireman family and Liberty National Foundation’s total contribution to First Tee to $8 million since its first commitment in 2012.

The announcement was made during a special event at Liberty National Golf Club, where the Fireman family was celebrated for their continued support of First Tee’s mission to build character in young people through the game of golf. The new commitment will primarily support four First Tee chapters across New Jersey, which collectively impacted nearly 29,000 youth in 2024.

Jennifer Weiler, Senior Vice President of Network Relations at First Tee, joined Liberty National Foundation and New Jersey’s First Tee chapter leaders at the event.

Jennifer Weiler, First Tee, and Dan Fireman, Liberty National Foundation

“What makes this partnership so meaningful is how it helps us shape young potential into lifelong character,” said Weiler. “The continued support from the Liberty National Foundation allows us to reach thousands of children across New Jersey, particularly in underserved communities where access to character-building programs like ours can be transformative.”

Dan Fireman, Founder of the Liberty National Foundation, emphasized the alignment between First Tee’s mission and his family’s values. 

“Through this continued partnership with First Tee, we’re committed to ensuring that more young people, especially those from underserved communities, have access to the character-building power of this great game,” said Fireman.

Dan’s father, Paul Fireman, was recognized last November when First Tee honored him with the Lifetime Achievement award. 

First Tee has grown into a global youth development organization impacting more than 3.1 million kids and teens annually through its network of 150 Chapters with programs delivered at more than 1,700 golf facilities, as well as in nearly 12,000 schools and more than 2,000 youth centers. The organization has expanded internationally, with programs now in Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, and Morocco.

The Liberty National Foundation’s gift will help further First Tee’s commitment to providing inclusive access to its programs, with a focus on reaching young people from diverse backgrounds and underserved communities.

Breck Booker, West Hartford, Joins First Tee – Connecticut’s Board of Directors

We would like to welcome Breck Booker of Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management in Hartford to the First Tee – Connecticut Board of Directors. Breck has been involved with First Tee – Connecticut as a member of the Goodwin Park Advisory Committee and as a past participant of multiple First Tee – Connecticut Charity Classics.

Breck Booker, Senior Vice President
Private Wealth Advisor
Family Wealth Director

Breck is a Private Wealth Advisor with The Neville Group at Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management and has been a partner since January of 2014. He joined The Neville Group after spending six years successfully building out a national platform at Southwire Company where he developed and cultivated institutional relationships across global markets. Breck’s success in building relationships in his prior career have translated into his current role and reflect his acute ability to understand the complex needs of the team’s clients.

Leveraging Morgan Stanley’s global resources and best-in-class intellectual capital, Breck focuses on providing intergenerational solutions combining trust and estate planning strategies, pre- and post-liquidity planning, cash and lending services, and strategic asset management. As one of the select Private Wealth Advisors at Morgan Stanley with the distinguished title of Family Wealth Director, Breck integrates his institutional experience with the sophisticated needs of Ultra-High Net Worth Individuals, families and Family Offices. His experience and skill set are ideal for helping these clients navigate the complexities involved with managing significant wealth.

In 2019 Breck was recognized by Forbes as a Next Generation Best-in-State Wealth Advisor for the State of Connecticut which highlights the accomplishment of advisors that represent the future of Wealth Management.

Breck received his Bachelor of Arts in American Studies from The University of the South and currently resides in West Hartford, CT with his wife and three children.

Visit Breck Booker’s LinkedIn Profile

First Tee – Connecticut is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors.  The board consists of officers and directors from across the state who serve three year terms and also features Honorary and Emeritus members.

Complete Board of Directors Listing

Unleashing Potential: Selam Olson’s Inspiring Journey from First Tee – Connecticut to Trinity College

Selam Olson’s journey with First Tee – Connecticut started at the tender age of seven, driven by a shared passion for golf and community with her peers. Now 17, the Wallingford resident embarks on an exciting new chapter at Trinity College in Hartford as one of the select few – 24 students nationwide – to receive the prestigious First Tee National Scholarship. Olson’s story is a testament to dedication, community involvement and the transformative power of First Tee.

From the outset, Olson was determined to excel within First Tee – Connecticut. “During my freshman year, my goal was to make sure I was the best applicant possible for the scholarship program,” she shares. Her application process was a blend of simplicity and authenticity, featuring a video where she spoke directly to the camera, podcast style, discussing her aspirations, interests and personality.

Olson’s academic and extracurricular accomplishments are impressive. A sociology major with a minor in art history, she accumulated an astounding 668 hours of community service in high school. Her involvement spans various activities, including volunteering with the Special Olympics and coaching for First Tee – Connecticut. Reflecting on her commitment, she says, “Volunteer work has always been my main thing. I didn’t even realize I had so many hours until I counted them up.”

