Carter still remembers the first time he stepped into a First Tee class. He was 10 years old, a little nervous, and trying something completely new. Golf felt unfamiliar, but what intimidated him most wasn’t the sport. It was the confidence everyone else seemed to have.
His coach introduced himself, then asked Carter to do the same. That simple moment changed everything.
“The coach had us introduce ourselves. He told me to look him in the eye when I speak, have confidence, and a firm handshake,” Carter shared. “Here I am today, looking a group of strangers in the eye because First Tee taught me confidence.”
That new-found confidence quickly revealed what First Tee has always been about: Building Game Changers.
“I soon realized First Tee is so much more than just learning the game of golf. First Tee is about learning values such as honesty, respect, patience, and perseverance. Qualities that I will use every day, not just on the course.”
Growing Through the Game
Golf offered Carter a new way to approach challenges. Every round tested patience, resilience, and focus. Every mistake became a learning moment.
“You’re not going to play your best every day, but through First Tee, I’ve learned that every round, whether you played well or poorly, gives you an opportunity to grow. The game teaches you patience, focus, and how to keep your emotions in check.”
These lessons didn’t stay on the course. They helped shape his mindset in school, friendships, and life.
“It reminds you that progress isn’t instantaneous. The most important thing you can do is respond to the things that did not go as planned.”
Opportunities That Inspire Leadership
Recently, Carter traveled to Florida along with two other First Tee — Greater Philadelphia participants, for a national First Tee leadership experience— the Innovators Forum. There, he worked with participants from across the country on ways youth can improve their communities.
“We created service projects for our community, along with meeting other First Tee participants from all over America. With the help of each other, we grew our ideas to help create a plan to make a true impact.”
Carter’s project focused on bringing health and wellness to his school through a student-led club.
“It was a great experience that taught me how young people can come together to make a true difference.”
Opening Doors for the Future
From earning a scholarship that allows him to attend private school, to connecting with corporate and golf leaders, First Tee has helped expand Carter’s world.
“I’m incredibly thankful. That opportunity has introduced me to a new environment that constantly pushes me to do better and be better where I can continue to grow.”
He also joined Caddie Academy and now enjoys caddying at some of the region’s top courses.
“Caddying has taught me the importance of skills like responsibility and courtesy, while also helping me build connections in golf. It has opened doors for me to caddy at amazing courses like Aronimink. I really enjoy meeting new people and learning from their life experiences.”
The Future Looks Bright
Carter doesn’t just want to play the game. He wants to pay forward every lesson he’s gained.
“I know I want to live a life of service to my community. I want to be a leader, and I am excited for my future. I plan on continuing to be involved in First Tee and hope to volunteer. I want to give back to this organization who has given me so much.”
He finished his speech with a message to the coaches, volunteers, and supporters who fuel our mission:
“You have allowed me and others to access experiences and lessons that will stick with us for our lives. I can say with confidence that this program has changed the trajectory of my life.”
We were proud to host our 2025 Caddie Banquet this past weekend, honoring the dedication, perseverance, and hard work of all First Tee students participating in this phenomenal workforce development program.
This season, 83 First Tee — Greater Philadelphia students caddied at 19 different clubs — including seven new additions: Merion, Pine Valley, Aronimink, Springhaven, Green Valley, Gulph Mills, and Union National. Our existing partners include Philadelphia Cricket, Whitemarsh, Commonwealth, Huntingdon Valley, Union League Torresdale, Rolling Green, Llanerch, Lookaway, Riverton, Cedarbrook, Chester Valley, and Overbrook. Philadelphia Cricket led the way with 20 First Tee caddies this season. Looking ahead to 2026, we hope to welcome Philadelphia Country, Old York Road, St. David’s, and Waynesboro to our growing list of partner clubs.
Together, our caddies completed 1,288 loops and earned over $130,000 in wages this season.
Top male caddies: Hank Charlton (58 loops), Lewis Cantres (43), and Jake Ruppert (41).
Top female caddies: Caitlyn Plover (33 loops), Cara Plover (22), and Julianna Schmerling (19).
Eight young women participated this season, completing a total of 94 loops and earning approximately $9,400.
Our newest Caddie Academy cohort of 57 students completed 358 loops and earned $35,800. Leading the rookies were Christian Passio (27 loops) and Jocelyn Wallace (11 loops).
