Category: Blog

Game Changers Immersion Program Fall 2022 Recap

January 12, 2023 | Program Update

We’re gearing up for a new season of Immersion Program enrichment activities, and if fall was any indication, spring is going to be fun!

Game Changers Immersion Program participants meet Monday-Friday over the summer, and once a week (usually on Saturdays) throughout the school year. This past fall, weekly meetups alternated between of golf outings, enrichment presentations, and fieldtrips.

Our Game Changers routinely visited Wescott Plantation, where they worked with Coach Johnson and Coach Perry to improve their golf game. They also spent a few afternoons at Stono Ferry getting pointers from Coach K, Coach JP, and the College of Charleston Men’s Golf Team.

“Being a part of the Game Changers program was thoroughly enjoyable. Due to our students’ busy schedules, interaction with members of our local community doesn’t happen as often as we would like. To share their love of golf with the young men and women of Game Changers allowed our team to work together and hone their path towards becoming community leaders. It was not long ago that students in our program would have been part of programs like the Game Changers. To be able to share their skills and passion was exciting and humbling.”

–  Mitch Krywulycz, Head Golf Coach | College of Charleston

Aside from golf, Game Changers enjoyed a photography lesson by YoArt at the Cigar Factory (complete with photo scavenger hunt) and the Epic Gameshow Experience at Elite Games.

Educational enrichment included a tour of the Charleston Southern University campus with Associate Athletic Director Betty Palmer and a presentation by Officer Michael Rice and Amanda Perry, Esq. The presentation was a continuation of a mock trial activity that took place last summer.

“I had an opportunity to work with [the Game Changers] last summer during a mock trial program. I was thoroughly impressed by their willingness to get involved, ask thoughtful questions and really put in the work that was necessary to make the mock trial a success. Last fall, I had the privilege to assist Officer Rice and Coach Johnson with an educational presentation… The kids asked poignant questions that were applicable to their lives, and hopefully they will carry this information with them into the future. I was honored to be a part of this program because these children are leaders of tomorrow.”

– Amanda Perry, Esq.

The presentation featured law enforcement scenarios constructed by Officer Rice, and Amanda gave examples of legal action that may result from each of the scenarios. Our Game Changers were certainly engaged. We may have a few future attorneys and officers on our hands!

“I wanted these young men and women to leave with a better understanding of policing with an emphasis on why we do what we do. The overall goal for me is to bridge the gap of understanding between law enforcement and the communities we serve, and that effort starts with our youth… The Game Changers were engaged in topics and discussion and were eager to ask questions regarding my career. Not every day a child gets the opportunity to ask numerous questions to a police officer. I was happy to provide them with that opportunity.”

– Officer Rice, Mount Pleasant Police Department

Our Game Changers ended the season with a carefree afternoon at SkyZone—complete with lunch, ice cream, and surprise holiday gifts from our Teen Advisory Council.

“All activities from the start of the Fall to the last fieldtrip before winter break have been very informative and enjoyable for the Game Changers. It has allowed them the opportunity to sharpen their golf games on the golf course as well as learn real life skills from a variety of enrichment speakers. …And our Teen Advisory Council did an awesome job selecting different Christmas gifts for the Game Changers. They were very thankful!”

– Coach Lerone Johnson, Director of Special Programs | First Tee – Greater Charleston

Want to get involved with our Game Changers in 2023? Email Coach Johnson to explore opportunities.

Help Us Celebrate 15 Years of Building Game Changers

January 3, 2023 | Chapter News

2022 was a spectacular year! We served 17,975 children (more than ever before) at eight local golf courses, 35 schools, and 14 community partner locations. We distributed 44 sets of clubs and helped kids play more than 2,000 free rounds of golf. We also gave away $10,500 to First Tee program alumni who are pursuing secondary education, and we rounded out the year with the Barbara A. Douglas and Dr. William J. Powell Diversity Award.

And there’s even more to celebrate in 2023… It’s our 15th anniversary! We’ve come a long way since 2008. We served 132 kids that year. This year, we hope to reach more than 18,000.

Our programming wouldn’t be where it is today without generous community support, and we hope you will help us keep the party going all year long by joining us for a happy hour or playday event. Our first play opportunity will be the Mini Mentor Cup on Sunday, January 29th. Happy hour dates to follow. Subscribe to our monthly newsletter for updates.

Stay tuned for event details, and we look forward to seeing you soon. Happy New Year, First Tee Family!

Mini Mentor Cup Tournament at Charleston Fun Park

Join us for our first-ever mini golf tournament!

