Category: Feature Stories

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. 

First Tee Leadership Academy returns to Atlanta, headlined by basketball legend Maya Moore 

Teens from across the U.S. will learn about leadership from executives within the Arthur M. Blank family of businesses. 

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. and ATLANTA, GA. (June 17, 2024) – The First Tee Leadership Academy in partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore returns from June 17-22. The weeklong Atlanta event will bring together 48 teens from across the country who will learn about operating successful teams from executives within the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United, PGA TOUR Superstore and the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation. 

The event is headlined by basketball legend Maya Moore, a 4-time WNBA, 2-time NCAA and 2-time Olympic champion, who off the court, has been a dedicated advocate of criminal justice reform. Participants will also hear from leaders like Atlanta United CEO Garth Lagerwey, Atlanta Falcons President Greg Beadles, PGA TOUR Superstore Chairman and CEO Dick Sullivan and Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation Chief of Staff Kelley Gulley. 

It will feature workshops on communication, developing a winning culture and more. Attendees will get a taste of the college experience, with the Georgia Institute of Technology serving as its hub. The group will also visit sites across Atlanta, including the PGA TOUR Superstore Support Center, the Coda building, Atlanta United’s training facility, the College Football Hall of Fame and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. 

“Our participants learn valuable skills at the First Tee Leadership Academy and have made friendships they will carry with them well beyond their time in Atlanta,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “We are grateful to PGA TOUR Superstore for supporting these truly life-changing events.” 

PGA TOUR Superstore has been a partner of First Tee for more than a decade, providing financial support and in-kind donations. It provides chapter grants to promote teen retention and supports national events like the Leadership Academy, Leadership Summit and Leadership Series. 

The First Tee Leadership Academy is one of ten national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters to inspire and empower teens as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities.  

To be eligible to apply for the Academy, teens were required to participate in a five-week Leadership Series that was hosted at PGA TOUR Superstores across the country this past spring.  

First Tee alumni share the advice they’d give their younger selves 

With graduation in the books, many kids and teens are looking ahead to the future. But we asked First Tee alumni to look back and consider the advice they’d share with their 18-year-old self.

David Singh 
First Tee – Tampa Bay
Recently earned his Master in Healthcare Administration at the University of Pittsburgh

“Life is not always gonna stick to the script you’ve got in your head. Sometimes, it’ll throw you curveballs you never saw coming. Roll with the punches, stay flexible, and remember, there’s always a silver lining in every setback. Keep your chin up, ’cause even when things don’t go as planned, there’s still a world of amazing possibilities out there waiting for you.”

Savannah Mansueti 
First Tee – Florida Gold Coast 
Manager of operations at First Tee – Florida Gold Coast

“If I could advise my 18-year-old self, I’d emphasize embracing failure as a key part of learning and growth, seeing setbacks as opportunities to refine skills. I’d also stress the importance of building strong relationships with family, friends, mentors and colleagues for support and guidance. Lastly, I’d recommend prioritizing financial literacy early on, mastering budgeting, saving and investing for long-term stability and success.”

Haili Moore 
First Tee – Greater Dallas
Student at Texas Christian University and entry-level staff accountant 

“Do not allow yourself to settle in relationships, careers, friendships, education, etc. You are worth what you allow to infiltrate your time, peace and space. The thing is though, is that you are worth more than you’ll ever know.”

Jamie Rush 
First Tee – Pittsburgh 
Methodist University marketing student with a concentration in professional golf management 

“My advice would be to live in the moment. We are always wishing for the next big moment and forget to treasure the times that we are currently in. I’m still trying to learn this lesson today. Enjoy every aspect of the here and now, slow down and don’t wish your life away.”

Spencer McIntosh 
First Tee – Tampa Bay 
Director of business intelligence and analytics at First Tee 

“I would encourage my 18-year-old self to be continuously educating yourself whether that be reading more books, taking additional courses or seeking mentorship. I’d also recommend that he build a strong network and surround himself with supportive and knowledgeable people so you can apply those lessons to his passions. Then finally, I’d tell him to pay those gifts forward to the next generation of game changers!”

Srishti Dhurandhar  
First Tee – Metropolitan New York  
Business and technology management student and collegiate golfer at NYU 

“Some advice for my younger self would be to be less afraid to ask for help and make mistakes. I learned the most when things didn’t go according to plan and wish I had spent less time worrying about doing everything perfectly because everything will work out in the end as long as you surround yourself with people you can lean on. “

Are you a First Tee alumna? Learn more about the First Tee Alumni Network.

