thawes, Author at First Tee - Greater Philadelphia

Driving Confidence and Character: Brayden’s First Tee Story

We’re thrilled to introduce Brayden, one of 50 incredible First Tee — Greater Philadelphia participants selected to serve as a standard bearer at the 2025 Truist Championship.

Standard bearers have the unforgettable opportunity to walk inside the ropes alongside professional players, carrying the scores for fans and getting a unique, behind-the-scenes experience of a professional golf event. For our participants, this is more than a moment on the course—it’s a chance to see what’s possible for their futures.

Meet Brayden

Brayden has been a part of First Tee — Greater Philadelphia for several years, taking advantage of opportunities that extend beyond our core programming. He completed First Tee — Greater Philadelphia’s Caddie Academy, which led to a caddying position at Chester Valley Country Club. He also serves as a Junior Coach and competes in tournaments through First Tee and the Philly Junior Tour

Brayden’s First Tee Journey began at Camden County Driving Range, where he began to develop confidence and a love for the game. Since joining the program, golf has also helped Brayden develop focus and discipline— not just on the course, but in school as well. Brayden is currently a sophomore at The Haverford School.

*Brayden prepares to putt during a First Tee Tournament Series event*

*Brayden (right) with First Tee participants at the 2024 First Tee Championship event*

“Being a part of First Tee has impacted me deeply as a student-athlete. I’ve learned responsibility, integrity, and the value of sportsmanship. First Tee’s coaching staff has helped me build grit, and they supported me academically — even helping me earn a First Tee Academic Scholarship so I could stay at the school I love.”

In addition to building character, Brayden has found First Tee to be a place that fosters meaningful social connections—where he can meet new people, make friends, and give back through volunteering. Golf has also become a valuable stress reliever for him, offering focus, mindfulness, and a healthy physical outlet.

“The program has significantly changed my mindset on how I play, perceive, and teach golf. My goal is to continue demonstrating a positive mindset in golf and in life— both benefits of participating in First Tee”

Looking Ahead to the Truist Championship

To Brayden, being selected as a standard bearer is more than a volunteer role— it’s a dream come true.

“It means the world to me to represent First Tee of Greater Philadelphia, meet PGA players I’ve looked up to, and be a part of something bigger than myself. It’s also a chance to connect with others in the golf community and learn more about the mental focus it takes to succeed at the highest level.”

*Brayden poses with his photo on the classroom wall inside the Michael J. Brown Learning Center at Walnut Lane*

Goals on and off the Course

From lowering his handicap to joining his school’s Honor Council and exploring college majors, Brayden is focused on growth. Golf has given him a powerful outlet for self-awareness and mental health, and he’s committed to giving back— whether it’s volunteering as a Junior Coach or serving his community.

Brayden was recently a volunteer cadet firefighter, and volunteers with different causes whenever he gets the chance.

“If someone were to sponsor my experience, I’d want them to know I’m humble, grounded, and always willing to help others. I believe in service, and I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity.”

Want to help Brayden experience this once-in-a-lifetime moment? Become a sponsor and support his journey today.

Sponsor a Standard Bearer

Celebrating Coach Scott Yard: A Champion for Youth On and Off the Course

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.

Jake’s Journey of Growth, Community, and Confidence

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 game from inside the ropes. It’s an opportunity that recognizes their dedication, leadership, and love for the game—and we’re honored to highlight their stories leading up to the event.

Today, we’re highlighting Jake, a thoughtful and driven participant whose commitment to personal growth and love for golf shine both on and off the course. Jake, age 17, is currently a student at Father Judge High School.