Olson’s weekly routine is a testament to her dedication. “During the school year, I spent early Thursday mornings at a local soup kitchen and this really highlights my passion for community and helping people,” she explains. Her efforts extended to securing an internship at the Hole in the Wall development office, further showcasing her initiative and drive.

Being part of the First Tee – Connecticut community is a cornerstone of Olson’s growth. “The community that First Tee has fostered has been an amazing experience and has helped prepare me for today and the future. They want the best for all of us; I feel very supported and have a network of people behind me,” she reflects. This sense of belonging and encouragement has propelled her to pursue unique opportunities, such as attending Choate Rosemary Hall, a private high school where she was a scholarship recipient.

Olson’s achievements culminated in her acceptance into the highly selective First Tee National Scholarship Program. “I am so grateful to First Tee. I did not expect to get the scholarship; it is very selective,” she says. Her excitement about joining Trinity College is palpable as she looks forward to continuing her involvement with First Tee – Connecticut and engaging in volunteer work both independently and with her school team.

For Olson, the future is bright with possibilities. She envisions a career in the nonprofit sector or public health, fields where her passion for community service can thrive. Her unique trajectory and steadfast commitment to giving back exemplify the values that First Tee – Connecticut instills in its participants.

Olson’s journey is not just about personal achievement but also about the power of community and support. “It’s exciting to meet a lot of other people interested in First Tee and experience this new chapter of life. I’m nervous and excited to pursue college and take the next step,” she shares. Her story is a powerful reminder that with dedication, passion and the right support system, anything is possible.

As Olson steps into this new phase of her life, she carries with her the lessons, values and spirit of First Tee. Her journey is an inspiration to all, illustrating how the combination of hard work, community involvement and a supportive network can lead to extraordinary accomplishments and a bright future.

Full Circle: From Tee to Triumph – Christian Bonvisuto’s Remarkable Journey

At just 19 years old, Christian Bonvisuto of Wethersfield has already experienced a full-circle moment in his life, thanks to the First Tee National Scholar Program. Starting his journey with First Tee – Connecticut at the tender age of six, Bonvisuto embraced the program’s core values, which have shaped his life far beyond the golf course. Now, as a sophomore majoring in finance at the University of Connecticut, he recently embarked on an unforgettable adventure at the John Deere Classic.

“The nine core values (honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, courtesy and judgment) have helped me in more ways than I can count,” says Bonvisuto. “First Tee – Connecticut is about so much more than just golf. It’s about character, integrity and building a strong foundation for the future.”

Bonvisuto’s trip to the John Deere Classic was nothing short of incredible. Playing alongside professional golfer Rafael Campos, he had the chance to talk to Campos’ caddy and read greens like a pro. But the experience extended beyond the fairways and greens. Bonvisuto also played with Leslie Hager, Vice President and Comptroller at John Deere and toured its headquarters in East Moline, Ill.

“Meeting the team at John Deere and seeing how the headquarters operates was amazing,” Bonvisuto recalls. “The entire team contributes to the company’s success, and it’s impressive to see how much work goes into making John Deere a global leader.”

Bonvisuto’s goals for the trip were clear: to meet as many people as possible and make lasting connections. “I didn’t know how I would do it all in one week, but it was far more than I expected,” he admits. “Everyone was so nice, and the opportunity to interact with professionals in my field was invaluable.”

During his time at John Deere, Bonvisuto spoke with interns and learned more about the business side of the company, which aligned perfectly with his goal of pursuing a career in the financial industry. Through First Tee, he’s been matched with mentor Craig Pfeiffer, President and CEO, Money Management, further solidifying his path toward his professional aspirations.

Bonvisuto’s father, Don, was there to witness this milestone event, capturing moments as First Tee members arrived and interacted with pros and executives. “From a parent’s perspective, it’s incredible to see how much he’s grown, interacting with adults and professionals,” the elder Bonvisuto reflects. “It was a humbling experience.”

Looking ahead, Bonvisuto is excited about the upcoming winter retreat in Jacksonville and the monthly check-in calls with his First Tee class of 2023. “We do it on our own once a month, and it’s nice to see everyone and stay in touch,” he says.

Bonvisuto’s journey with First Tee – Connecticut has been marked by numerous highlights, but being nominated for the National Scholarship Program by CEO Mark Moriarty stands out. “I was one of 24 candidates selected from a competitive national pool of First Tee applicants.  Being chosen was truly an honor.”  His involvement with the UConn Husky Harvest Food Pantry, Special Olympics and other community activities has only furthered his commitment to making a positive impact.”

