Blog Archives - First Tee - British Columbia

First Tee – Canada partners with adidas to Expand Youth Programming Through adidas Birdies for Game Changers

OAKVILLE, Ont. – First Tee – Canada is proud to announce a new partnership with adidas that will support youth programming through the adidas Birdies for Game Changers initiative.

Partnering with five-time PGA TOUR winner and adidas athlete Nick Taylor of Abbotsford, B.C., adidas will provide $300 in support to First Tee – Canada for every birdie or better that Taylor makes on the PGA TOUR this season.

“This adidas Birdies for Game Changers initiative provides a platform for Nick’s great play on the golf course to directly benefit youth in Canada,” said Adam Hunter, executive director, First Tee – Canada. “We are very appreciative to adidas and Nick for their continued support. This initiative will allow First Tee – Canada to introduce more children to golf in a way that is welcoming, inclusive and empowering.”

The adidas Birdies for Game Changers initiative supports First Tee – Canada in providing youth from all backgrounds with access to valuable life lessons through golf. First Tee – Canada’s mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character and promote healthy choices.

“At adidas, we believe that through sport we have the power to change lives, so we’re excited to support First Tee – Canada by helping expand access to programs that use golf as a platform for growth,” said Jeff Lienhart, president, adidas Golf. “Knowing we can play a small part alongside Nick’s performance on the PGA TOUR this season to directly impact the next generation of golfers in Canada makes this initiative especially meaningful. We’ll be cheering him on, knowing that every birdie helps create opportunities for young people across the country to build confidence, develop life skills and discover what’s possible through the game.”

A First Tee – Canada ambassador, Taylor has been a champion of the program’s mission and values. Since 2024, the Taylor family has been supporting their regional chapter, First Tee – British Columbia as a charitable beneficiary of the Nick Taylor Charity Classic. A portion of the funds raised at the tournament directly support the growth of the grassroots program in Cultus Lake and surrounding communities in the province.

“Golf has given our family so much both on and off the course,” said Nick Taylor. “Andie and I are very proud of our partnership with First Tee – Canada and thrilled that adidas will continue to strengthen that relationship, guided by our shared values of promoting the game and the valuable life lessons it instills in youth across Canada.”

In 2025, Taylor recorded 309 birdies and six eagles in 24 events played on the PGA TOUR.

The adidas Birdies for Game Changers initiative will begin this week as Taylor opens the 2026 PGA TOUR season with the defence of his Sony Open title in Honolulu, Hawaii on Thursday.

Queen Elizabeth Pitch and Putt takes First Tee All-Girls programming to new heights

VANCOUVER — After a successful pilot in 2024, the First Tee All-Girls program at Queen Elizabeth Pitch and Putt has expanded significantly in 2025, offering 72 young golfers more than just a chance to improve their swing. The program combines golf instruction with life skills, friendship building, and confidence-boosting experiences.

“All-girls junior programs empower participants, not just on the course but in life,” said Coach Yanni Sui. “It’s about creating a space where girls can learn, grow, and truly thrive.”

Queen Elizabeth Pitch and Putt has played a key role in the program’s success. The staff ensures every participant feels welcome, and the course is perfectly sized for all skill levels. Its supportive, inclusive community has helped make the First Tee All-Girls program a safe and encouraging environment for learning and growth.

Supported by RBC Community Junior Golf, the First Tee All-Girls program was delivered at no cost to the participants and their families, with all equipment provided, lowering the barriers and intimidation of the sport even further.

The program has already had a profound impact on participants like Audrey, who dreams of becoming a professional golfer. Through the All-Girls program, Audrey has developed her golf skills while also gaining confidence, leadership, teamwork, and perseverance. She has become a supportive teammate, encouraging others and sharing her love of the game with friends.

Parents have noticed the difference as well. Dorothy Fong, whose daughter Victoria attends the program, said: “Victoria really enjoyed the classes and always came home excited to share what she had learned. Our family thanks First Tee – British Columbia and Coach Yanni for the kindness, patience, and enthusiasm that radiated through each lesson.”