Meet Jake

Jake’s journey with First Tee began through Kids on the Hill, a First Tee — Greater Philadelphia Summer program in partnership with the Police Athletic League (PAL). Since then, Jake has embraced everything First Tee has to offer, gaining both golf skills and life-changing experiences. Beyond his involvement in classes, Jake has participated in:

First Tee — Greater Philadelphia’s Caddie Academy
First Tee Innovators Forum – Phoenix, AZ (National Opportunity)
First Tee Game Changers Academy – Philadelphia, PA (National Opportunity)
PGA Jr. League
Philly Junior Tour
First Tee Champions Challenge – Naples, FL (Coincides with the Chubb Classic)

*From left to right: Jake, Hank, Jake, and Devin pose together while representing First Tee — Greater Philadelphia at the First Tee Champions Challenge in Naples, FL*

“A Friend on the Course”

*A dynamic duo, Hank & Jake, fist bump while playing in Naples, FL*

Reflecting on his time with First Tee, Jake shared:

“First Tee has impacted me deeply, not only by improving my golf skills but also by helping me grow as a person. It has boosted my confidence, especially during times when I feel down. Whether it’s a staff member—Jake Norton, Dave Shields, Rocco Sgrillo, Anthony Hoffman—all of my friends, or any of the other golfers I meet, I always feel like I have a friend on the course.”

He also noted how the program has helped him develop etiquette and networking skills that will serve him for life.

An Opportunity to Represent

Being selected as a standard bearer for the 2025 Truist Championship means a lot to Jake:

“It would not only allow me to be a part of something larger than myself, but also give me the chance to show my dedication to the game and the values that First Tee represents. I would take immense pride in being able to serve in this way, as it would allow me to give back to the game and community that has shaped me into a better person.”

*Jake walks Merion Golf Club’s West Course, representing First Tee — Greater Philadelphia at the 2023 Game Changers Academy*

Inspired by Greatness

If he had the chance to play a round with any pro, Hideki Matsuyama would be the one—because of his consistency, humility, and mental focus under pressure.

“His ball striking is incredible, and it’s amazing to see how he makes it look so effortless… I love when he hits a great shot and throws his hands in the air like it’s the worst shot ever.”

Life Lessons From the Course

Through golf, Jake has learned patience, perseverance, and how to stay grounded in tough moments. He hopes this experience will help him strengthen his ability to stay composed under pressure:

“Golf provides a sense of calm and focus that helps me manage stress and stay grounded in daily life. It also allows me to build meaningful connections with others. Learning how to stay calm and focused during tough moments will be a great lesson for me.”

Big Goals, Bright Future

With a strong foundation, Jake has his sights set on some impressive goals:

Golf Goal: Reach a 7 handicap or better by the end of the summer
Academic Goal: Pursue a degree in finance
Career Ambition: Make an impact in the stock market and build a stable, meaningful future
Life Goal: A loving family, a comfortable home, and peace of mind in retirement

*Jake shakes hands with a First Tee — Greater Chicago participant.*

Sponsor Jake and our Student Standard Bearers!

Jake is one of 50 First Tee — Greater Philadelphia participants selected to serve as standard bearers at the 2025 Truist Championship. Your sponsorship of $1,000 supports our participants in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and young people like Jake, who are working hard to grow into the best version of themselves.

“Sponsoring me would support someone who values growth, responsibility, and contributing to the community in meaningful ways.”

Sponsor a Standard Bearer

Our 2025 Truist Championship Standard Bearers: Meet Emery!

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.

*Emery caddying at the 2024 Mike Quick Celebrity Invitational*

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

*Emery walks the runway, showcasing a look from Lily Pulitzer at the 2024 Tea Time Fashion Show*

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.”

*Emery and other First Tee participants pose with attendees on course at the 2024 Tea Time Girls Golf Tournament*

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.

Sponsor a Standard Bearer

Stay tuned for more participant spotlights as we lead up to this incredible event!

Our 2025 Truist Championship Standard Bearers: Meet Marek!

At First Tee — Greater Philadelphia, we believe in using golf as a tool to build confidence, create opportunities, and inspire our youth on and off the course. At this year’s Truist Championship, 50 of our students have been selected to serve as standard bearers, walking inside the ropes alongside professional golfers in a truly unforgettable experience.

Today, we’re excited to introduce you to Marek, one of our incredible participants who will take on this special role!

Meet Marek

Marek joined First Tee — Greater Philadelphia in 2022, and has been actively involved in programs all over Greater Philadelphia, where he has developed his skills, built confidence, and embraced the game of golf as more than just a sport. Marek has taken advantage of the many programs offered at First Tee — Greater Philadelphia, including our Caddie Academy, Tournament Series, PGA Jr. League, Leadership Academy, and classes at a number of locations.