“First Tee gives you so many opportunities in your field,” Bonvisuto emphasizes. “It’s not just about golf; it’s about creating a network and building a future.”

As Bonvisuto continues to pursue his dreams, he remains a shining example of what the First Tee – Connecticut program can achieve. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, character and the incredible opportunities that come when you’re willing to put in the work. With a bright future ahead, Bonvisuto is poised to make a significant impact both on and off the course.

Swinging Beyond Boundaries: Sammy Dunn’s Journey with First Tee

As Sammy Dunn enters her senior year at Berlin High School, her journey with First Tee – Connecticut has already spanned more than a decade. From a young girl taking golf lessons to a junior coach and now a senior member of the First Tee Participant Advisory Council, Dunn’s involvement has been transformative, both for her and for the organization.

“I’ve been with First Tee – Connecticut for 11 years, since I was six,” Dunn shares. “It’s incredible to see the progression of the organization and how it has impacted my life and others.” Her deep-rooted connection with the Connecticut chapter has given Sammy a unique perspective on the evolution and growth of First Tee – Connecticut.

Dunn’s experience with the First Tee Participant Advisory Council stands out as a significant chapter in her journey. Selected as one of only eight participants nationwide, she has had the opportunity to provide valuable feedback and suggestions to First Tee headquarters. “My favorite part was being part of the marketing meetings,” she recalls. “I’m a creative person and loved offering ideas, talking about programming and hearing about other chapters.”

Her suggestions, such as in-person alumni meet-ups and a focus on practical skills like resume building, have been shaped by her own experiences and the feedback from her peers. “The programs are incredibly useful to kids in their teens. It’s important to give feedback based on what we’ve experienced with First Tee,” Dunn emphasizes.

Dunn’s role on the council also allows her to witness firsthand the efforts to make golf more accessible. “Seeing behind the scenes and understanding the efforts to make golf more inclusive has been eye-opening,” she says. Her travels to various national First Tee events, including a memorable trip to PGA Tour headquarters and TPC Sawgrass, have further enriched her perspective. “The experience at TPC Sawgrass was incredible. We took a tour of the clubhouse, went to the arcade and the beach—it was a fantastic time.”

Beyond the national stage, Dunn’s local contributions as a junior coach in Connecticut have been equally impactful. “First Tee – Connecticut has always given me opportunities to engage with golf and taught me life skills,” she reflects. “It fostered my love for golf, and I want to give back.”

Dunn’s commitment to First Tee is unwavering. She plans to remain involved as a junior coach and be an active part of the alumni network. “I want to interact with First Tee headquarters more often and continue giving back to the community that has given me so much,” she affirms.

As Dunn steps into her final year of high school, her journey with First Tee – Connecticut stands as a testament to the overall organization’s mission to build character, instill life-enhancing values and promote healthy choices through the game of golf. Her story is one of dedication, growth and a deep-seated desire to give back, ensuring that the next generation of First Tee participants can experience the same transformative journey.

“I’ve met so many amazing people through First Tee – Connecticut, and those connections have only deepened my engagement,” Dunn says. “The nine core values of First Tee (honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, courtesy and judgment)  are something I carry with me every day. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m excited for what the future holds.”

With her sights set on continuing her involvement with First Tee and beyond, Dunn exemplifies the power of mentorship, community and the lifelong impact of being part of an organization that goes far beyond golf.

Laniah Moffett Shines at First Tee National Championship

A Journey of Perseverance and Community

For Laniah Moffett of Waterbury, participating in the First Tee National Championship at Clemson University was not just about the competition; it was a testament to her journey and dedication to the sport she loves. The prestigious event, now in its fourth year, gathers 48 of the nation’s top junior golfers, with equal representation of boys and girls. Candidates are chosen based on their involvement in their local chapters, essays, character, grades, and handicap indexes.

Moffett, who has been playing golf for 12 years, started her journey with First Tee -Connecticut at the age of five. Now preparing to attend Division I Howard University to further her academic and golf career, she reflects on how her early involvement with the program shaped her. “When I was 15, I began helping as an assistant coach at Prospect Golf Course and East Mountain in Waterbury,” she says. “I also participated in golf shows, representing First Tee – Connecticut, giving back to a program that has done so much for me.”

Competing at Clemson this year, Moffett found the experience both challenging and rewarding. “It was an amazing experience meeting people from across the country,” she shares. “I’ve been paired with some of the same girls since I was ten, and it’s always nice to meet new people and compete in different course conditions. Adjusting to the greens and the different grass types was part of the challenge, but it helped me grow as a golfer.”