Coach Sui added that working with the girls has been equally rewarding. “Their positive energy, bright smiles, and eagerness to learn light up my day. I’ve learned as much from them as they’ve learned from me. We’re truly grateful to RBC Community Junior Golf for making this program possible.”

The First Tee All-Girls program at Queen Elizabeth Pitch and Putt continues to grow, proving that when young golfers are given a supportive, equal environment, they will not only improve their game, they will also gain confidence, skills, and friendships that last beyond the fairways.

The First Tee – British Columbia team looks forward to continuing its work to increase female participation in golf across the province. Any women coaches or leaders who are interested in supporting the next generation of girls in the sport can contact [email protected].

Keeping kids safe: How SafeSport strengthens our commitment to youth

At First Tee, creating safe, supportive environments where young people can thrive is fundamental to everything we do. That’s why we follow the guidelines established by the U.S. Center for SafeSport, a critical framework that helps us protect the participants we serve.

The U.S. Center for SafeSport is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending all forms of abuse in sport. Its comprehensive approach includes:

Education for coaches, volunteers and administrators

Policies that define misconduct and establish reporting procedures

A centralized reporting system for investigating allegations of misconduct

The organization’s mission is straightforward: ensure that sports remain an enriching experience free from abuse and misconduct. While golf might look different from competitive team sports, the principles of SafeSport align with our mission of building character and life skills in young people.

We mandate background checks and SafeSport training for all First Tee coaches and staff because:

Protecting participants comes first. Young people deserve to learn and grow in environments where they feel safe, respected and valued. SafeSport training equips our staff and volunteers with the knowledge to create safe spaces and respond appropriately if concerns arise.

Prevention is our top priority. SafeSport’s emphasis on education helps our entire First Tee network understand what constitutes misconduct, recognize warning signs and know the proper steps for reporting concerns. This proactive approach is far more effective than reactive measures alone.

SafeSport helps us build trust with families. Through research in collaboration with The Harris Poll, we know parents show a strong preference for coaches who are trained background checked. Following SafeSport guidelines demonstrates our serious commitment to that responsibility and provides families with confidence that we’re taking every reasonable measure to keep young people safe.

We’re not just checking a box; we’re making an ongoing commitment that includes regular training and continuous improvement of our safety practices. By following SafeSport guidelines, we’re ensuring that every young person who walks into a First Tee Chapter can focus on what matters most: developing their skills and discovering their potential.

Support First Tee’s efforts to build Game Changers.

First Tee, Golf Digest honor 2025 network award winners advancing youth through golf

Golf Digest awards $175,000 to winning First Tee chapters in celebration of their impact

Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. – (Nov. 5, 2025) – In partnership with Golf Digest, First Tee is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 network awards, recognizing outstanding individuals and chapters who exemplify the organization’s mission to empower young people through golf.

“First Tee has more than 10,000 passionate and committed adults who are involved in supporting chapters throughout the network,” said CEO Greg McLaughlin. “Congratulations to those selected for our 2025 network awards. Our mission would not be possible without their involvement and leadership. We are also very grateful to Golf Digest for their continued support of First Tee and our chapters.”

The awards celebrate the transformative work of coaches, volunteers, educators and leaders across the First Tee network. In recognition of their achievements, Golf Digest will award $175,000 in grants to support the honorees and their chapters.

“We are proud to honor these inspiring individuals and chapters who bring the game of golf to kids of all backgrounds,” said Chris Reynolds, general manager of Golf Digest. “Their dedication helps shape character and confidence far beyond the course.”

First Tee offers programming at golf courses, schools and community sites across the country and in select international locations, impacting more than 3.1 million youth annually. It celebrates its annual award winners each fall. This year’s recipients are:

Tim Finchem Leadership Award: Andrew Hunt, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast
Founder of First Tee – Treasure Coast (now part of First Tee – Florida Gold Coast), Hunt has served as a board member and passionate mentor since 2012. His personal contributions total more than $3.5 million to various First Tee chapters and national initiatives. Most notably, he provided $450,000 to establish a new learning center in Fort Pierce, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast’s most underserved community.

