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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

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 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

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

Inspiring the Next Generation

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.”

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 iconic golf destination is being recognized for decades of commitment toyouth development

PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. (Sept. 23, 2025) – Youth development organization First Tee today announced Pebble Beach Company as the recipient of its Lifetime Achievement Award. This prestigious honor recognizes the company’s unwavering commitment to supporting First Tee’s mission of building future leaders through golf.

“On behalf of Pebble Beach Company, we are honored to receive First Tee’s Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Heidi Ueberroth, Co-Chair of Pebble Beach Company. “We have witnessed firsthand how First Tee transforms participants into confident leaders, and we are proud to play a role, including serving as the backdrop for these life-changing moments. This partnership embodies our dedication to youth development and demonstrates how the game of golf can open doors and create opportunities for the next generation.”

Pebble Beach Company has demonstrated dedication to youth development by consistently offering its exceptional venues to First Tee initiatives. More than a thousand First Tee participants have competed in the PURE Insurance Championship, a unique PGA TOUR Champions event hosted at Pebble Beach Golf Links since 2004 with Spyglass Hill Golf Course joining as co-host in 2021. Pebble Beach Company has also played a pivotal role in advancing First Tee’s mission by providing access to its incredible courses, venues and views in support of First Tee events over the years.

“Beyond its status as a world-class golf destination, Pebble Beach Company has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to philanthropy and community support, understanding that true greatness extends far beyond the boundaries of even the most famous golf course,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of First Tee. “For more than 20 years, First Tee has been a beneficiary of that commitment.”

Pebble Beach Company’s support of the PURE Insurance Championship has provided invaluable experiences for First Tee participants and alumni, giving them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at an impressionable age to forge mentorships and build confidence.

The Lifetime Achievement Award honors Pebble Beach Company’s sustained commitment to helping First Tee grow and succeed over more than two decades.

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!

This September, 80 First Tee participants from across the country will arrive at Pebble Beach for the PURE Insurance Championship Impacting First Tee. Among them is 16-year-old Henry Seufert from East Grand Rapids, Michigan, who will be following in the footsteps of his two older brothers.

Henry joined First Tee – West Michigan at 7 with his older brothers, Charlie and Jack. At 15 he became a First Tee junior coach like both of his brothers before him.

“I aspire to one day become a lead coach, like Charlie, and one day inspire other young golfers as Charlie influenced me,” Henry said.

Henry comes from a family of golfers, so his parents enrolled him in First Tee for the life skills and youth development aspects of the program. Throughout their time in the program, his brothers forged a reputation of exceptional dedication and leadership, and Henry’s coaches say he has diligently done the same.

In 2022, shortly after he played in the PURE Insurance Championship, Henry’s older brother Charlie received a heart transplant.

“After Charlie’s heart transplant, golf became his inspiration: His goal was to recover to play varsity golf two months later,” said Henry. “He achieved this goal, with the best season of his high school career. His story motivates me throughout life, especially on the golf course, proving to me that anybody can do anything.”

As Henry prepares for Pebble Beach, he carries with him the lessons learned from a decade in First Tee and the inspiration of his older brothers. Watching his brother’s recovery reinforced the lessons of perseverance and goal-setting that Henry has been learning as a First Tee participant.

Now, as Henry prepares for his own championship experience, he carries not just his family’s golfing tradition, but their commitment to First Tee’s mission. As a junior coach, he works with younger participants, sharing the same enthusiasm and dedication that his brothers once brought to their coaching roles.

The PURE Insurance Championship Impacting First Tee represents more than just a prestigious golf tournament; it’s a celebration of the young people who embody First Tee’s values both on and off the course. For Henry, earning his spot among the 80 participants nationwide validates years of hard work and growth within the program, he said.

Participants at the championship will engage with PGA Tour Champions professionals and experience one of golf’s most iconic venues.

See more about the PURE Insurance Championship Impacting First Tee here and support the work of a First Tee Chapter near you.

Tune into the PURE Insurance Championship Sept. 19-21 on Golf Channel.