First Tee Scholar Kelly Low is launching her career at AWS

Established in 2020, the First Tee College Scholarship Program is celebrating its first graduating class. Among its ranks is First Tee – Fort Worth alumna Kelly Low, who recently graduated from the University of Texas at Dallas.

Now, Kelly is embarking on her career with one of the world’s most influential companies, which also happens to be a major supporter of First Tee.

She’s going to be a solutions architect for AWS based in Austin. “What excites me the most is the opportunity to innovate for each unique customer scenario,” she said. Kelly also said it feels profoundly gratifying to work for a company that’s so actively engaged with First Tee.

From mentoring alumni to encouraging staff to volunteer with local chapters, AWS supports First Tee in a variety of ways. 

AWS posted an internship opportunity on the First Tee Alumni Platform, and First Tee scholarship manager Robbie Lowman passed it along to Kelly. She applied, received an internship offer, and the rest is history.

Francessca Vasquez, VP, AWS Professional Services and Generative AI Innovation Center said, “Witnessing the positive impact of First Tee on lives like Kelly’s is a privilege that makes our work as First Tee Trustees truly meaningful and inspiring. Like Amazon’s Leadership Principle of ‘Learn and Be Curious,’ this story exemplifies the power of continuous learning and growth, inspiring us to keep exploring new ways to empower and uplift the next generation of builders.”

Kelly has already experienced AWS re:Invent, the world’s largest annual cloud computing conference, where she was invited to play in the AWS ProAm in 2023.

“I am excited for Kelly and her role with AWS,” Lowman said. “After getting to know her over the last few years, she is a passionate learner who has a deep appreciation for emerging technology. Kelly will thrive at AWS because of the supportive environment, and we are grateful for their continued support.”

As a participant and Scholar, Kelly has been involved with First Tee for nearly a decade, and she said she still uses its lessons today. “First Tee’s approach to perseverance goes beyond mere persistence. It encompasses managing emotions, setting realistic goals and maintaining a positive attitude in the face of challenges,” she said.

As part of the First Tee College Scholarship Program, each Scholar receives financial support, professional development opportunities and a dedicated mentor. Kelly’s favorite part of the program was getting to know her peers and her mentor from AWS, Heidi Buck.

AWS signed on as a First Tee Trustee in 2021 and has focused its efforts on teen retention. The company also invites its employees to volunteer at First Tee chapters around the globe.

“First Tee’s goal is to provide kids with experiences that build character, and AWS has been a great supporter of that mission,” said Jennifer Weiler, First Tee’s senior vice president of network relations. “We’re grateful for the relationship and excited to follow Kelly’s journey with AWS.”

In the tough moments, Mahek Acharya wants athletes to know they’re not alone 

Mahek Acharya’s golf journey began when her uncle gifted her a set of pink clubs. “I tried other sports, but golf just stuck with me,” she said. She went on to join First Tee – Greater Chicago and play on her high school team. 

But as all players know, golf doesn’t always cooperate. “One season, things were going really great,” Mahek explained. “I was having fun and playing well, but then all the sudden, I just couldn’t hit the ball. I don’t know what happened, but it was really demotivating. I even told my parents I wanted to quit, but I knew I couldn’t give up the sport I love.” 

It was this experience that inspired Mahek to start her podcast, Insights of the Mental Game. “I knew I needed to find a solution and talking things out has always helped me,” she said. “It’s been a journey, but the podcast has helped me love golf again, and people have told me it’s helped them too, which I think is my biggest accomplishment.” 

Mahek has interviewed First Tee participants from around the country, many of whom she met at national participant events, including the First Tee Leadership Summit supported by PGA TOUR Superstore. That’s where she connected with LPGA player Shasta Averyhardt, who went on to appear on her show too. “Mental strength is so important in golf so to hear from a professional was really cool,” Mahek said.  

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, which was created to help address stigma surrounding the topic, but experiencing mental blocks can still be isolating for athletes, Mahek said. “I remember when Simone Biles had the ‘twisties’ and she wasn’t able to compete during the Tokyo Olympics,” she said. “Even in my own community, a lot of people didn’t take it seriously.” 

While her podcast mostly focuses on golf, Mahek has also covered ice skating, basketball and tennis. She’s learned that each sport brings unique mental challenges. “I think it helps when athletes realize they’re not alone,” she said. “For a while I thought I was the only one struggling, but it makes it easier to know other people have these experiences too.” 