Coach of the Year: Anthony Rodriguez, First Tee – Metropolitan New York
With 15 years of dedicated service, “Coach Arod” contributed more than a thousand hours of instruction in the past year alone. He’s been an integral part of the chapter’s efforts to make golf more accessible to New York City kids and teens, including an outreach initiative at Mosholu Golf Course in the Bronx.

George H.W. Bush Volunteer of the Year: Allen Doyle, First Tee – Troup County
A former professional golfer, Doyle has led First Tee – Troup County for two decades as its board president and largest donor. Known for his hands-on approach, he mows grass, repairs clubs and coaches at the chapter every weekend.

Teacher of the Year: Michelle Phillips LeBlanc, First Tee – Atlantic
Based at Forest Glen School in New Brunswick, Phillips LeBlanc has introduced over 400 students to the game of golf. She’s organized golf course field trips and a STEM mini golf challenge, where students design a course in the gym and welcome parents to play.

Each of the chapters will receive $25,000 from Golf Digest to further their impact. First Tee – Canada will split its prize with Forest Glen School. Additionally, Golf Digest will make financial contributions to three chapters that are being recognized with the Barbara A. Douglas & Dr. William J. Powell Community Award, which celebrates chapters that are championing access and inclusivity.

First Tee – Greater Richmond ($35,000)
Hosting over 25 annual field trips for Title I schools, this chapter has impacted 500+ kids through partnerships with organizations like the Boys & Girls Club and Police Athletic League.
First Tee – Birmingham ($25,000)
The chapter boasts a diverse roster of board members and coaches, ensuring every participant has an advocate or mentor with whom they identify. It also offers scholarships to all participants on free- or reduced-lunch programs.
First Tee – East Baton Rouge Parish ($15,000)
Led by executive director Henry Pointer, Louisiana’s first Black PGA professional, this chapter maintains deep partnerships with local schools and nonprofits.

Dear Coach: The Unsung Heroes of First Tee – British Columbia

In honour of First Tee Week, we are celebrating the incredible coaches, teachers, and community leaders who bring our mission to life—on and off the course.

Across British Columbia, over 50 certified First Tee coaches are delivering life-enhancing experiences through golf at 18 green grass facilities.

We are also proud to partner with passionate teachers and community leaders who have introduced First Tee in 65 schools and community centres—47 of which serve equity-deserving communities.

Thanks to their efforts, more than 33,000 youth in British Columbia have experienced the impact of First Tee since 2021—learning life skills that extend far beyond the game.

Being a First Tee coach is more than just a title.

At First Tee – British Columbia, golf is more than getting the lowest score—it’s about helping youth develop into the best version of themselves. This starts with the mentors in front of them.

Our coaches are role models. They guide and support our youth. They create safe, inclusive spaces where participants feel seen, heard, and ready to realize their full potential.

That commitment begins before stepping onto the course. Each coach completes Safe Sport certifications and training to understand golf as a vehicle to teach valuable life skills.

Through engaging activities, participants develop resilience, focus and leadership. Our coaches teach youth how to navigate life’s obstacles and remind them that failure is a stepping stone to growth.

To every First Tee coach, teacher, and community leader—thank you.

Thank you for leading with purpose and shaping the next generation of Canadian golfers, one swing at a time.

Become a Coach

First Tee – British Columbia Featured on Our City Tonight

We are proud to share that First Tee – British Columbia was recently featured on CHEK TV’s Our City Tonight, which aired on April 27, 2025.

Watch the segment here:

The video follows a day of First Tee programming at Musqueam Golf & Learning Academy, highlighting the positive impact of our work with youth across the province. First Tee – British Columbia Program Manager, Scott Stefani speaks about the importance of making golf more accessible to children from all backgrounds — especially those who may not otherwise have the opportunity to experience the sport.

First Tee – British Columbia Development Officer, Kelly Baker-Pabla shares how donor support has helped First Tee grow since launching in B.C., and announces the inaugural First Tee – British Columbia Cup, taking place on July 28 at Predator Ridge Golf Resort in Vernon. All funds raised from the event will directly support First Tee programming at more than 70 locations across the province, helping over 17,000 youth engage with golf through schools, community centres and golf courses.

Musqueam Nation representative and First Tee coach, Kumi Kimura speaks about the program’s impact on Indigenous youth in the community, emphasizing how First Tee provides a welcoming and inclusive space for children to learn and grow outdoors.

