2026 Caddie Banquet: Celebrating Our 9th Season

As the ninth season of First Tee — Greater Philadelphia’s Caddie Academy came to a close, we gathered on November 2, to celebrate the hard work, dedication, and accomplishments of our caddies. 

This year, 110 caddies completed 1,776 loops across 22 golf courses, collectively earning $177,600. Beyond these accomplishments, the season reflected the perseverance, responsibility, and commitment our participants continue to demonstrate as they develop valuable skills and gain meaningful work experience through caddying. 

Of our 110 caddies, 73 reached the milestone of 10 loops, earning recognition as established caddies. For 36 of them, this marked their first time reaching that milestone at a club. 

Our female caddies also had an impressive season, with 12 girls completing a combined 172 loops and earning $17,200. Eight of these caddies completed at least 10 loops individually, demonstrating their dedication and continued growth in the program.

Key Commitments in Action

Every loop is an opportunity to learn and grow. Through their experiences as caddies, our participants put First Tee’s Key Commitments into action by pursuing goals, growing through challenges, and collaborating with others. They build confidence as they navigate new experiences, strengthen their ability to make good decisions, and develop meaningful relationships with golfers, fellow caddies, and club staff. With each round, they gain valuable skills and experiences that prepare them for future successes in the classroom, the workplace, and beyond.

Earning Their Way to College

The opportunities created through our Caddie Academy extend long after students graduate from our program. This year, five of our caddies earned college scholarships through the program.

• Jake Ruppert, Penn State University (full ride, Platt Evans)
• Sean Allen, Temple University (J. Wood Platt)
• Hank Charlton, Holy Family University (J. Wood Platt)
• John Diamond, Drew University (J. Wood Platt)
• Billy McCalley, Penn State University (J. Wood Platt)

Eight more caddies are applying for J. Wood Platt scholarships. We’re so proud of each and every one of them and can’t wait to see where these opportunities lead.

Honors at the Caddie Banquet

At the banquet, we recognized students who went above and beyond this season:

Most Valuable Caddies (MVCs)

Congratulations to our seven Most Valuable Caddies: Sean Allen, Christian DeFelice, Liam Forsstrom, Harrison Koniecki, Colin Parker, Cara Plover, and Watson Roberts, who also saw great achievements on the course this year.

Jacques Boudin Award

This year, we introduced a new award to honor lifelong golfer Jacques Boudin. Congratulations to Sam Quainoo of Llanerch Country Club on being awarded this inaugural honor.

Greenskeepers of the Year

We also highlighted students from the Greenskeeper Pathway Program, awarding Greenskeeper of the Year awards for the first time. Congratulations to Jon Dilliplane of Middletown Golf Club and Temperance Backus of Walnut Lane Golf Club on their hard work this year.

Hands on Perspectives

Since he has graduated, this year was Hank’s last year in the Caddie Program. When asked what advice he has for younger students beginning their caddying journeys, he shared, “Just get out there as much as you can and get to know everyone. I’ve met some great people and learned a lot just from being around the course all the time. Work hard, be yourself, and enjoy it.”

Our gracious sponsor of the 2026 Caddie Academy is Accenture. We are so thankful for the support they have given to the program and are proud of what our caddies were able to learn and accomplish as a result.

“Accenture has been a proud sponsor of the 2026 First Tee Caddie Academy. The Caddie Program is a great chance to network and develop young leaders on the course. Accenture feels strongly about this program as it can open doors to internships, references, and careers well beyond golf. Every young leader gets the chance to develop confidence, resilience, and dedication. Accenture is excited to hopefully see these bright minds of the next generation working for the company one day.” – Amanda Liddick, Accenture

Thank You

To every caddie who persevered this season: you showed what it means to work hard, act with character, and grow through every challenge. Thank you also to our host clubs, caddie masters, members, volunteers and mentors who welcome these students and invest in their growth. Until next season!