*Marek, Age 14, playing in a Tournament Series event.*

For Marek, golf has been a gateway to personal growth. When asked how First Tee has impacted him, he shared:

“First Tee has helped me feel more confident in my goal-setting skills.”

Beyond the game, golf has opened new doors for Marek, connecting him with people, resources, and opportunities that extend far beyond the fairways.

*Marek and his father chatting at a Tournament Series event.*

Big Dreams On and Off the Course

Marek has his sights set on some impressive goals:

Get a hole-in-one
Get into a college that will support his dream of becoming an engineer
Create Wireless energy

And if he could tee it up with any pro golfer? Rory McIlroy would be his first pick!

Support Marek and Our Standard Bearers!

We’re so proud of Marek and all of our students who will represent First Tee at the Truist Championship this May. You can help support these students by sponsoring a participant! With a $1,000 sponsorship, you’ll support a student’s journey.

Sponsor a Standard Bearer

Stay tuned as we continue highlighting the incredible participants who will be part of this experience!

First Tee – Greater Philadelphia Celebrates Grand Opening of the Michael J. Brown Learning Center

First Tee – Greater Philadelphia celebrated the Grand Opening of the new Michael J. Brown Learning Center at Walnut Lane Golf Club. Back in April, the clubhouse at Walnut Lane began a major 3.3 million dollar renovation. The event was a success, drawing families, community leaders, and supporters to celebrate the addition of this transformative space to the Greater Philadelphia area.

The new facility represents First Tee – Greater Philadelphia’s commitment to fostering youth development and building character in a supportive environment. Complete with a classroom and two indoor golf simulators, the learning center will allow us to provide year-round access to our programs that emphasize the development of life skills.

“This new learning center will transform our ability to teach our programs in a safe and welcoming environment as we continue to reach more youth in Greater Philadelphia,” said Board President, Michael Brown. “Let’s continue to work together to change the lives of kids, one swing at a time.”

Guests enjoyed celebratory festivities including tours of the building, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and a program featuring the following speakers:

Board President and building honoree – Michael J. Brown
CEO – William Hyndman, V
Board Member – Mike Quick
Director of Golf, Walnut Lane Golf Club – Kyle Spaulding
Global Leadership Academy Founder & CEO and First Tee – Greater Philadelphia Board Member – Dr. Naomi Johnson Booker
Participant – Antonella Ferrer
6abc Action News Anchor – Matt O’Donnell
Councilman Curtis Jones
Blair Christian Academy Executive Administrator – Kia DeBrady

If you haven’t already, come visit us at the new Michael J. Brown Learning Center at Walnut Lane Golf Club, located at 800 Walnut Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19128. Enjoy a round of golf, learn about our programs, and take a look around the brand new, Game Changing facility!

Devin Carpenter Recognized as Haverford National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist

At First Tee – Greater Philadelphia, our participants are excelling both on and off the golf course.

*Devin (middle) alongside fellow First Tee participants at the 2024 Martin I. Katz Invitational*

Devin Carpenter, a First Tee – Greater Philadelphia participant since 2017 and a current Senior at The Haverford School, was recently one of four Haverford students named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists. Over 1.3 million students were entered into the scholarship program by taking the PSAT, and Devin and his classmates are among 16,000 candidates named as semifinalists based on their high scores.

Devin has been a First Tee – Greater Philadelphia participant for the last seven years, and has taken full advantage of everything the program has to offer.

“For the last seven years, First Tee has been a massively important part of my life, both on and off the golf course. I’ve met countless people in First Tee classes and events, formed lasting connections, and had opportunities to take part in a wide variety of impactful experiences.”

*Devin tees off at a 2023 First Tee – Greater Philadelphia Tournament Series event*

In addition to his involvement in our 14-18 golf programs, Devin participates in Play Days, our Summer Tournament Series, and was selected for the 2024 PGA TOUR Superstore Leadership Series. He has also been a recipient of the First Tee – Greater Philadelphia Academic Scholarship since its inception in 2022.