Mahek is preparing to graduate from high school and plans to continue her podcast at Indiana University, where she will study business. Though her competitive golf career is ending, she said she’ll continue playing for fun and stay involved with First Tee. 

“I’m just so happy I could make change with this podcast,” she said. “Making a difference in even one person’s life is such a great feeling.” 

Where are they now: First Tee National Championship winners 

First Tee returns to Clemson University this year for its 4th annual National Championship. This year’s field includes 24 boys and 24 girls from First Tee chapters across the country to experience what golf looks like at the next level.

In addition to showcasing their skills and perseverance on the course, players will also attend a golf careers panel and a keynote address from First Tee alumnus Gavin Parker. 

This year’s tournament will be streamed on Gamecast, and you can follow scoring on Golf Genius. 

Before we head to Clemson, we caught up with our past winners to see what they’re up to. 

Ashton Harper  
First Tee — Roanoke Valley 

Ashton won the inaugural First Tee National Championship at Clemson in 2021 and is now a member of the golf team at Virginia Tech, where he is majoring in business. Ashton said his experience with First Tee taught him valuable lessons in perseverance. “Golf is not a game of perfect, and there will always be ups and downs when playing this game, but they are magnified in tournaments due to the high stakes. I was able to use perseverance to fight these ups and downs,” he said. 

Ashton aims to become an All-ACC player by the end of his tenure at Virginia Tech before going on to play professionally. 

Symran Shah 
First Tee — Greater Dallas 

Like Ashton, Symran won the First Tee National Championship at Clemson in 2021 and now plays golf at Virginia Tech. She studies business and plans to have a career in healthcare administration. 

Hannah Lydic 
First Tee — Delaware 

Hannah won the 2022 First Tee National Championship held at Notre Dame and is now a member of the golf team at the University of Richmond, majoring in business administration with a concentration in marketing. Her experience in the First Tee National Championship taught her patience and perseverance in both herself and her game, she said. 

As a Spider, she’s won awards for golf and academics. “What’s cool about the game of golf is that if you play calm and treat your playing partners with kindness, you will ultimately have a better experience on the course which will allow you to play at a higher level,” she said. Because of her experience with First Tee coaches, she fell in love with golf and now has the goal to become a collegiate golf coach. 

Hunter Swanson 
First Tee — Green Valley Ranch 

Hunter won the First Tee National Championship at Notre Dame in 2022 and is now a business student and member of the golf team at the University of Colorado, Boulder. Hunter lost to Ashton in a playoff at the 2021 First Tee National Championship, which inspired him to have the perseverance to come back and win at Notre Dame and taught him how to be more comfortable in high stress situations, he said.  

As a college golfer, Hunter said the most important lesson he learned from First Tee is confidence. “I find I play more relaxed and have a better game when I practice enough to believe in my abilities,” he said. Since winning the First Tee National Championship, Hunter has made the Colorado Golf Hall of Fame, been a Pac-12 Men’s Golfer of the Week and the Nevada State Amateur runner up. 

Megan Meng  
First Tee — Greater Trenton 

Megan won the 2023 First Tee National Championship at Stanford and is preparing to begin her college golf career at Northwestern, where she’ll study economics. Her experience playing in the First Tee National Championship challenged her to be hardworking and patient. She said she continues to use other First Tee lessons. “I find that it is important to always apply respect, sportsmanship and courtesy to those you are playing with,” said Megan, who also won the 2022 PURE Insurance Championship. 

Recently, Megan was a member of Team USA at the 2023 Junior Solheim Cup and a 2023 Rolex Scholastic Junior All-American. She’s currently in the Top 10 of the AJGA Rankings and plans to pursue professional golf. 

Cooper Groshart 
First Tee — Central Coast 

Cooper won the 2023 First Tee National Championship at Stanford and now attends California State East Bay, as a business administration major and a member of the golf team. Confidence is a First Tee lesson that Cooper keeps with him today while playing competitive golf. His experience in the First Tee National Championship was inspiring, as he saw so many people from different places share the same drive to compete and succeed in golf, he said.  

Cooper played in the 2023 U.S. Junior Amateur in Charleston. As a freshman, he competed in 12 tournaments with his college team and has been on the dean’s list both semesters. He said his goal is to continue to improve as a player and a person. 

Learn more about the First Tee National Championship.