Sunday, January 29th
11:30-3:00pm
Charleston Fun Park
3255 N Hwy 17 Mt. Pleasant

Tournament Format: Adult/child pairs will play best ball. Both teammates will play each hole. The team will record the best score. Each team is required to use at least four of the junior participant’s scores.

Teams: A child can team up with any adult (a parent, grandparent, neighbor, friend, coach or mentor). If your child does not have a teammate, please email [email protected]. We have volunteers on stand-by who would love to play!

Rain Date: Sunday, February 5th

Cost: Tournament entry is $10 per pair, and financial aid is available as needed. Please email [email protected] to learn more about financial assistance.

Registration Deadline: Sunday, January 22nd (however, space is limited and may fill up before the deadline)

Presented By:

Register Your Team

We are no longer accepting registrations as the event is full. If you would like to add your name to the waitlist, please email Program Director, Meghan Taylor.

New, Age-Based Curriculum Launching Spring 2023

December 27, 2022 | Chapter News

This spring all First Tee chapters across the country will modernize their Golf & Life Skills Programs to better meet the needs of kids and teens. This transformation will match the way nearly all other youth sports and programs are arranged as well as meet the surveyed preference of kids and their parents to keep participants in groups of a similar age.

While we are excited about this change, we realize that parents and program participants may have questions, which is why we created the following FAQs with the help of First Tee – Greater Charleston coaches and parents.

Age-Based Curriculum FAQs

Why move to age-based programming?

  • Extensive research and feedback from participants and parents consistently show that age-appropriate programming will increase both engagement and retention of kids, especially older youth.
  • Registration will be simpler as parents are familiar with age-based as most sports and activities are set up this way.
  • As participants stay with us longer, they will be eligible for more life-changing experiences and opportunities including college scholarships and national academies.
  • The switch will allow for kids to learn with kids their own age and progress with them. Friends can learn and grow up with their friends.

What are the age groups?

  • 5-6
  • 7-9
  • 10-11
  • 12-13
  • 14+

What happens if my child ages up during the season?

  • The age a child is on the first day of any session will dictate what class they sign up for that season.
  • If a child has a birthday in the middle of a session that qualifies them for a new group, they will remain in the current class until the next session. For example, a child turning 10 in the middle of a session will remain in the 7–9-year-old class.

How will age-based classes affect current level of progression?

  • Kids no longer complete assessments to move into a new level. Once they reach the new age group, they will automatically move into the next age group.
  • Progression will be measured through a new badge system, estimated to launch in 2024.
  • First Tee Headquarters is currently in the development phase for a digital badging system to keep track of participant progression.

How will more advanced players be taught in a class with those who are just beginning to learn the game?

  • Especially during the first few seasons as we navigate this age-based transition, classes will remain small to best instruct all participants.
  • Classes will also be split up into smaller groups for certain activities to better educate all kids.
  • The Life Skills Curriculum has been refreshed so there will be new information for both new and returning participants.

Will class duration change?

All classes will still be 8-weeks long. Class times may change slightly, based on your child’s age:

  • 5–6-year-olds: 45 minutes per week
  • 7–9-year-olds: 1 hour per week
  • 10–11-year-olds: 1 hour per week
  • 12–13-year-olds: 1.25 hours per week
  • 14–18-year-olds: 1.5 hours per week

Will the lottery system change?

  • We have reviewed age group data at all program locations. This data will dictate program schedules for 2023.
  • For at least the first season of age-based programs (Spring 2023), all participants will take part in the lottery to create the fairest system of registration.

Will there be an exception for siblings of different ages to be in the same group if they are at the same skill level?

  • No, we will adhere to the age of every participant to enhance program engagement. Accommodations will not be made for siblings.
  • The curriculum is designed for the specific age groups, and we want to ensure that all children receive a curriculum that is developmentally appropriate.

Contact Us to Learn More

We hope these FAQs have helped to address some of the more common questions about age-based curriculum. If additional questions arise, please contact our Program Director, Meghan Taylor, for assistance.

First Tee – Greater Charleston Participant Spotlight: Meet Florence

December 5, 2022 | Participant Spotlight

We recently interviewed 10 year-old program participant Florence to learn more about her move from Washington DC and what she loves most about First Tee. Here’s what she had to say…

How long have you been involved with First Tee?

Florence: I’ve been playing golf my whole life. I’ve had little kits since I was one or two, but I’ve been playing with the First Tee for about four or five years. 

So you started with First Tee in DC before coming to Charleston?

Florence: Yes.

That’s quite a move! How did it make you feel?

Florence: It was a really big move, and I didn’t like it at first.

What do you like most about First Tee?

Florence: What I like most about First Tee is that they don’t just teach you how to play good golf; they teach you proper manners and how to act in situations.