The segment also features First Tee participant Constanza, who shares how the program has helped her build confidence and develop valuable life skills, both on and off the golf course.

We extend a heartfelt thank you to CHEK TV and host Jim Gordon for shining a light on the mission and growth of First Tee – British Columbia. Media support like this plays a crucial role in helping us provide life-enhancing experiences through golf to youth across the province.

First Tee – British Columbia partners with community groups to serve equity-deserving youth across the province

For many children, golf is often seen as a sport that is unattainable to them. Whether it’s cost, finding a way to get to a course, or even the perception of the sport not being inclusive. First Tee – British Columbia (First Tee – BC) aims to break down those barriers and make golf more accessible for children of all backgrounds.

Since launching in 2021, First Tee programming has been delivered to over 33,000 youth across the province at nearly 70 locations including golf courses, schools, and community centers, with a coaching staff of over 55 coaches.

The goal is to introduce as many children as possible to golf, particularly those who might not otherwise have the chance, and to offer them empowering and positive experiences through sport.

A key contributor of the program’s reach and success is establishing meaningful partnerships with community and youth organizations.

First Tee – BC has partnered with nearly 20 community centres across the province. Additionally, youth organizations including Big Brothers BC, KidsPlay Foundation, the Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society (CVIMS), and Extreme Outreach Society have come onboard.

Through these valuable community partnerships, First Tee – BC has already introduced over 4,000 children to golf through affordable programming offered in-house or through field trips and events at nearby partnered golf courses.

The connections being built in these communities are bigger than golf.

First Tee blends fundamental golf skills with life lessons. While children learn how to swing the club and about distance control, they also continue to develop skills like goal setting, perseverance, and self-confidence.

Perry Monych, First Tee – BC coach, encapsulates the personal impact this program can make.

“The most rewarding part is seeing kids, who might not have initially been interested in golf, return week after week with enthusiasm and willingness to take on more challenges,” said Monych. “The life skills they continue to develop through the program are invaluable and often more impactful than the golf skills themselves.”

One impactful way First Tee – BC strives to expose more youth to the sport is through try golf events.

These events are offered at no cost to community partners and participants and provide all the necessary equipment. It is an opportunity to introduce golf to children in a no-pressure, fun and inclusive environment.

In August, First Tee program location Highland Pacific Golf in Victoria, BC, hosted a try golf event for over 20 youth from the Extreme Outreach Society, an organization striving to break the cycle of addiction, poverty and homelessness.

Scott Stefani, program manager, First Tee – BC speaks to the importance of connections with community organizations.

“Community partnership is such a valuable resource, helping us to provide disadvantaged children and youth with opportunities they may not otherwise have,” said Stefani. “We are so grateful for community partners like the Extreme Outreach Society.”

The goal is for children to associate a positive experience with golf. Hopefully they make new friends, have fun with their coaches, learn more about the sport and discover more about themselves.

The next step would be to offer registered programming opportunities at a nearby golf course to children who are eager to stay connected to the game.

Through a supportive network of generous donors, First Tee – BC can provide no-cost events and programming and offer financial assistance opportunities to families in need. To contribute and help First Tee – BC continue to make a meaningful impact, please visit https://firstteebc.ca/giving/.

How to make your golf course more inclusive

At First Tee – BC, we value inclusivity and acceptance. There are many impactful ways you can make your golf course a more inclusive environment to everyone that visits.

Offer diverse programming

Provide a variety of programs or events for different ages, skill levels, and backgrounds. This includes golf programming for youth from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, specific tee times throughout the week for beginners, and encouraging women’s participation through women’s leagues or tournaments.

Get involved with your community

Build connections with local schools, community groups and organizations nearby to promote golf. This helps introduce golf and encourages participation among a range of individuals – from youth to retired folks who may have not thought of golf as a sport for them.

Provide accessible facilities

To ensure that everyone feels welcomed and accommodated at your course, restrooms, parking and walkways should be accessible to individuals of all abilities. Many courses also have gender neutral washrooms available.