“First Tee is a big part of why I’m at Haverford and have had the opportunity to excel in the classroom, on the golf team, in robotics, and much more. When I look back at what I’ve achieved, I realize that so much of it wouldn’t have been possible without First Tee.”

At First Tee – Greater Philadelphia, we’re Building Game Changers. Through participants like Devin, it’s clear that our incredible students are paving their paths to success through their own hard work and dedication. We are so proud of Devin’s accomplishments thus far and can’t wait to see what the future holds.

Congratulations, Devin!

Meet the Team: Bill Hyndman, CEO

“I am proud that First Tee can make a monumental difference in the lives of many of our students.” -Bill Hyndman

Get ready to meet the driving force behind our success – Bill Hyndman, our accomplished CEO. Bill grew up in Abington, PA, and excelled academically and in the military. Graduating Magna Cum Laude from the University of Richmond’s E. Claiborne Robins School of Business, he was a Distinguished Military Graduate of the ROTC program and was commissioned as a second lieutenant upon graduation. Bill then attended the U.S. Army Rotary Aviation School where he learned to fly the UH-60 Blackhawk and was also a graduate of the US Army Airborne and Air Assault Schools.

Growing up in the Greater Philadelphia Scholastic Golf Association– First Tee – Greater Philadelphia’s predecessor– Bill later became the Executive Director of First Tee – Greater Philadelphia. His favorite part of the job? Helping create the same opportunities for kids that he had growing up around the game of golf.

Bill’s favorite Key Commitment is using good judgement, to which he says “success in life is all about making good choices. If by chance you make a bad choice, learn from it and move on.” His favorite First Tee memory is signing the checks for our first four FTGP Academic Scholarship awardees.

Fun fact– In 2023, Bill was recognized with the Alumni Mission Award from Germantown Academy for his exceptional dedication to a life of service.

Bill has always wanted to learn how to play the guitar, he absolutely can’t live without his family and friends, and his go-to karaoke song is Survivor’s “Eye of the Tiger”.

Alumni Spotlight: Joey’s Journey with First Tee

Joey Morganti was a First Tee – Greater Philadelphia participant from 2016-2020. Throughout his time in the program, he learned valuable life lessons and found memorable experiences that aided in his personal growth and grew his love for the game of golf.

Joey’s introduction to First Tee was not just a chance encounter but a familial recommendation. His sister, Gabby, who at the time was a participant and volunteer herself, believed it would be a great way for Joey to delve into the world of golf and learn more about the game. Little did he know that his decision would shape not only his golf skills, but also his character and life path.

Reflecting on his initial days, Joey admits to being a bit immature, uncertain about his aspirations within the realm of golf. However, First Tee helped guide him through a journey of self-discovery and lead him to new opportunities.

As Joey progressed through the program, he began to appreciate the broader lessons presented by First Tee. It wasn’t just about mastering the game; it was about learning to navigate the ups and downs of life. Through the program, he discovered a wealth of opportunities that golf presented beyond the course.

Joey credits the dedicated coaches and employees at First Tee for playing a pivotal role in preparing him for the next level. Their guidance, combined with their own experiences, served as a compass, directing him towards success.

“Coach Sean, Coach Rocco, and my sister Gabby who is now a First Tee employee were all mentors for me,” Joey said. “They all taught me how to be a good golfer and a better person.”

Representing First Tee – Greater Philadelphia at the First Tee Champions Challenge in Naples, Fl. alongside Lenny Gibson, and the Pure Insurance Championship at Pebble Beach in 2019 left a lasting mark on Joey. These experiences taught him the honor and responsibility that comes with representing something larger than oneself in the otherwise individualistic game of golf.

As a current collegiate golfer at Temple University, Joey helped the team to victory at the Cornell Invitational in 2021 and recently won the Big 5 Championship after winning a playoff tiebreaker– both accomplishments that speak to both his individual skill and his ability to contribute to a team.