We are also proud to celebrate our scholarship recipients:
Max May became the first caddie to earn the Western Golf Association Evans Scholarship, attending Penn State on a full college caddie scholarship.
Caitlyn Plover and Sal Campagna received the J. Wood Platt Scholarship, which supports their college tuition at Loyola and Widener Universities.
Looking ahead to 2026, eight First Tee Caddie Academy students will apply for Evans and Platt scholarships. Evans Scholarship applicants include Hank Charlton, Jake Ruppert, Lewis Cantres, and Sean Allen — all of whom have completed more than 120 loops. Platt Scholarship applicants include Jake Smaron, John Diamond, Olivia Diamond, Billy McCalley, and Tyler Mariathason.
Congratulations to all our Game Changing caddies for their outstanding achievements on and off the course!
One year ago, we officially opened the Michael J. Brown Learning Center at Walnut Lane Golf Club— and what a difference this year has made! Since the ribbon cutting, the new facility has become a hub of growth, opportunity, and community for hundreds of young golfers in Greater Philadelphia.
A Record Year of Participation
Participation at Walnut Lane has reached new heights. In 2025 alone, 981 students have already taken part in First Tee — Greater Philadelphia programs at the Michael J. Brown Learning Center— a 300-student increase over last year. With 91% of total program slots filled, it’s clear that families are eager to take advantage of everything the enhanced facility has to offer.
Expanding Access Through Winter Programming
Before the renovation, Walnut Lane’s winter programming was limited to a league that often had to be canceled due to weather. Between November and March, just 22 students participated. Thanks to the addition of two indoor simulators and a new putting green inside the Michael J. Brown Learning Center, First Tee was able to add 10 additional weeks of programming this year— hosting 272 students across two winter sessions.
Growth on the Course and Beyond
The impact extends beyond youth programming. Walnut Lane saw a jump in total rounds played and is on pace to surpass last years’ round count by more than 2,000 rounds. The enhanced facility has also boosted the club’s overall sustainability and vibrancy, with golf merchandise sales up 43% and food and beverage sales up 30% compared to the previous year.
“We’ll have people come in who haven’t seen the building in years, and they’re just in awe,” said Kyle Spaulding, Director of Golf at Walnut Lane Golf Club. “Having this level of facility for the public golfer has been really special. It’s created a place that feels alive year-round — for kids, families, and everyone in the community.”
Building Futures, Together
The Michael J. Brown Learning Center represents far more than a building— it’s an investment in the futures of Philadelphia’s youth. With nearly 1,000 students served this year and growing community participation, the Center continues to fulfill its mission as a place where young people build character, confidence, and lasting connections through the game of golf.
As we celebrate this milestone, we’re reminded that every swing, putt, and smiles at Walnut Lane represents the power of opportunity— and the importance of a community that believes in Building Game Changers.
The 2025 First Tee — Greater Philadelphia Tournament Series marked a remarkable year of growth and excitement for our young golfers. With 279 participants ages 10-18, this season saw an extraordinary jump from 160 players in 2024— a clear reflection of our expanding reach and deepening impact across the region.
Growing the Game for All
One of the most inspiring highlights of this season was the surge in girls’ participation. In 2025, 110 girls competed in our tournaments—up from 65 in 2024—a testament to our ongoing commitment to creating more inclusive and equitable opportunities in youth golf.
From the first tee to the final putt, our girls showed incredible skill, confidence, and camaraderie, embodying the spirit of what First Tee represents— growth through the game.
A Season Spanning Top Courses
Throughout the season, we hosted 10 tournaments at a mix of public and private facilities across the region, including:
Walnut Lane Golf Club
John F. Byrne Golf Club
Ingleside Golf Club
Kennett Square Golf & Country Club
Philadelphia Cricket Club – St. Martins
Ramblewood Country Club
Each venue provided a unique experience for players to challenge themselves, learn course management, and demonstrate the values that define First Tee.
Competition for Every Level
Our tournament format was thoughtfully designed to meet players where they are. Youth ages 10-13 competed in 9-hole divisions to develop their competitive confidence, while ages 14-18 played in 18-hole events— preparing them for high school, regional, and even national competition.