Educate your staff

Provide education on diversity and inclusion to ensure that everyone feels respected and valued when they visit your course. At First Tee – BC, we require all staff, coaches and volunteers to complete the Respect Group training program, as well as upholding Safe Sport Policies.

Provide affordable options

Financial barriers should never stand in the way of enjoying the game. Offering equipment rentals, affordable lessons, and special membership packages such as family rates or student rates are all options that can contribute to a more inclusive course.

Promote diversity

Highlight a diverse range of golfers, coaches, and staff at your course and through your online channels. In addition, think of ways your course can celebrate or acknowledge days of diversity such as pride month.

Get involved with First Tee – BC

Become a Program Location

First Tee is offered at golf courses across the country. If you’re interested in becoming a program location, click here (https://firstteebc.ca/become-a-program-location/).

Green Fees Grow the Game

In a few simple steps, you can support your community by adding a $1 donation to each green fee. Learn more about how to get started: https://firstteecanada.ca/greenfees/

What to expect at a First Tee – BC session

Trying new things is a great way to build self-confidence. However, it can also be intimidating. While First Tee – BC aims to create welcoming environments, knowing more about what to expect may help your family feel more comfortable heading into your first session.

Here’s what you can expect:

A warm welcome

From the moment you arrive, expect to be greeted by a friendly First Tee coach and/or volunteer. Coaches are dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where every participant feels valued and supported.

As part of First Tee – BC’s commitment to safety, all First Tee – BC coaches and volunteers receive background checks and must complete Safe Sport and Respect in Sport training. In addition, First Tee – BC coaches are trained and certified by the joint efforts of First Tee and the PGA of Canada.

Golf equipment and attire are not necessary

Come as you are! We provide appropriate junior golf equipment and encourage kids to wear whatever they feel most confident in. We recommend wearing comfortable closed-toe shoes.

Our coaches modify the equipment and activities based on age level and skill. Some participants or sessions start with plastic clubs and tennis balls to ensure a safe environment, then work their way up to feeling comfortable with golf irons and balls.

Intro to basic golf skills

Participants will learn the fundamental skills of golf in a fun and interactive setting. From gripping the club to mastering the swing, our coaches are there every step of the way to provide guidance and encouragement.

The First Tee program incorporates many other sports and games into sessions. For example, using unique versions of bowling or tic-tac-toe to teach chipping, putting speed, and distance control.

Life skills integration

First Tee – BC is more than a golf program. We aim to provide kids with tools for success both on and off the course. By seamlessly integrating the game of golf with a life skills curriculum, we create active learning experiences that continue to foster life skills like inner strength, self-confidence, resilience, honesty, and respect.

To achieve this, we incorporate a life lesson or skill into every session. For instance, if the life skill or theme of the month is honesty, the coach will discuss the importance of honest scoring and have teams keep track of their score during a game or competition. Participants will discuss amongst the group why honesty is so important in the game of golf and at school and home.

Empowering environment

Coaches and volunteers are there to offer guidance, support, and plenty of high fives. Here at First Tee – BC, we celebrate every milestone no matter how small.

Even though you’ll find participants of all varying levels at First Tee, many kids can feel nervous during their first session. We like to remind them that every golfer was once a beginner! We all start somewhere.

What’s next?

How do you stay connected after your child loved their experience with First Tee – BC? Sign up for our newsletter for updates and visit your chapter’s registration page to find spring, summer, and fall programming near you.

If your child is ready for a round of golf, check out Youth on Course to learn more about courses near you that offer $5 subsidized rounds for children under 18.

In the news: LPGA phenom Rose Zhang hosts kids’ clinic at Musqueam

Steve Ewen / Vancouver Sun / August 22, 2023

Zhang explained: “It can be simple. Don’t think that they’re all here to watch you. You just step up to the ball and hit it.”

Leave it to a youngster during a question-and-answer session with LPGA rookie phenom Rose Zhang on Tuesday morning at a clinic at Musqueam Golf and Learning Academy to get the point perfectly.

“How do you play with all the pressure? How to play with everyone watching you?” she asked as part of the kids’ queries.

It’s easy to wonder that with Zhang, 20, who is one of the headliners for the CPKC Women’s Open at Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club this week.