Moffett’s preparation for the event included focusing on muscle memory and honing her swing. She knew the competition would be fierce, as many participants are highly ranked golfers, some already committed to college teams. “It’s one of the most competitive events I have played in,” she remarks. “The mental preparation was crucial, and I enjoyed every moment of it.”

One of the highlights of the championship for Moffett was a “Careers in Golf” panel. “You could hear about so many careers in golf, from turf management to college coaching,” she explains. “A lot of golfers aren’t sure what they want to do, but this opened up so many possibilities for me.”

Looking ahead, Moffett dreams of turning professional and eventually owning a coaching business for youth. “I want to go pro and then own a coaching business for youth so I can give back to the younger generation,” she states. “My coach inspired me to pursue this path, and I plan to major in business management to achieve my goals.”

Moffett’s commitment to First Tee – Connecticut and its core values—such as perseverance, respect and giving back to the community—has been a driving force in her life. “First Tee has instilled so much in me,” she reflects. “I have the skill and strength to work hard, balance school with golf, make friends and network throughout college. I plan to stay involved with First Tee – Connecticut and will be there whenever they need me.”

As she embarks on her new journey at Howard University, Moffett remains a shining example of what First Tee – Connecticut programs aim to achieve: nurturing young talent and instilling values that go beyond the golf course. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and the unwavering support of First Tee.

Warren Beardow – 2024 Walter Shelton “Coach of the Year”

First Tee – Connecticut lost a dear friend and coach in Walter Shelton in early 2022.  Walter epitomized what it means to be a valuable coach and mentor to an extraordinary amount of participants in his tenure with First Tee – Connecticut.  He embodied all of the qualities that make a good coach  – compassion, empathy, kindness – and instilled those attributes in his young students alongside the nine core values that are the foundation of First Tee.

In 2023, First Tee – Connecticut established the Walter Shelton Coach of the Year Award and we are proud to have Warren Beardow as the second person honored with this distinction.  Warren’s qualities are similar to Coach Walter in so many ways.  Warren strives to connect with each young individual he is teaching to find the right words to ignite that “AHA” moment in their golf journey. Warren attests that in every class there is always some knowledge imparted, or a way of helping and relating to a child that makes him love coaching. Golf is a difficult sport demanding many types of clubs and shots and it can become overwhelming to a youngster as they are learning the game.

For over a dozen years, Warren Beardow has been coaching kids from ages 7-18 at First Tee – Connecticut primarily at our flagship location in Cromwell CT, and various other facilities around the state. While attending Tufts University in the late 50s, Warren studied English Language and Literature; his vocabulary and way with words is evident in his interactions with the young people at First Tee – Connecticut. Coach Warren is always there on the practice tee, putting green or the golf course with the right words of encouragement, a gentle arm around a shoulder, and a smile doing his best to engage, inspire and motivate the kids looking for their next great shot. At 86 years young, Warren is asked frequently by his friends why he is spending his time teaching young kids? His response is quite simply because he has so much fun! Warren goes on to explain that it is the kids’ smiles and their excitement that are his great reward. Humble and soft-spoken, Warren is extremely modest about the enormous impact he has made on countless kids in our communities, teaching golf and sharing valuable life lessons to assist in their futures. He knows from parent interactions over the years just how much kids rely on these life skills and incorporate the core values at school, socially and even in their adult careers.

Warren took up the game of golf when he was looking for employment as a young man and had additional time on his hands. Taking a fondness to it, he developed his own golf game during his late twenties practicing with famed teacher, Jim McLean, at Westchester Country Club, and playing in tournaments in the Fairfield and Westchester County area. A job with CBS as a Sales Executive led Warren to Chicago and he took classes in Sports Marketing at the University of Chicago. During those years, Warren honed his golf skills further and took advantage of the wealth of great amateur tournaments in this region. A new job spanning 30+ years as a product license specialist, primarily for the U.S. Olympic Committee, brought Warren back to Connecticut.  While he played a lot of golf at various clubs, most often at Lyman Meadows, he began to focus on golf instruction and began teaching for First Tee – Connecticut toward the end of his career. When more time presented itself in retirement, Warren became a Certified Professional Golf Instructor with the United States Golf Teachers Federation in 2006 and offered private instruction at several places. He continues to give private lessons at Indian Springs Golf Club in Middlefield in addition to his volunteer coaching responsibilities with us.

We are beyond grateful for Warren’s many accomplishments and dedication to First Tee – Connecticut representing our organization with grace, intelligence, class, and humor. With no signs of slowing down, we look forward to many more years of having Warren teaching golf and life lessons to our young people. We value his contributions and are honored to recognize Warren with pride as our “Encourager of the Year” as he refers to the award.

