At First Tee — Greater Philadelphia, we’re proud to help young people grow through the game of golf—not just as athletes, but as leaders, students, and community members. As part of our exciting partnership with the 2025 Truist Championship, 50 of our students have been selected to serve as standard bearers, walking alongside professional golfers and experiencing the event from inside the ropes.
Today, we’re proud to highlight Emery, a participant whose journey embodies the power of opportunity, hard work, and personal growth.
Meet Emery
Emery, age 14, has been involved with First Tee — Greater Philadelphia for six years, participating in classes at Walnut Lane Golf Club as well as the Caddie Academy. It was through the Caddie Academy that she landed her first job as a caddie at Whitemarsh Valley Country Club—an experience that helped her develop confidence , responsibility, and financial literacy skills.
Reflecting on her time in the program, Emery shared:
“First Tee has helped me learn important values and life lessons on and off the green. I’ve made friends with other students in my classes and with some of the other caddies I work with.”
Looking Ahead
With a strong foundation, Emery has ambitious goals for the future:
- Graduate high school
- Attend college
- Become a real estate agent
And when it comes to who she’d most like to play a round of golf with? It’s Annika Sörenstam, whose work through the ANNIKA Foundation supporting young women in sports inspires her.
A Life Influenced by Golf
Golf has had a lasting impact on Emery—not just as a game, but as a space for connection, growth, and resilience.
“Golf has influenced my life outside of the sport because of the social skills it has taught me. Golf has helped me connect with others, make new friends, and increase my problem-solving abilities and perseverance.”
Support Emery and Her Fellow Standard Bearers
We’re honored to have students like Emery represent First Tee — Greater Philadelphia at the 2025 Truist Championship. Their stories remind us why this work matters—and how far a little opportunity can go.
You can help make this experience possible. With a $1,000 sponsorship, you can support one student’s participation as a standard bearer and continue to fuel the life-changing work we do year-round.
Stay tuned for more participant spotlights as we lead up to this incredible event!
