Each year, the Thomas M. Hyndman Golf Scholarship supports a First Tee — Greater Philadelphia participant with the passion and determination to grow as a competitive golfer. This playing scholarship provides dedicated coaching and mentorship from a PGA professional— an opportunity that not only strengthens a young person’s game, but deepens their confidence, resilience, and character along the way.
This year we’re proud to recognize Lucas Helms, an active member of First Tee. At 15, Lucas has been a participant for 3 years, participating in programs at John F. Byrne Golf Club and Topgolf – Northeast Philadelphia.
Growing the Game, and Growing as a Person
As part of the scholarship, Lucas trained with Bill Sautter, PGA Professional at the Philadelphia Cricket Club, whose thoughtful, patient teaching style made a meaningful impact both on and off the course.
In his own words:
“It was such an honor to receive this scholarship in Mr. Hyndman’s name and to keep growing my golf game at a higher level. Working with Bill Sautter, PGA Professional at the Philadelphia Cricket Club has been an amazing experience. He’s incredibly patient and thoughtful, and his focus on learning, reflection, and mindset really stuck with me.
Bill taught me to think ahead, read the course, and let go of mistakes. I used to get caught up in bad shots, but he always reminded me that you can’t change the past—each shot is a new opportunity. That mindset helped me strengthen both my mental game and my technical skills.
Beyond golf, Bill’s lessons helped me grow as a person. I’ve become more positive and patient, not just on the course or hockey rink, but in everyday life. Whether I’m helping teammates, listening to coaches, or talking with teachers, I try to carry that same attitude. I’ve learned that golf is more than just a sport—it’s a reflection of life and character.”
Honoring a Legacy of Opportunity
The Thomas M. Hyndman Golf Scholarship continues to uphold Mr. Hyndman’s vision of providing young people with meaningful opportunities to pursue competitive golf while developing life skills that will serve them far beyond the sport.
We are grateful to the Hyndman family for making this experience possible— and proud of Lucas for embracing every lesson with enthusiasm, humility, and heart.
Congratulations, Lucas! Your hard work shows what it truly means to be a Game Changer.
To learn more about First Tee — Greater Philadelphia’s participant scholarships, visit the link below:
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.”
Golf Digest awards $175,000 to winning First Tee chapters in celebration of their impact
Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. – (Nov. 5, 2025) – In partnership with Golf Digest, First Tee is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 network awards, recognizing outstanding individuals and chapters who exemplify the organization’s mission to empower young people through golf.
“First Tee has more than 10,000 passionate and committed adults who are involved in supporting chapters throughout the network,” said CEO Greg McLaughlin. “Congratulations to those selected for our 2025 network awards. Our mission would not be possible without their involvement and leadership. We are also very grateful to Golf Digest for their continued support of First Tee and our chapters.”
The awards celebrate the transformative work of coaches, volunteers, educators and leaders across the First Tee network. In recognition of their achievements, Golf Digest will award $175,000 in grants to support the honorees and their chapters.
“We are proud to honor these inspiring individuals and chapters who bring the game of golf to kids of all backgrounds,” said Chris Reynolds, general manager of Golf Digest. “Their dedication helps shape character and confidence far beyond the course.”
First Tee offers programming at golf courses, schools and community sites across the country and in select international locations, impacting more than 3.1 million youth annually. It celebrates its annual award winners each fall. This year’s recipients are:
Tim Finchem Leadership Award: Andrew Hunt, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast Founder of First Tee – Treasure Coast (now part of First Tee – Florida Gold Coast), Hunt has served as a board member and passionate mentor since 2012. His personal contributions total more than $3.5 million to various First Tee chapters and national initiatives. Most notably, he provided $450,000 to establish a new learning center in Fort Pierce, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast’s most underserved community.
Coach of the Year: Anthony Rodriguez, First Tee – Metropolitan New York With 15 years of dedicated service, “Coach Arod” contributed more than a thousand hours of instruction in the past year alone. He’s been an integral part of the chapter’s efforts to make golf more accessible to New York City kids and teens, including an outreach initiative at Mosholu Golf Course in the Bronx.
George H.W. Bush Volunteer of the Year: Allen Doyle, First Tee – Troup County A former professional golfer, Doyle has led First Tee – Troup County for two decades as its board president and largest donor. Known for his hands-on approach, he mows grass, repairs clubs and coaches at the chapter every weekend.