Joey’s immediate goals involve continued success with his team in the upcoming spring season. Looking ahead, he envisions remaining active in the golf community, participating in amateur events while pursuing other endeavors.

“My experiences through First Tee have given me the tools to make the right decisions and then be confident enough to trust those decisions.”

Joey firmly believes that First Tee is relevant for today’s youth, providing a space outside of school where essential life lessons are seamlessly integrated with the game of golf. It’s not just about learning a sport, it’s about shaping character, fostering resilience, and building a strong foundation for a successful future.

20th Anniversary Leaders & Achievers Gala raises over $725,000 in support of youth development programs in the Greater Philadelphia area

Philadelphia, Pa. (December 8, 2023) – On November 30, 2023, First Tee – Greater Philadelphia hosted its 20th Anniversary Leaders & Achievers Gala at the National Constitution Center. The event raised over $725,000 to support the chapter’s programs, which provide First Tee’s Life Skills curriculum and golf instruction to youth throughout the Greater Philadelphia area.

*Beasley Reece (right) chats with participants Nella (left) and Rory (middle).*

Over 500 people attended the gala, including sponsors from Independence Blue Cross, Campaign Group, the Siegfried Family Foundation, and Scott Brickman. Special guests Tom Watson and Jerry Tarde spoke at the event, along with First Tee participants and alumni. Current First Tee participant, Jayden Goodson, and alumna Maria Ramos sat down with our event’s emcee, Beasley Reece for a discussion about their experience with First Tee.

*Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Jerry Tarde (left), poses with Keynote Speaker, Tom Watson (right).*

When asked about what advice they had for other young people and First Tee students, Maria shared “Take a risk. Lean into what’s uncomfortable, because that means you can grow from it.” Maria is now a freshman at the University of Pennsylvania studying Computer and Information Science. She was a First Tee participant for nine years, and was accepted into the First Tee Scholars Class of 2023. With the scholarship, she will receive mentorship, professional development opportunities, and financial support throughout her college career.

*Alumna Maria Ramos speaks to gala attendees*.

5th Annual Tea Time Girls Golf Tournament & Fashion Show Raises Over $30,000 to Support Young Women in Golf

*2023 Fashion Show participants in their Lilly Pulitzer outfits*

The 5th Annual Tea Time Girls Golf Tournament & Fashion Show was nothing short of a success. What a magical day we had at the Union League Golf Club at Torresdale. With 9-holes of golf in the morning followed by our luncheon and fashion show, yesterday was a dream.

Thanks to the support of our donors and attendees, we were able to raise over $30,000 to support our young women in golf and our mission of Building Game Changers.

Special thanks to the Union League for graciously hosting us for another incredible event, our Presenting Sponsor, PwC, our Luncheon Sponsor, Deane Brennan, and our Golf Cart Sponsors, Chris & Stephanie Thompson, Shanu & Mark Kurd, CHUBB, and Mullen Coughlin Law. We’d also like to thank Lilly Pulitzer for sponsoring our fashion show and making this a day to remember for everyone involved. We couldn’t have done it without all of you.

*First Tee – Greater Philadelphia participants with event attendees on the course*

Our perfect day began with 9-holes of golf and fun at the Union League Golf Club at Torresdale. First Tee – Greater Philadelphia participants were out on the course greeting our attendees during their round, and some even got to hit a few celebrity shots.

Once we finished up on the course, we headed inside for the luncheon where we heard from our wonderful guest speaker, Villanova Women’s Basketball Coach, Denise Dillon, joined by members of her team.

After lunch, we kicked off our fashion show and our models hit the runway rocking their Lilly Pulitzer to some Taylor Swift hits. Prior to the event, the 16 girls visited Lilly Pulitzer in King of Prussia and got to pick out their own outfits for the show.

*Caitlyn Plover (left) pictured with sister, Cara (right), and Events Manager, Gabby Morganti (center).*

The idea for this event can all be credited to a First Tee – Greater Philadelphia Girls Golf participant, Caitlyn Plover. She had the idea for this event when she was only about 7 years old, and now it’s a huge success every year.

Thank you to everyone who made yesterday so special, and we look forward to seeing you next year!