First Tee

First Tee is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the stated goal of improving children's life skills through golf lessons.^[1][2] Based in Ponta Vedra Beach, Florida, the organization claims to teach more than 3.6 million youth annually through programs across the country and internationally.^[3][4][5]

PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan serves as chairman of the board of governors, which is composed of business leaders.^[6] Former President George W. Bush serves as the honorary chair; he succeeded his father, former President George H. W. Bush, who served from 1997 to 2010.^[7]

History

First Tee was founded in 1997.^[8] Started by PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem, the organization began as a partnership among the PGA Tour, PGA of America, LPGA, USGA, and the Masters Tournament Foundation.^[9] The goal was to make golf affordable and accessible for all kids.^[10]

In 2019, First Tee became a nonprofit corporation, PGA Tour First Tee Foundation.^[11] First Tee has featured in the PURE Insurance Championship, a PGA Tour Champions event played annually in September at the Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill Golf Course in California.^[12][13]

Demographics

The participants of First Tee are children aged five to 18, with participants progressing through the program over time.^[14]

First Tee School Program

Since 2004, First Tee claims to have trained educators at more than 10,000 elementary schools to teach physical education courses.^[15][16]

See also

Walter Morgan (golfer)