For 13 years, Charli Jones grew up through First Tee — Greater Philadelphia, beginning as a participant at age 5 and continuing until 18. Today, she remains connected to First Tee as a coach, now entering her third year coaching younger participants. Her journey with First Tee has taken her from the golf course to opportunities across the country, helping shape the leader she is today.
Now a senior at Howard University, Charli is pursuing a degree in Business Management with a minor in Legal Communications. She also serves as a coach with both First Tee — Greater Philadelphia and First Tee — Greater Washington, D.C., and is a J. Wood Platt Service to Golf Scholar. During her time as a participant, Charli took part in the Caddie Academy, Girls Golf, Northeast Regional, Golf to Paradise and several National Opportunities, including Game Changers Academy, the First Tee Leadership Summit in partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore and Accenture Mentorship Day.
For Charli, First Tee was about much more than learning how to play golf. The program gave her opportunities to build confidence, strengthen her communication skills and develop as a leader. As she transitioned from participant to coach, she learned the importance of leading by example and supporting younger participants. The experiences and people she encountered through First Tee also encouraged her to step outside of her comfort zone and embrace new opportunities.
One of the biggest lessons Charli carries with her is patience. Golf taught her that things will not always go according to plan and that one bad shot does not determine the rest of the round. Instead, she learned to stay composed, adjust and keep moving forward. Those lessons in patience, perseverance, integrity and confidence continue to guide her in the classroom, in leadership roles and as she works toward her future. For Charli, the lessons she learned through First Tee will continue to extend far beyond the golf course.