This tiered approach allows every participant to grow their game at their own pace, building both skill and character along the way.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Beyond the tournament series, we also introduced golf’s youngest enthusiasts to the sport through our Drive, Chip & Putt competitions— designed to make gold accessible, fun, and engaging for kids just getting started. This year, we welcomed 40 boys and girls ages 7-9 at our Opening Day event, providing a supportive, high-energy environment for participants to showcase their growing skills while building friendships and confidence.
A Celebration of Sportsmanship and Spirit
The success of the 2025 Tournament Series is about more than just numbers—it’s about the enthusiasm, dedication, and sportsmanship our participants displayed at every event.
From our youngest Drive, Chip & Putt competitors to our experienced tournament players, each golfer showed what it means to be a Game Changer— growing in skill, integrity, and perseverance with every swing.
For Jake and Joey, stepping onto the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links wasn’t just a dream come true— it was a moment that captured years of hard work, character growth, and everything they’ve learned through First Tee — Greater Philadelphia.
Lessons Beyond the Course
Both participants emphasized that the opportunity went far beyond golf. Communication, networking, and relationship-building were central takeaways from their experience. One reflected, “On this trip, I learned how to effectively communicate with people from diverse backgrounds and professions.”
These lessons are exactly what First Tee aims to instill—skills that carry far beyond the course, and even have the potential to open doors.
Prepared to Shine
When asked how First Tee — Greater Philadelphia prepared them for this national stage, both participants highlighted the same foundation: communication, confidence, and character. “They’ve prepared me to talk and communicate with anyone,” Jake said.
“My involvement with First Tee prepared me for this trip by teaching me how to communicate effectively, listen attentively, and most importantly, have fun and enjoy the game of golf.”
Carrying the Experience Forward
For these young leaders, Pebble Beach isn’t the end of the story— it’s the start of a new chapter. Jake shared plans to bring these experiences into both the business and golf worlds, while Joey reflected, “I will carry this experience with my by continuing to connect with new people, because building relationships is important—people can learn from and support one another in meaningful ways.”
Before signing off, one participant offered heartfelt gratitude:
“Thank you to all the coaches and staff at First Tee – Greater Philadelphia for never giving up on me. You’ve taught me not only golf skills, but also life lessons that I will carry with me into the future.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
Opportunities like this remind us what’s possible when young people are given the chance to grow through the game of golf. At First Tee — Greater Philadelphia, we’re proud to see our participants shine on national stages—and even more proud to watch them bring those lessons home to inspire others.
Kids on the Hill participants enjoy a fun day of golf at Topgolf Northeast Philadelphia
On summer afternoons at Walnut Lane Golf Club, you’ll often hear laughter rising up the hillside—kids swapping stories, cheering each other on, and sharing tips they’ve picked up along the way. This is Kids on the Hill, a program that goes beyond golf, built through a partnership between First Tee – Greater Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Police Athletic League (PAL).
For many of these kids, stepping onto the course is something brand new. The game becomes their classroom, where lessons in patience, respect, and resilience take shape with every swing. But what makes Kids on the Hill truly special is the connection it fosters between young people and members of the Philadelphia Police Department.
Coach Johnnie helps KOH students with their swings at Topgolf
Through shared experiences—walking the fairways, learning the rules of the game, celebrating small victories—participants and officers build relationships grounded in trust and understanding. A sport that might feel intimidating at first quickly becomes a bridge, creating space for mentorship and conversations that matter.
As one participant said after a recent session, “I didn’t think golf was for me. Now I look forward to it every week. It’s not just golf—it’s like having a new team.”
Programs like Kids on the Hill remind us that golf is more than a game. It’s a tool for bringing people together, breaking down barriers, and helping kids see new possibilities for themselves—on the course and in life.
At First Tee — Greater Philadelphia, the heart of our mission is found in the people who show up every day for our kids. Few embody that more fully than Tai Crutchfield—known to our community simply as Coach Tai.
Coach Tai sits down with First Tee — Greater Philadelphia CEO, Bill Hyndman
Born and raised in West Philadelphia, Tai knows what it means to grow up with challenges and choices. Though his father was physically present, the emotional support he needed wasn’t there. His older brothers took difficult paths, and Tai knew he wanted something different. His lifeline came at the local barbershop, where mentors placed a basketball in his hands and gave him a vision for something greater.