By Kristin Westberg – Senior Director, Training & Evaluation

At First Tee, we believe every child deserves a safe, welcoming and empowering space to grow — both on and off the golf course. That’s why we place such a strong emphasis on class management. But what does that mean for your child? 

It means we’re committed to creating an environment where your child feels seen, supported and inspired — not just to learn golf, but to build confidence, character and life skills. 

Building relationships first 

Our coaches start by getting to know each participant. Greeting kids by name, asking about their day and showing genuine interest helps your child feel like they belong. When children feel respected and valued, they’re more likely to engage positively and feel confident in their surroundings. 

Clear expectations = safe kids 

We work with participants to set clear, age-appropriate expectations that keep everyone safe and focused. For example: 

• “Stop, look and listen on the coach’s signal.” 

• “Stay in the safety zone when not hitting.” 

• “Only swing in the hitting area.” 

By involving kids in creating these expectations, they understand not just the rules, but the reasons behind them. This helps them take ownership of their behavior and feel more invested in the group’s success. 

Keeping kids engaged and active 

We know that kids learn best when they’re active and having fun. That’s why our sessions are designed to keep everyone moving, learning and participating. We use stations, group rotations and fun visuals to keep things fresh and safe. Even when it’s not their turn, kids are encouraged to help a partner or review what they’ve learned. 

And safety isn’t just physical — it’s emotional too. Our coaches use positive reinforcement and fair, consistent responses to behavior, helping every child feel secure and supported. 

Consistency builds confidence 

Simple cues like a whistle or a phrase (“1, 2, 3, all eyes on me”) help coaches get kids’ attention quickly and respectfully. Using the same cues across all classes helps your child know what to expect, which builds confidence and comfort. 

Our coaches are trained to support your child 

At First Tee, our coaches are more than instructors — they’re mentors. Each coach receives training in youth development, class management and safety practices. We also partner with trusted organizations like the Positive Coaching Alliance to ensure our team is equipped with the latest tools and strategies to support your child’s growth — on and off the course. Through ongoing learning and development, our coaches are prepared to create a positive, inclusive and empowering experience for every participant. 

Together, we’re creating a space where your child can feel safe, supported and ready to grow — not just as a golfer, but as a person. Because when we manage our classes with care, we make room for character to shine. 

Find a First Tee Chapter near you!

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!

First Tee – South Puget Sound alumna Carly Ikei is preparing for her first season of collegiate golf at Western Washington University. But despite embarking on an exciting new chapter, she’s not giving up her connection to First Tee.

“I want to stay connected to First Tee as an alumna because I think it’s a great program and it gives so many great opportunities to make new friends and to play golf,” she said. “My biggest takeaway from First Tee – South Puget Sound is that meeting new people is always a fun experience.”

She recently joined a group of fellow former First Tee participants for a Seattle Mariners game at T-Mobile Park hosted by the First Tee Alumni Network, which aims to facilitate networking, professional and personal development opportunities for First Tee alumni.

For Carly, the game of golf has always been about more than just swings and scores. It’s about connection, growth and pushing herself to new heights, both on and off the course.

One highlight of her First Tee experience was competing in the Gearheart Cup, a friendly tournament between chapters in South Puget Sound, Greater Seattle and Oregon. Held in the scenic town of Seaside, Oregon, the event wasn’t just about competition; it was about community. “It’s a lot of fun to connect with other First Tee members,” Carly said. “It’s such a unique chance to make new friends through golf.”

Carly also represented First Tee – South Puget Sound as a competitor at the PURE Insurance Championship, a PGA TOUR Champions event at Pebble Beach, where she played alongside Shane Bertsch.

Carly’s dedication and talent on the golf course are undeniable. As she heads to Western Washington University to join the golf team, Carly is excited to travel, compete and experience the camaraderie of collegiate athletics, she said.

But her achievements extend far beyond the fairway. She recently earned her associate’s degree in computer science while finishing high school.

To help us bring more life-changing programs to teens, donate today.