She won the Mizuho Americas Open in Jersey City, N.J., in June, becoming the first player to capture top spot in her LPGA debut since Beverly Hanson in 1951. Zhang had turned pro in May, fresh off winning her second-straight NCAA national title with Stanford. That was her 12th collegiate career victory, setting a school record for both men and women. Tiger Woods was among the group that held the previous mark. And Zhang was No. 1 in the amateur world ranking for 141 weeks, also a record.

“It can be a little nerve wracking when you first start,” Zhang told the assembled audience in regards to handling the hype and hoopla. “You just have to accept that. There are a lot of people out there watching you. When you’re out there on the course, sometimes you have to tap into a mindset of this is the here and now, and I’m going to try to do the best that I can in terms of what I’m doing and how I’m playing and how I’m hitting.”

Zhang had a second thought on the subject as well.

“It can be simple. Don’t think that they’re all here to watch you. You just step up to the ball and hit it,” Zhang replied.

She took a handful of questions from the crowd. She hit some balls. She coached some kids as they came up and took a few swings. The clinic was put on by Golf Canada and First Tee Canada, which pledges to “introduce the game of golf and its inherent values to young people.”

Clinic participants worked on various facets of the sport after her talk.

Zhang, who is from Irvine, Calif., started golf when she was nine. Many of the youngsters there Tuesday were about the page. Zhang talked about how it was important for her to “use my platform.”

“I could never have imagined myself to be in this position,” Zhang said when asked what golf meant to her. “Not only as a professional athlete, but as a person.

“I knew that golf would take me to meet other people — people of all ages and different cultures. I never expected myself to engage and interact with so many inspiring people. Golf has taken me a long way. I’m really excited for (the kids at the clinic) to get a sneak peak at this game. You can play with anyone — all ages, all statures.

“I’m really humbled to be someone who can give back to a community that is inspired and wants to go out and try the game of golf. I feel lucky to be able to spend some time here today. It’s never a sacrifice.”

Constanza Ordaz, 9, was among the clinic participants. She has been golfing since she was five and is taking lessons at Musqueam.

“I was really exciting when I heard she was coming today. I get an opportunity to meet a really good golfer,” Ordaz said.

Clinic participant Clayton Kimura, 11, who has been golfing since he was five and takes lessons at Musqueam as well, added: “I want to ask her about what’s her biggest motivation or who’s her biggest motivation to golf.”

The event was attended by several Musqueam elders, and Zhang was presented with a paddle afterwards by the band. Musqueam chief Wayne Sparrow explained that it is a “symbol of her journey and her life as she goes forward.”

“It’s a privilege to have her come down and spend the time with our kids and our elders,” Sparrow said. “To be able to welcome her here is very special to our community.

“It gives our community the opportunity to welcome people to our lands and a chance to get to know us and who we are. It was something that has always been stressed by past leaders on our council. Honour them to come and teach them who we are.”

Sparrow said that golf is thriving with the band members, particularly since the COVID pandemic shutdowns.

For Every Flower That Blooms: First Tee – BC and Musqueam Golf and Learning Academy

Pathways to success often depend on access to experiences and opportunities. Unfortunately, across Canada, many children all too often lack the resources or access to empowering extracurricular activities, such as sports or organized recreation.

Knowing the positive impact that sport can have on a child’s life, Golf Canada’s junior programming through First Tee strives to break down barriers to accessing the game of golf. First Tee – Canada provides inclusive youth development activities to participants as young as five years old, using golf as a vehicle to support the personal growth and confidence of children.

First Tee – Canada programming is offered at golf courses, schools, and community centres in regions across the country with specifically designed curriculum and instructor training for each of these impactful learning environments.

On traditional Musqueam First Nation territory alongside the Fraser River lies The Musqueam Golf and Learning Academy. This tree-lined golf course and driving range [in/near Vancouver, B.C.] is home to First Tee – British Columbia.

The delivery of First Tee – BC programming at Musqueam Golf and Learning Academy began in the fall of 2021 and despite the program’s infancy, there has been an outpouring of positive feedback from the community.