That vision carried him far. Playing on courts in Italy, Spain, France, and Germany, Tai’s career became global. But the most important lesson he took from those experiences was that sport is a universal language—one that can empower young people no matter where they come from.
When he returned home, Tai chose to devote his life to education and youth development. Today, as Dean of Students at Elkins Park School and as a beloved coach with First Tee, he uses every moment as an opportunity to teach lessons that go far beyond golf.
“Everything we do in golf is a lesson in life,” he tells his students. “Even missing your target offers a chance to learn. Take the miss, analyze it, recharge, and try again.”
More Than a Coach
On the course, Coach Tai is known for his patience and his presence. He sees each child for who they are—and who they can become. Many of our participants will tell you that he is the voice they didn’t know they needed, the steady reminder to shine brightly, never dim their light, and always lift others up along the way.
It’s why so many of his students continue to call him long after they’ve left First Tee—sharing milestones, victories, and life updates with the mentor who helped them believe in themselves.
For Coach Tai, it’s personal. “Everyone needs that person,” he says. “And I want to be that person for as many kids as I can.”
A Ripple Effect
His impact is felt not only in regular programming, but across hundreds of students he reaches through summer camps, community partnerships, and our Sports for Juvenile Justice program. On weekends, you’ll often find him at Walnut Lane, working with adjudicated youth who attend with their probation officers. Off the course, he organizes enrichment experiences—from trips to basketball courts and museums to service opportunities in Kensington—because he knows that growth comes from exposure as much as instruction.
Coach Tai with daughter, Skylar and Board member, Mike Quick
He is also a proud father. His daughter, Skylar, has been swinging a golf club since she was four years old. Under his guidance, she recently won her first Philadelphia Junior Tour tournament and earned a special invitation to the annual PJT Championship. For Coach Tai, teaching Skylar isn’t about trophies—it’s about passing on the same lessons of character, perseverance, and joy that he instills in every student he coaches.
Voices of Gratitude
The truest measure of a coach is found in the voices of those he’s impacted.
“Even beyond competition, Coach Tai shows up every day with patience, dedication, and a true passion for helping kids learn and love the game,” said Andi Jones, a 17-year-old participant. “I’m incredibly grateful to have had him as a coach and a constant source of encouragement.”
For Rory Jones, 15, the impact has been just as lasting: “He made me feel like part of the First Tee family. I’ve become a better golfer, but more importantly, I’ve gained life skills I’ll carry forever.”
And for Maria Ramos, now a student at the University of Pennsylvania, Coach Tai remains central to her journey: “When I was asked in an interview to name the mentor who had shaped me most, I didn’t hesitate—it was Coach Tai. He believed in me before I believed in myself.”
Coach Tai with alumna, Maria Ramos
A Lasting Legacy
Through his teaching, his mentorship, and his presence, Coach Tai has changed lives. He’s proof that a coach can be more than someone who teaches the game—they can be a role model, a steady guide, and a source of hope.
At First Tee — Greater Philadelphia, we’re proud to call him ours.
The Philadelphia Eagles are back on the field, and this season every kick carries extra meaning. Thanks to our new partnership with Philadelphia Area Chevrolet Dealers, each Eagles field goal scored will equal a $500 donation to First Tee — Greater Philadelphia.
“Touchdowns are great, but this year, field goals are the scoring opportunities for our kids,” said Bill Hyndman, CEO, First Tee — Greater Philadelphia. “We are thrilled to team up with Philadelphia Area Chevrolet Dealers on this campaign that connects Eagles game-day excitement with real community impact.”
The Kicks for Kids campaign turns every successful field goal into direct support for local youth. Funds raised will benefit First Tee’s mission to build character, instill life skills, and provide access to golf for young people across Greater Philadelphia. Programs are offered at no cost to families, ensuring every child has the opportunity to participate and open doors to future opportunities on and off the course.
Rooting for the Eagles Means Rooting for Our Kids
When the Eagles succeed, so do our kids. From helping us provide access to golf and life skills education, to creating safe spaces for kids to learn, grow, and thrive, every dollar makes a difference.