Teacher of the Year: Michelle Phillips LeBlanc, First Tee – Atlantic Based at Forest Glen School in New Brunswick, Phillips LeBlanc has introduced over 400 students to the game of golf. She’s organized golf course field trips and a STEM mini golf challenge, where students design a course in the gym and welcome parents to play.
Each of the chapters will receive $25,000 from Golf Digest to further their impact. First Tee – Canada will split its prize with Forest Glen School. Additionally, Golf Digest will make financial contributions to three chapters that are being recognized with the Barbara A. Douglas & Dr. William J. Powell Community Award, which celebrates chapters that are championing access and inclusivity.
First Tee – Greater Richmond ($35,000) Hosting over 25 annual field trips for Title I schools, this chapter has impacted 500+ kids through partnerships with organizations like the Boys & Girls Club and Police Athletic League.
First Tee – Birmingham ($25,000) The chapter boasts a diverse roster of board members and coaches, ensuring every participant has an advocate or mentor with whom they identify. It also offers scholarships to all participants on free- or reduced-lunch programs.
First Tee – East Baton Rouge Parish ($15,000) Led by executive director Henry Pointer, Louisiana’s first Black PGA professional, this chapter maintains deep partnerships with local schools and nonprofits.
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!
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.
First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin, legendary quarterback Steve Young, First Tee Honorary Chair Jim Nantz, Pebble Beach co-chairs Heidi Ueberroth, Brian Ferris and Bill Perocchi, and PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan pose with a declaration celebrating Pebble Beach Company’s support of First Tee.
Kerr and Rodas-Rhim were paired with pros Steven Alker and David Bransdon respectively
PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. (Sept. 21, 2025) – After a week of exciting competition and personal growth, Margaret Kerr of Friendswood, Texas, and Julio Rodas-Rhim of New York City are the junior winners of the 2025 PURE Insurance Championship impacting First Tee, an official PGA TOUR Champions event, which concluded Sunday at Pebble Beach.
Both Kerr and Rodas-Rhim sealed their victories Sunday with birdies on Pebble Beach’s iconic par-3 17th hole. Kerr and Alker finished 18-under to win by one stroke. Rodas-Rhim and Bransdon finished 16-under and won in a scorecard playoff.
For more than 20 years, the PURE Insurance Championship has provided First Tee participants with the unique opportunity to showcase the skills and values they’ve gained through the program. Held at the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill Golf Course, the tournament pairs 80 standout teens from First Tee Chapters nationwide with PGA TOUR Champions players and amateurs from the business community. The annual event was broadcast internationally on Golf Channel.
“This week, the 80 young representatives of First Tee demonstrated perseverance, personality and exceptional talent on the course,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of First Tee. “We extend our congratulations to Margaret and Julio on their outstanding victory. And we are sincerely grateful to PURE Insurance, Chevron, Monterey Peninsula Foundation, PGA TOUR Champions players, Golf Channel and all our generous partners for helping make this an unforgettable experience for our participants.”
First Tee – Greater Houston’s Margaret Kerr is a 16-year-old junior at Clear Springs High School, who’s been playing golf for 10 years. She referees lacrosse games, fosters dogs and completed Ace, First Tee’s capstone program designed to help teens prepare for the future.
“I don’t even think I can put it in words; life doesn’t feel real right now,” Kerr said. “I was so supported this week by not only my pro, but his caddie, his family – everybody.”
First Tee – Metropolitan New York’s Rodas-Rhim is a 17-year-old senior at Fordham Preparatory School. In addition to earning a black belt in martial arts, he has been playing golf for 13 years. He was the New York State Catholic High School Athletic Association’s 2025 individual champion, and he plans to attend college somewhere warm so he can play golf all year.
“I’m very grateful for this experience,” Rodas-Rhim said. “I really wanted to make my grandparents proud because they got me into golf in the first place, and them getting to see me on TV is probably a dream come true of mine.”
During the week, First Tee partners PURE Insurance and Chevron celebrated their commitment to First Tee’s mission and raised additional funds to support the First Tee College Scholarship Program through special events. The program pairs select First Tee alumni with a mentor and provides professional development workshops and financial assistance throughout their college experience.
This week, leaders from PURE Insurance surprised Malakai Jazayeri of First Tee – Phoenix and Ashton Washington of First Tee – Tampa Bay with invitations to become the newest members of the First Tee College Scholarship Program.
First Tee is a youth development organization that teaches life skills and helps kids and teens build their strength of character through golf. The PURE Insurance Championship is one of several national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters to encourage and motivate participants as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities.