Mackenzie Mack talks about the lasting impact of First Tee

“I wouldn’t be where I am now without First Tee.” 

For Mackenzie Mack, the impact of First Tee goes beyond the golf course. The skills, access and values she learned play an integral part in her life to this day.  

With her mom looking for opportunities to help her gain college scholarships, Mackenzie began taking golf lessons. Little did she know she’d end up working in the industry. 

The golf course became a safe place where she would hang out, create a family atmosphere and build a community while growing up, as an alumna of former chapter First Tee – Southern Nevada. 

First Tee gave Mackenzie her first job, the opportunity to play different courses and her current network and friends, crediting a lot of her achievements and her impact to the program.  

“Had I not had such a good program director and such a good program, I would not have felt inclined to pass it forward,” she said. “All of that came from my experience and time with First Tee.” 

Through her current role as the director of DE&I and engagement at Topgolf Callaway Brands, Mackenzie follows her passions by working with employees – an aspect of her job that comes naturally after years coaching with First Tee, she said – as well as the larger golf community. 

Topgolf Callaway Brand has become a major supporter of First Tee, and when talking about the relationship between her employer and First Tee she said, “I am happy and lucky to be at a company that is just as passionate about the program as I am.” 

Now as a First Tee alumna representing her company as a Trustee of First Tee, she provides unique insights based on her own experience. 

Inclusivity is baked into First Tee’s DNA, and First Tee and Topgolf Callaway Brands are partnering on the Game Changers Academy this July. The weeklong event brings together 72 First Tee teens from across the country to facilitate important conversations around issues of identity, diversity and equity. Mackenzie sat on the opening night panel with NFL legends John Randle and Eric Enron, Dr. Shelby Johnson of Mayo Clinic and Ebony Taylor or AWS.

“The world is changing,” said Mackenzie. “We are a leader in changing with it, especially in the golf industry, and as the global leader in modern golf we strive to make golf more welcoming and providing options so that everyone can enjoy the game in the way they choose to enjoy it.”  

She included that there is much more to golf than the competition. This sport gives individuals valuable networking opportunities, physical and health benefits, and can help you navigate career paths in the future.  

Mackenzie will be a panelist at the Game Changers Academy. Learn more about the event. 

Mackenzie Mack talks about the lasting impact of First Tee

“I wouldn’t be where I am now without First Tee.” 

For Mackenzie Mack, the impact of First Tee goes beyond the golf course. The skills, access and values she learned play an integral part in her life to this day.  

With her mom looking for opportunities to help her gain college scholarships, Mackenzie began taking golf lessons. Little did she know she’d end up working in the industry. 

The golf course became a safe place where she would hang out, create a family atmosphere and build a community while growing up, as an alumna of former chapter First Tee – Southern Nevada. 

First Tee gave Mackenzie her first job, the opportunity to play different courses and her current network and friends, crediting a lot of her achievements and her impact to the program.  

“Had I not had such a good program director and such a good program, I would not have felt inclined to pass it forward,” she said. “All of that came from my experience and time with First Tee.” 

Through her current role as the director of DE&I and engagement at Topgolf Callaway Brands, Mackenzie follows her passions by working with employees – an aspect of her job that comes naturally after years coaching with First Tee, she said – as well as the larger golf community. 

Topgolf Callaway Brand has become a major supporter of First Tee, and when talking about the relationship between her employer and First Tee she said, “I am happy and lucky to be at a company that is just as passionate about the program as I am.” 

Now as a First Tee alumna representing her company as a Trustee of First Tee, she provides unique insights based on her own experience. 

Inclusivity is baked into First Tee’s DNA, and First Tee and Topgolf Callaway Brands are partnering on the Game Changers Academy this July. The weeklong event brings together 72 First Tee teens from across the country to facilitate important conversations around issues of identity, diversity and equity. Mackenzie sat on the opening night panel with NFL legends John Randle and Eric Enron, Dr. Shelby Johnson of Mayo Clinic and Ebony Taylor or AWS.

“The world is changing,” said Mackenzie. “We are a leader in changing with it, especially in the golf industry, and as the global leader in modern golf we strive to make golf more welcoming and providing options so that everyone can enjoy the game in the way they choose to enjoy it.”  

She included that there is much more to golf than the competition. This sport gives individuals valuable networking opportunities, physical and health benefits, and can help you navigate career paths in the future.  

Mackenzie will be a panelist at the Game Changers Academy. Learn more about the event.