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.