Is First Tee – Greater Charleston different than First Tee – Greater Washington?

Florence: The accents are different… [At this point Florence delighted us with her best impression of a Southern accent, which we unfortunately did not catch on camera.]

Coach Charlie and Coach Chuck tell me that you’re a great golfer! How does that make you feel?

Florence: If someone says that I’m a good golfer, it makes me feel really proud because I’ve worked hard all of my life to achieve that. 

First Tee focuses on some important core values (honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, courtesy and judgment)… Can you think of a time when one of those values helped you accomplish a goal? 

Florence: I recently went to the CJ Cup with my dad and his friend, Mr. Russ. I used respect by being the only one asking for just a high five instead of asking for things. 

That’s awesome! I’m sure you impressed the pros..

Florence: Ooh! I got several people’s signatures there! …Shane Lowry, Collin Marikawa, and Rory McIlroy (aka the world’s best golfer).

Aside from golf, what do you like to do and/or who do you like to spend time with?

Florence: Aside from golf, I really like to spend time with my dog and to horse ride, but we’re having trouble finding a pony for me to ride down here. …But we are going to a hunt club this weekend, and I’ll get to ride there!

Do you think you’ll keep playing golf?

Florence: I think I’ll continue to play golf because it’s a great way to spend time outside and get fresh air. 

At First Tee – Greater Charleston, we’re teaching more than golf. We want to help kids build confidence and resilience that are applicable to all aspects of life. Email [email protected] to learn more about ways to get involved.

First Tee – Greater Charleston Honored for Commitment to Diversity

December 1, 2022 | Press Release

Program Update January 1, 2024: The Game Changers Immersion Program is now called Pathfinder Immersion Program. Learn more about the switch and our vision for Pathfinders here.

Charleston, SC–First Tee – Greater Charleston (FTGC) stepped into the national spotlight at First Tee Network Summit in Dallas, Texas last month as a recipient of the Barbara A. Douglas and Dr. William J. Powell Diversity Award. The award, presented by First Tee Headquarters (St. Augustine, FL) and The Toro Company (Bloomington, MN), recognizes outstanding leadership and commitment to promote ethnic diversity within local golf communities and the First Tee Network at large. Out of 150+ First Tee chapters, FTGC was one of two to receive this honor.

The Diversity Award is a relatively new addition to Network Summit, a bi-annual meeting of representatives from First Tee chapters around the world. It is named for Barbara A. Douglas, the first minority chairman of the United States Golf Association, and Dr. William J Powell, the first and only African American to design, build, own and operate his own golf course (Clearview Golf Club).

FTGC was nominated for the award based on geographic and financial accessibility of programming. The local 501(c)3 offers golf and life skills curriculum at 8 courses and 35 schools, 60% of which are Title I. 97% of children served receive programming free of charge. Additionally, FTGC impressed the award selection committee by pioneering a new immersion program for middle and high school students that includes STEAM curriculum, transportation, and meals in addition to golf instruction.

Staff members and stakeholders are floored by the award, but Executive Director Bucky Dudley says the work is just beginning…

“The Barbara A. Douglas and Dr. William J. Powell Diversity Award is a uniquely special honor. It’s wonderful to receive validation that we are on the right track, but the work doesn’t end here. Inclusion is not a destination. It’s a journey, and the way is paved with persistent invitations.” 

Established in 2008, First Tee – Greater Charleston serves young people, ages 5-18, from all walks of life. The chapter offers on-course, in-school, and community programs to teach life skills through the game of golf to more than 17,000 children each year in Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester counties. 

Email [email protected] to learn more about ways to get involved.

Judson McNeil, President of The Toro Foundation; Bucky Dudley, Executive Director of First Tee – Greater Charleston; Kharynton Beggs, First Tee Alumna; Coach Lerone Johnson, Director of Special Programs; Kendall Flock, Director of Marketing and Communications; Russ Playford, Board Treasurer

Coach Johnson Speaks with Golf Today About Game Changers Immersion Program

November 8, 2022 | Program Spotlight

Coach Johnson recently spoke with Golf Today hosts Matt Adams and Damon Hack about the USGA IDEA Grant and how we’re using that funding to expand our Game Changers Immersion Program. The interview, which aired live November 1st, shed some light on what it’s like to expose young people to enrichment opportunities on the golf course and beyond.

