For five First Tee – Greater Philadelphia participants, the 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club was more than just a major championship—it was an unforgettable opportunity to experience the game at its highest level.
Throughout championship week, Lewis Cantres, Jake Ruppert, Hank Charlton, Andi Jones, and Jon Dilliplane served as standard bearers, walking inside the ropes alongside the world’s best golfers while carrying the official score signs for their groups.
For these students, the experience represented far more than a front-row seat to one of golf’s biggest events. It was a reflection of years of hard work, dedication, and the life skills they have developed through First Tee.
At First Tee – Greater Philadelphia, we use golf as a platform to help young people build confidence, perseverance, integrity, leadership, and resilience. Opportunities like serving as a standard bearer at a major championship demonstrate what’s possible when young people are given the support, mentorship, and opportunities to grow.
One of those students was Andi Jones, a high school senior who has been involved with First Tee for 13 years as a participant, coach, and caddie. This fall, Andi will attend Howard University, continuing a journey shaped by years of growth through the game of golf.
For the past four years, Andi has caddied at Huntingdon Valley Country Club and was especially excited for the chance to see the world’s best players compete up close at Aronimink.
“First Tee has had a positive impact on my life due to the great opportunities that they have provided! I have been able to venture out into caddying, play tournaments, and grow both on and off the course. First Tee has allowed me to have experiences I wouldn’t have had otherwise.”
Jake Ruppert, another high school senior, will attend Pennsylvania State University this fall as a Platt Evans Scholar—an incredible achievement that recognizes his dedication both academically and through caddying.
Jake has been involved with First Tee for six years and has spent the last five years caddying through our program at Union League Golf Club at Torresdale. During championship week, he was particularly interested in observing how the world’s best players handle the pressure and challenges of competing on golf’s biggest stage.
“First Tee has taught me way more than just how to play golf. It has helped me build confidence, learn important life skills, and understand values like respect, honesty, and perseverance. Through First Tee, I have had opportunities that I never would have imagined, like attending Golf to Paradise in Naples, Florida, the Game Changers Academy, the Innovators Forum, and even getting to go to a practice round at the Masters through the generosity of a First Tee donor.”
Jake’s week became even more memorable when he served as the standard bearer for eventual PGA Championship winner Aaron Rai during the final round. Walking alongside the champion as he secured the Wanamaker Trophy gave Jake a firsthand look at the composure, focus, and determination required to succeed at the highest level of the game.
We are incredibly proud of Lewis, Jake, Hank, Andi, and Jon for representing First Tee – Greater Philadelphia on one of golf’s biggest stages. Their journeys reflect the mission of our organization and the impact that mentors, coaches, and opportunities can have on young people.
As the world watched the PGA Championship unfold at Aronimink, these outstanding students were experiencing lessons that extend far beyond golf—lessons in leadership, professionalism, perseverance, and what is possible when hard work meets opportunity.
They weren’t just carrying scores. They were proudly carrying the values of First Tee alongside the game’s greatest players.