As you’re celebrating each Eagles game this season, know that every successful field goal is directly helping First Tee participants build confidence, resilience, and leadership skills on and off the course. Together with Chevrolet, we’re proving that big kicks can make an even bigger impact.
Touchdowns will always get us cheering—but this year, those field goals are fueling the future!
Jeremiah, left, pictured with his playing partner Chris DiMarco, at the 2022 PURE Insurance Championship
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!
Jason Gillich
School: Temple University (Philadelphia, PA) Intended Major: Sports Management Dream Career: Working for PGA
“When I visited Temple during my college search, it felt like I belonged there, which is exactly how I felt about First Tee when I joined.”
Olivia Diamond
School: Millersville University (Millersville, PA) Intended Major: Business Dream Career: Golf business owner Olivia will be playing golf in college!
“I am very grateful to First Tee. As an employee and a participant, I have gained knowledge and real-life experience that I’m ready to incorporate during my college career.”
Maximus Menna
School: Catholic University of America (Washington, D.C.) Intended Major: Finance Dream Career: Commercial Airline Pilot
“I want to thank the First Tee and all my coaches for helping me grow as a person, continuously driving me to be a better golfer, and preparing me for challenges in the future. The last 15 years have meant the world to me!”
Brooke Arhotakis
School: Bucks County Community College (Newton, PA) Intended Major: Education Dream Career: High School Art Teacher
“I’m super excited to start a new chapter and begin a career in becoming an art teacher. Although I won’t be playing golf in college, it has helped me discover what I want to do in the future. Helping and teaching others about my biggest passions.”
Timothy Hueber
School: Susquehanna University (Selinsgrove, PA) Intended Major: Finance and Accounting Dream Career: Accountant
Gianna Simpson
School: Monmouth University (Long Branch, NJ) Intended Major: Business Dream Career: Lawyer Gianna will be playing golf in college!
Caitlyn Plover
School: Loyola University-Maryland (Baltimore, Maryland) Intended Major: Political Science Dream Career: Public integrity lawyer
“I’m really excited to be starting this next chapter of my life, and I’d love to thank the First Tee for their support throughout these past four years!”
James Taylor
School: Delaware County Community College (Media, PA) Intended Major: Accounting Dream Career: Pilot James will be playing golf and baseball in college!
Devin Carpenter
School: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, Massachusetts) Intended Major: Mechanical Engineering Dream Career: Engineer
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.
Caitlyn has participated in First Tee classes at Walnut Lane and has taken her involvement far beyond the local level. She is a graduate of the Girls Caddie Academy, and now works as a caddie at Whitemarsh Valley Country Club. She’s been selected for multiple National Opportunities, including the 2022 Game Changers Academy and the 2023 Leadership Academy in Atlanta, GA. Caitlyn is also the founder of the Girls Golf Tea Time Tournament & Fashion Show, one of our main fundraising events each year, benefitting our Girls Golf program.
“First Tee has made such a tremendous impact in my life,” she says. “I learned how to play golf, but I also grew as a leader.”
As she prepares to serve as a standard bearer at the upcoming Truist Championship in May, Caitlyn is embracing the moment. “It’s really a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” she shares. “It’s not common to have a PGA Tour event in your backyard, and I am so excited to get to volunteer and take part in it.”
Through golf, Caitlyn has learned skills that extend far beyond the course. “Always say thank you to the people who support and invest in your success, and listening is powerful,” she reflects. “Golf also made me a better public speaker.”
Her goals reflect the same ambition and curiosity that fuel her growth: “I’d love to travel the world. That’s something I’ve wanted to do since I was young. I’m also considering going to law school—it’s definitely a goal of mine.” Caitlyn, currently a senior at Little Flower High School, will graduate this spring and plans to attend Loyola University Maryland in the fall.
For anyone considering sponsoring her Truist Championship experience, Caitlyn shares, “Outside of golf, I sing in choirs and onstage in musicals. I consider a spirit of service to be the thing that motivates everything I do, and I love a good crossword puzzle.”
And if given the chance to play a round with any professional golfer? “Michelle Wie, for sure. I saw her at the ShopRite LPGA Classic when I was little. She said hello and signed my hat. She’s been one of my favorites ever since.”
Want to help Caitlyn experience this once-in-a-lifetime moment? Become a sponsor and support her journey today.