“These kids have been using golf as an outlet, (and) feel a sense of inclusion and safety at the golf course,” says Musqueam Golf and Learning Academy General Manager Kumi Kimura. “They never knew how much fun golf was and that it [can] help as a healthy escape from [a sometimes] not so healthy world.”

Registration for 12 participant spots fills up quickly. The hour-long sessions are grouped by age, varying from seven to 12, and coached by PGA of Canada professional Kelvin Ko and First-Tee Certified Coach Jody Kinsman. Along with learning the fundamental skills of golf, children experience the opportunity to develop or further reinforce many of the life skills and values learned through sport.

Kimura shared a personal story of the opportunity First Tee – BC presented to siblings participating in the program—children who were dealing with familial troubles at home and seeking a positive outlet.

“(To) get out of the house, and still be together as siblings, they found refuge here. They fell for the game… I knew this was not something the kids could afford, however, through First Tee activities, we are beginning to support their development and provide for them as a community.”

For some children, sport can the mean the world; a positive escape where individuals learn about themselves, build confidence, understand commitment, and develop healthy habits—all values worth carrying for life. Together with the support and generosity of donors, First Tee – BC and Musqueam Golf and Learning Academy have introduced the sport of golf to children who might not have otherwise experienced the game.

Golf has often battled a perception that the game is exclusive to the affluent. By creating “hubs” consisting of schools, community centres, and accessible golf courses within a small radius, First Tee – Canada is working to debunk that perception, one community at a time. And with a strong philanthropic community of donors supporting First Tee – Canada, many program locations provide equipment and offer registration at no cost.

In striving to be a world leader in the sport, Golf Canada is committed to changing the face of golf to better reflect the multicultural strength of the Canadian population. First Tee – Canada is providing opportunities, relationships, and experiences for children that are laying the foundation for a more diverse game.

“I believe these are stories that need to be told,” says Kimura. “Golf is no longer an elitist game, but a game for all people, in the good time and the bad.”

The relationship that First Tee – BC has created with the Musqueam community, and the positive impact on participants is a testament to the power of sport, and better yet, the future legacy of First Tee – Canada.

The program’s impact on youth is reflective of the facility’s impact in its community. The name Musqueam relates back to the flowering plant, məθkʷəy̓, which grows in the Fraser River estuary. Like flowers, children grow and develop in different ways, in a healthy, safe, enriching environment.

By virtue of the land, the collaborative efforts of First Tee – BC, Musqueam Golf and Learning Academy, and the game of golf, for every flower that blooms this summer, a child will too.

If you are interested in donating to First Tee – British Columbia please click here.

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First Tee – British Columbia, Will Reach Kids At Schools, Community Centres And Golf Facilities

Images Courtesy of: @vancouverbasketballfoundation / @victory

By Brad Ziemer, British Columbia Golf

It’s getting crowded here on the First Tee. We’ve got honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, courtesy and judgment all ready to play. So that’s two foursomes and . . . judgment, I guess you’ll have to play as a single. Just kidding, of course. You may have heard of First Tee. If you have, you probably know about the program’s nine core principles that it uses to help instil good values in young golfers learning the game of golf. And if you aren’t familiar with First Tee, you soon will be as it is coming to a community near you. First Tee has just started, or is re-starting, its operations in British Columbia. There had been a First Tee chapter in Vancouver affiliated with the YMCA. That chapter has closed and been incorporated into what is now known as First Tee – British Columbia. It has the considerable resources of Golf Canada behind it. First Tee is replacing Future Links as Golf Canada’s junior golf activities brand. Shayain Gustavsp is the manager of First Tee – British Columbia and she’s excited about the prospect of reaching kids throughout the province and impacting their lives through the game of golf. Gustavsp, a LPGA-certified golf coach who spent more than a decade working in the professional sports world, sees a lot of herself in many of the kids she hopes the First Tee will touch in the years ahead. “I am an immigrant,” she says, noting that her family came to Canada from Pakistan when she was just seven years old. “So golf was not on the radar,” she says. “It was whatever free sports I could do in PE and after school that I was quite involved in. So that was volleyball and basketball and tennis, whatever I could get my hands on that didn’t cost my parents any money. My mom joked that I lived in the gym when I was younger. Sports was my life.” Gustavsp says she learned the game of golf by default. “I had sprained my ankle and I was out for about six months. I was a competitive volleyball player and at that time this lady who was a golf teacher understood my family’s financial restraints and had taken my younger brother under her wing and gave him an opportunity.” She gave Gustavsp an opportunity as well. “The more I speak to golf pros and the more I speak to people in the industry, the more I realize it is a common story, that most pros had somebody who had taken a chance and given them the opportunity to learn the game. Most of us didn’t come from money and couldn’t afford it.

