Author: thawes

Three years ago, Jeremiah Brown was preparing for the trip of a lifetime—teeing it up at Pebble Beach in the PURE Insurance Championship Impacting First Tee. He finished 9th overall in the juniors field in 2022, with rounds of 65, 70 and 68 (-13 overall) and was paired with PGA professional Chris DiMarco.   

This year, he’s come full circle, offering words of wisdom and encouragement to our 2025 representatives, Joey Gangemi and Jake Smaron, as they get ready to walk those same iconic fairways.

Below, you’ll find his heartfelt message in full. We’re so grateful for the way our alumni continue to give back by cheering on the next generation of Game Changers.

A Letter to Joey and Jake

Hey Joey and Jake,

Congratulations on being selected to participate in the PURE Insurance Pebble Beach Pro-Am! This is an amazing achievement and a testament to your dedication and hard work both on and off the course. When you get out there and hear your name called on that first tee, and when you see the ocean for the first time walking up the 4th hole, take the time to give yourself the credit for getting there. Many people apply for this opportunity, but only a few are selected. You guys are part of that few who can say I teed it up next to a tour legend and held my own against a strong field of competitors. Seize every moment presented to you, talk to as many people as you can, but most of all, have fun. Yes, go into the tournament and every shot with the intention of winning, but don’t let that hold you back from the real accomplishment of being there. Everyone from TFT Philly has got your back and wants to see you succeed. Have fun and make as many lasting memories as you can!

Best of luck,
Jeremiah Brown

This special connection is what First Tee is all about—building confidence, character, and lifelong relationships that extend far beyond the course.

We’ll be cheering Joey and Jake on every step of the way at Pebble Beach!

As the summer comes to an end, we want to acknowledge our 2025 graduates that will soon be heading off to college! These individuals have dedicated so much time and effort to the organization and the game of golf. We couldn’t be more proud of all that they have accomplished and can’t wait to see what the future holds for each and every one of them!

We are so grateful to have been a part of your journey thus far, and we wish you the best of luck in all your future endeavors!

We had an absolute blast at our 7th Annual Tea Time Girls Golf Tournament & Fashion Show! Guests enjoyed a fun-filled day of 9 holes of golf, followed by a vibrant fashion show presented by Lilly Pulitzer and a celebratory luncheon. The Union League Golf Club at Torresdale provided the perfect backdrop for a day filled with competition, couture, and community.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our donors and attendees, we raised more than $50,000 in support of our mission to empower young women through golf and continue Building Game Changers. This was our most successful Tea Time event yet!

We are deeply grateful to the Union League for their continued hospitality and to our amazing sponsors whose partnership makes this event possible year after year: the Bardaro Foundation (Presenting Sponsor), PwC (Presenting Sponsor for The Landing), Chris & Stevie Thompson (Luncheon Sponsor), and our Golf Cart Sponsors—GLA, CHUBB, Shanu Kurd, and Meg Willoughby. A special thank you also goes to Lilly Pulitzer for once again sponsoring the fashion show, gifting our attendees with stylish belt bags, and outfitting our dedicated volunteers, creating a magical experience for both our attendees and young models.

The day kicked off with 9 holes of spirited play on the beautiful Torresdale course, where our First Tee participants greeted golfers with refreshing lemonade and handcrafted bookmarks—made with love by the girls themselves.

After golf, guests gathered for a delightful luncheon and an inspiring panel discussion moderated by NBC Sports anchor Amy Fadool. We extend our heartfelt thanks to panelists Jillian Mele, Kristen Casey, Eleni McCready, and Sarah Brand for sharing their wisdom, stories, and encouragement. Their words left a lasting impact on everyone in the room and reminded us of the importance of role models in shaping the next generation of leaders.

Then came the highlight of the afternoon—the much-anticipated fashion show! Our 18 models lit up the runway with confidence, striking a pose at every opportunity and showcasing iconic Lilly Pulitzer patterns available both online and in-store. Following the show, the girls were delighted with a surprise from EisnerAmper—tote bags filled with golf essentials to make their time on the course even more enjoyable.

Of course, none of this would have been possible without our visionary founder, Caitlyn Plover. At just 7 years old, Caitlyn dreamed up the idea of pairing a golf tournament with a fashion show—a tradition that has flourished into one of our signature events. This year was bittersweet, as it marked Caitlyn’s final Tea Time as a First Tee participant. She will soon begin her freshman year at Loyola University Maryland, and we couldn’t be more proud. Caitlyn, we wish you the very best in this next chapter—we know you will continue to achieve great things!

As we reflect on this year’s success, we are filled with gratitude. To everyone who attended, donated, or supported in any way—thank you. Your commitment makes a lasting impact on the First Tee—Greater Philadelphia community. We can’t wait to see you again at next year’s Tea Time!

From her first swing to inspiring the next generation of girls in golf, Caitlyn embodies what it means to grow through the game.

Since stepping onto the course for the first time in 2014, Caitlyn has spent nearly eleven years growing through First Tee—both as a golfer and as a leader. What began as a simple “yes” to her mom’s question about summer golf classes turned into a journey filled with opportunity, friendship, and personal milestones. Now, Caitlyn is preparing to serve as a standard bearer at the Truist Championship. Caitlyn—one of 50 First Tee — Greater Philadelphia participants selected to serve as a standard bearer at the event—will get to walk inside the ropes, alongside the pros, for this one-in-a-lifetime experience.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

“A Friend on the Course”

An Opportunity to Represent

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

Big Goals, Bright Future

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.”

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

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

A Life Influenced by Golf

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!

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!

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. 

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.

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

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!