First Tee Game Changers Play Port City Golf Club Fall Classic Amateur Tournament at Charleston Municipal

Photo courtesy of Toby Jenkins | Isaiah Myers (far left); Macio Jacobs Sr. (left); Josiah Myers (right); and Eduardo Curry Jr. (far right) pose with teammates at the 2nd Annual Fall Classic Amateur Golf Tournament

October 27, 2022 | Participant Spotlight

First Tee Game Changers Isaiah and Josiah Myers attended Port City Golf Club’s Fall Classic Amateur Golf Tournament at Charleston Municipal Golf Course on Saturday, October 22nd. Accompanied by mentor and friend Eduardo Curry Jr., the brothers played 9 holes in a competitive youth event ahead of adult participants.

Isaiah (age 12) started strong, hitting well off of the tee box on the first hole and putting skillfully on the green. Josiah (age 13) got off to a slower start, but as the day heated up so did his game. We’re proud to have both of these fine young men representing us in the community!

When asked how they liked participating in the tournament, Isaiah and Josiah expressed sincere appreciation for the chance to play. Thank you to Macio Jacobs Sr., President of Port City Golf Club for providing the opportunity and to Eduardo for accompanying!

Eduardo is a mentor and School Engagement Program Manager for Charleston Promise Neighborhood, a local nonprofit working to improve academic, health, and social outcomes for underserved youth. Visit charlestonpromise.org to learn more. He also serves on a nominations task force for our Game Changers Immersion Program.

Isaiah and Josiah are both second-year Game Changers, and they are part of our original immersion program class (Class of 2028). They meet with First Tee coaches Monday-Friday each summer and on Saturdays during the school year for on-course instruction and off-course enrichment activities.

We add a new class of Game Changers each summer (rising 6th graders), and we intend to offer year-round support to all immersion program participants through high school graduation. Email [email protected] to learn more about ways to get involved!

Kharynton Beggs Speaks with Golf Today About Congaree Global Golf Initiative and First Tee Experiences

October 20, 2022 | Participant Spotlight

The Congaree Golf Club is hosting the CJ Cup October 20-23, and Golf Today is shining some well-deserved light on their philanthropic mission, the Congaree Global Golf Initiative (CGGI). The above interview features CGGI and First Tee – Greater Charleston alumna Kharynton Beggs.

In the interview, Khraynton shares personal struggles with doubt in the wake of her father’s passing (2016) and a taxing back injury. A gifted golfer, Kharynton was nearly ready to give up on competitive play her junior year of high school, but with CGGI and First Tee support, she was able to get back in the game. She now plays at Oglethorpe University and describes the experience as “life-changing.”

Kharynton represented First Tee – Greater Charleston in the 2018 PURE Insurance Championship at Pebble Beach. When Golf Today hosts praised her for a challenging par 3 on the 17th hole, she offered this advice… “Don’t underestimate the wind.”

The First Tee Family is SO PROUD of Kharynton, and we know that she will accomplish great things in the “real world” when she graduates from Oglethorpe next spring!

USGA IDEA Grant is Helping First Tee – Greater Charleston Build Game Changers

October 19, 2022 | Press Release

In recognition of First Tee’s 25th anniversary, The United States Golf Association has awarded IDEA grants to 25 of the 150+ First Tee chapters across America, including First Tee – Greater Charleston. 

The IDEA Grant delivers direct funding to community-based programs that break down barriers to participation in golf and expand access to First Tee character-building curriculum. This year, 25 chapters were awarded funds to provide transportation, hire diverse coaches, train volunteers and build programs in diverse communities. First Tee – Greater Charleston received a $10,000 IDEA grant to expand its Game Changers Immersion Program, a needs-based golf and STEAM initiative that launched in 2021. 

“This year’s IDEA grants are the latest milestone that reflect significant progress made to date in partnership with First Tee,” said Mike Whan, CEO of the USGA. “The best way to introduce youth to the game is by meeting them where they are in their communities, and we are going to continue to drive resources toward the local level to ensure a more accessible and inclusive game for generations to come.” 

This is First Tee – Greater Charleston’s second year receiving the USGA IDEA Grant. The local 501(c)(3) received $10,000 in 2021 as seed money for the Game Changers Immersion Program. That investment, along with generous community support, sponsored eight rising 6th graders who now participate in year-round programming–a full-day camp Monday-Friday each summer and continued golf/enrichment on Saturdays throughout the school year. 

With continued community and USGA support, First Tee – Greater Charleston added eight new rising 6th graders in summer 2022 and hired a full-time staff member, Coach Lerone Johnson, to lead Game Changers and spearhead additional DEI efforts. 

