National Volunteer Week Spotlight
At the heart of every great program are individuals who go above and beyond— not for recognition, but because they truly care. This National Volunteer Week, we are proud to celebrate one of our most dedicated and impactful volunteers: Coach Scott Yard.
Coach Yard’s love for golf began early, and he’s passed that passion on through a lifetime of coaching and mentorship. Starting with his own children, who have gone on to achieve extraordinary success in the sport—including competing in and winning USGA Junior and AM Championships, and playing Division I golf—Coach Yard’s influence has been both personal and profound.
Since 2008, he has served as the Head Coach for the Downingtown East High School Boys Golf Team. Two years later, recognizing the need for more opportunities, he founded the school’s Girls Golf Team in 2010. His efforts have created lasting opportunities for young athletes at the high school level and beyond.
In 2018, Coach Yard extended his commitment to youth development by volunteering with First Tee — Greater Philadelphia, expanding the chapters’ programming into Chester County at Rossi Driving Range. Since then, he has coached countless participants, ages 7 to 18, across locations like The Golf Zone Family Fun Center, Downingtown Country Club, Ingleside Golf Club, and Honeybrook Golf Club.
Coach Yard’s coaching philosophy goes far beyond perfecting a golf swing. He is deeply committed to shaping young people into well-rounded individuals who live with integrity, respect, and perseverance. Whether it’s a student’s first golf class or a high-stakes tournament, Coach Yard brings the same passion, patience, and encouragement to every interaction.
But don’t just take our word for it—hear it from First Tee — Greater Philadelphia participants themselves:
“Coach Yard has been more than just a golf coach to me. He has been a guiding force in every swing, every step and every mindset that I have developed. His influence goes far beyond the golf course because he has been a mentor in my life, shaping the person I am both on and off the green.”
— Emma, 14“Coach Yard is always kind and encouraging to me. He is patient and he helps me learn new things and improve my golf skills. He is an important part of our Girls Golf program.”
— Josie, 11“Coach Yard has a simple, straightforward teaching style that makes things easy to understand. He helped me correct my issue with hitting behind the ball and explained things in a way that just clicked. His wisdom and deep knowledge of golf really shine through. He’s truly an outstanding coach.”
— Jayden, 13“Coach Yard has always been there for me—from First Tee classes, First Tee tournaments, and high school golf matches, he always showed up and encouraged me to do the best I can and also to have fun while doing it.”
— Joey, 17
Coach Yard is more than a volunteer— he’s a mentor, a teacher, and a constant source of support for the next generation of golfers and leaders. We are incredibly grateful for his time, talent, and unwavering dedication to our mission.
Thank you, Coach Yard, for all you do. You are helping shape the game—and the future—one young golfer at a time.
