Reflecting on a Remarkable Year

This year was one of tremendous growth for First Tee of Tri-Cities as well as junior golf across the region. A total of 45 sessions and 135 classes were offered during spring, summer, and fall seasons. From Abingdon, VA to Johnson City, TN, our programs reached hundreds of young golfers, giving them opportunities to learn the game, build character, and connect with peers. In total, 378 roster spots were filled by 189 participants, with strong representation across all age groups.

None of this would have been possible without our incredible coaching team: Adam, James, Jenny, Chris, and Corey. Their leadership and passion created meaningful experiences for every student, whether it was a first swing or a breakthrough moment. Our partner facilities deserve a big round of applause for donating their resources to advance the mission of First Tee.

Thank you to every parent, student, and supporter who made this year such a success, and we look forward to building on this momentum in 2026! Registration will open in February.

Balanced Start: Strong Foundations in Golf and Life

One of the most important fundamentals we teach at First Tee is the Balanced Start. Just as every great golf swing begins with a steady stance, every young player’s journey starts with learning how to stand tall, grounded, and ready.

Balance is more than physical — it’s about confidence, focus, and the ability to prepare for what comes next. By practicing a balanced start, our students learn that success in golf, and in life, begins with stability and intention.

Throughout the year, coaches have emphasized this principle, helping students understand how proper posture and alignment set the stage for consistent swings. Parents often notice the difference too. Students who practice balance on the course carry that same awareness into school, sports, and everyday activities. It’s a reminder that golf is not just about hitting the ball, but about building habits that last a lifetime.

As we look ahead, a Balanced Start will continue to be a cornerstone of our curriculum. Whether your child is stepping onto the tee for the first time or preparing for competition, this fundamental ensures they begin each shot and each challenge with confidence.

On a crisp fall afternoon at Pine Oaks, four Tri-Cities PGA Professionals—Cody Weems, Adam Dean, Bryan Bentley, and Jeremy Beachner—set out on a bold mission: shoot under 50 in a single round to raise funds for First Tee. The math was simple but daunting: 14 birdies and 4 eagles. Each stroke under par was worth approximately $250, thanks to nearly 100 generous pledges and donations.

The team came out swinging, carding three birdies and an eagle in the first four holes. But the uphill par-3 threw a curveball, and a par felt like a setback. Undeterred, they bounced back with an eagle on the next par-5 and birdied their way through the rest of the front nine—posting a scorching 25.

To break 50, they’d need to go even lower on the back. A birdie on 10 kept the momentum alive, and an eagle on 11 was within reach. But after a tough approach, they faced a 15-foot eagle putt. All four missed. Birdie—still good, but not enough.

Then came the rally. Birdies on 12 and 13. An eagle on 14. Another birdie on 15. At the drivable par-4 16th, a shot just short of the green set up a dramatic 25-foot uphill putt—drained for eagle.

Two holes to go. On 17, they nearly drove the green and needed a chip-in for eagle. A lip-out crushed that hope. At 18, only a hole-in-one would do. All four tee shots were on line, but none found the cup. A final par sealed their score: 20-under 51.

They didn’t break 50—but they broke expectations. The team has so far raised thousands for First Tee, inspiring youth and community support with every swing.

There's still time to donate to a great cause! If you're feeling generous this holiday season, please follow the link below and make a donation of any amount.



Thank you for supporting First Tee and helping us build game-changers on and off the course!

Life Skills: Meeting & 
Greeting With A-L-R

At First Tee, golf is more than swings and scores — it’s about character and connection. One of the key fundamentals we emphasize is Meeting and Greeting with ALR — Ask, Listen, Respond. This simple but powerful routine teaches students how to engage respectfully with coaches, teammates, and even opponents.

By asking questions, listening carefully, and responding thoughtfully, our young golfers learn that communication is the foundation of both strong relationships and effective teamwork.

Throughout the season, coaches have modeled ALR in every class, encouraging students to practice eye contact, active listening, and clear responses. Parents often notice how these skills extend beyond the course: children who practice ALR show greater confidence in school, stronger friendships, and a deeper sense of respect for others.

It’s a reminder that golf is not just about playing the game — it’s about learning life skills that last far beyond the fairway.