Bucky Dudley, Executive Director of First Tee – Greater Charleston says, “The Game Changers program seamlessly incorporates STEAM enrichment activities, field trips, free meals, transportation, and mentoring to the foundation of our sport-based character education program. The positive response from families is a testament to the impact this program is making in the lives of young people in our community.“ 

Established in 2008, First Tee – Greater Charleston serves young people, ages 5-18, from all walks of life. In addition to the Game Changers Immersion Program, The chapter offers on-course, in-school, and community programs to teach life skills using the game of golf and its inherent values to more than 17,000 children each year in Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester counties. 97% of the families participating in FTGC programs do so through full scholarships graciously supported by local individuals and businesses. FTGC has also partnered with local courses to make free rounds of golf available to all Charleston Area youth, regardless of program enrollment.

Email [email protected] to learn more about ways to get involved.

Enter for a Chance to Win a Palmetto Freedom Fest VIP Package

Did you know that First Tee – Greater Charleston offers program scholarships to all active and retired military families? It’s a small way to say thank you to those who have served, and generous community support makes that possible.

Folds of Honor, a nonprofit that provides educational scholarships to spouses and children of service members who have fallen or been disabled while in the United States Armed Forces, likes what we’re doing. To help us serve as many families as possible, they have generously shared two VIP tickets to Palmetto Freedom Fest on November 4th and 5th, and we’re raffling those off to some lucky winner!

Raffle closes at 3:00pm October 24, 2022. Keep scrolling to buy-in!

Don’t want to take a chance in the raffle? Purchase VIP tickets to support Folds of Honor!

VIP Package Details

2 Tickets for VIP Freedom Fest Lawn Party Featuring Lauren Hall and Edwin McCain
Friday, November 4th | 6:00p
Credit One Stadium Lawn, Daniel Island SC

2 Tickets for 2nd Annual Palmetto Freedom Fest Featuring Lee Brice and Big & Rich
Saturday, November 5th | 7:30p
Credit One Stadium, Daniel Island SC

Private Transportation to and from BOTH Events Provided by Coastal Limo
Friday, November 4th & Saturday, November 5th

Every Raffle Ticket Helps

You must be 18 years or older to enter the Palmetto Freedom Fest VIP Package Raffle. Raffle closes at 3:00pm Monday, October 24, 2022. Winner will be notified via email. Failure to respond to email or phone call will result in forfeiture of prize. Raffle tickets cannot be refunded. Prize cannot be transferred or redeemed for cash value. No rainchecks. Transportation, pickup and drop-off location, must be approved by Coastal Limo before November 4, 2022. Additional terms and conditions may apply.

Thank You to Our Raffle Partners

Visit palmettostate.foldsofhonor.org to learn more about Folds of Honor and Palmetto Freedom Fest.

Join Charleston Beer Week for Round of Beers Tournament Benefitting First Tee – Greater Charleston

Presented by Bottles

Join your favorite breweries at Shadowmoss Golf and Country Club in West Ashley for the Charleston Beer Week: Round of Beers tournament! Tournament proceeds will help fund First Tee programs for Charleston area youth. Entry includes 18 holes, a “beer buffet,” two meals, custom tee gifts, and raffle prizes.

Tournament Details

4 Person Scramble | $600 Per Team
Benefitting First Tee – Greater Charleston
Shadowmoss Golf and Country Club
21 Dunvegan Drive, Charleston, SC 29414
Monday, November 7, 2022
11:30AM – Registration Opens
12:30PM – Shotgun Start

Please Note: You must be 21 or over to participate. Event is a rain or shine. There are no refunds. All proceeds will go to support First Tee – Greater Charleston.

First Tee – Greater Charleston is a 501(c)3 youth development nonprofit that serves Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester county children by providing character education programming through the game of golf.  They serve over 15,000 kids annually by breaking down barriers for children from all walks of life by providing programs, transportation, equipment, access to golf courses, and safe spaces.  All money raised for First Tee – Greater Charleston stays local and goes directly back into improving the lives of kids in the Charleston community.

Thank you for your support!

Tournament SOLD OUT! To join the wait list, please complete the registration and make payment. We will notify you if your team gets in and if you do not, we will refund your registration.

Round of Beers – Team Registration

WAIT LIST

The tournament is currently SOLD OUT! If you would like to join the wait list, please complete this form and make your payment. We will notify you if you get in and if you do not, we will refund your registration.
Team Captain Name(Required)
Player #2 Name
If you do not know, put TBD
Player #3 Name
If you do not know, put TBD
Player #4 Name
If you do not know, put TBD
Consent(Required)
If you do not get in the tournament, this amount will be refunded to you.

Tax Forms

Team Sponsors

Sponsoring a Round of Beers team? Click here to download a fillable receipt for your tax records.

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Donated Items

Donating an item for the tournament? Click here to download a fillable receipt for your tax records.

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