First Tee – British Columbia Recently Took Part In A STRONGHER™ Fitness Camp Introducing Golf To Young Women

“So now we have a program that gives every child the option and opportunity to do it. I am so passionate about it. There are times I wake up in the middle of the night thinking of different ways of how we can grow faster or generate more revenue. I am really into it.” First Tee will reach children throughout B.C. in three different ways. Programs will be offered at golf courses, community centres and schools. Gustavsp is particularly excited about making golf available through schools. “My whole thing is just like you learn basketball and volleyball in PE, we’ll now give kids access and opportunity to learn golf,” she says. “Therefore it won’t be a foreign place to go to when they are older and become adults. It will be just like going to the public basketball court in their neighborhood. They will know where the public golf course is in their neighbourhood and no one has the fear, the tension, the anxiety that it brings just to step onto a golf course.” Golf courses, in particular the golf pros who work at courses, are an integral part of the First Tee program. The PGA of Canada is a partner with First Tee in Canada. “They are a big part of this because there is only so much we can do in schools and community centres in the sense of growing the game,” Gustavsp says. “The child needs that outlet to actually go and practice and see what that looks like in the playing field per se. If the golf courses want the next generation of kids to be members at their clubs and come and participate at their local golf course this is the next wave of kids that are going to do it.”

Shayain Gustavsp Of First Tee – British Columbia Helps Show The Basics Of The Golf Setup To A Young Girl

First Tee’s commitment to its nine core values is what sets it apart from other golf programs. Since its inception in 1997, First Tee has impacted more than 15 million young people through its character-building initiatives. Gustavsp knows she is inheriting a system that works. “I am not creating a program from scratch,” she says. “They have already been through all the ups and downs of what works and what doesn’t work. It has been streamlined in that sense. “The whole point of the First Tee is about its nine core values. We are teaching a child essentially to be a good person, a good human being in society through the game of golf.” Gustavsp says she is a perfect example of how golf can help shape one’s life and provide some incredible opportunities. “The game has opened global doors for me,” she says. “I worked for the Orlando Magic and played golf with NBA Hall of Famers. I went to Spain doing some contract work with LaLiga and I played with soccer team presidents and then to England where I used golf to entertain clients and close business deals. I know there are little Shayains out there coming from immigrant families that don’t see the light at the end of the tunnel. I am living proof that this game is for everyone.” It is Ben Neumer’s job to help raise the money to make First Tee a success in B.C. Neumer is the development officer for First Tee – British Columbia and although these are still early days, Neumer is already seeing a positive response from private and corporate donors. “We have already seen an influx of phone calls and inquiries through our website wanting to learn more on how they can get involved in introducing the game of golf to kids and youth,” he says. “We are hearing from people who already have a link to the game and a passion for the sport. They realize what it has meant to them.” Doug Stewart, a longtime member of Marine Drive Golf Club in Vancouver, is a perfect example of that. Stewart, who won three straight B.C. Junior Boys titles back in the late 1960s, knows how the game helped shape his life and has encouraged fellow members at his club to support the First Tee. When the former Vancouver chapter lost much of its equipment in a theft, Stewart and Marine Drive donated 19 sets of clubs to help replace much of that equipment. “We knew kids needed golf balls and I put a box in our men’s locker-room and I said I need educated golf balls,” Stewart says. “They don’t have to be Pro-V1s, give me used ones, scuffed ones, as long as they are semi-round. So we dropped a box in there and we recently donated another 500 balls from Marine Drive members. “I like to give back to golf because it has been such a big part of my life. The golf course is a great place for kids. It’s really a great sport for them to learn and discipline themselves for when they get older.”

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