What Makes First Tee Different
First Tee believes every child should have access to safe, enjoyable, high quality, low cost programs that build confidence, character, and life skills. We proudly offer an all-inclusive, fun, affordable activity for kids ages 5 to 18 with robust financial aid available for anyone who needs it.
No equipment or experience needed, just a smile and positive attitude!
More than Just Golf Lessons for Kids
We use an age appropriate curriculum that seamlessly integrates fun and challenging activities, drills, and games. This unique approach keeps kids coming back every season, feeling excited to grow, safe to fail, and prepared to overcome adversity. We also offer many fun, exciting travel experiences, leadership opportunities through our Junior Advisory Board, and many other volunteer programs.
First Tee – Pittsburgh’s Main Facility in Schenley Park
Our home campus is located at the Arnold Palmer Learning Center at the Bob O’Connor Golf Course in Squirrel Hill. Our site boasts:
- A 9 hole public golf course featuring stunning views of University of Pittsburgh’s Cathedral of Learning and city skyline
- A 3 hole short course ideal for teaching beginners of all ages
- An outdoor, all grass short game area to work on putting, chipping, and pitching
- 2 state of the art indoor Trackman simulators that can be used during inclement weather or rented by the hour to hone your skills
- An indoor synthetic turf putting green and fitness area.
All First Tee – Pittsburgh Locations
Independent Research Study Shows Impact of First Tee on Young People
After three years in the program, youth at The First Tee chapters reported:
- Higher confidence in their ability to do well academically (73%)
- Increased confidence in their social skills with peers (82%)
- Credited the program for their ability to appreciate diversity (52%)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy golf clubs?
No! We provide clubs, bags, balls, and tees at no additional cost. Thanks to our generous community, we have high quality clubs of every size, weight, and hand orientation to make sure your child has everything they need during clinics.
What if my child or teen has never held a golf club or stepped foot on a golf course?
Great! We are here to make everyone feel welcome and help them develop the skills they need not just to enjoy this game, but develop the internal tools needed to succeed off the course too. Classes are based on age, not ability, so your child will be surrounded by peers of all skill levels who want to have fun.
What will my child learn in clinics that will make them a Game Changer?
While golf is the basis of the games we play and physical skills we learn, the main focus is helping kids learn to:
- Appreciate diversity
- Understand and manage emotions
- Resolve conflicts
- Set step-by-step goals
- Plan for the future
What should my child wear?
Since this is an athletic activity that is primarily outdoors, closed toed shoes/sneakers, hats, and sunscreen are strongly encouraged. Experience has taught us, tank tops, halters, jeans, overly baggie pants, and overly short shorts will not be comfortable, but we want you to come as you are.
How long do classes last?
We have 6-week sessions year round, both indoors and outdoors, at several facilities around Pittsburgh. Each session has 6 classes and each class lasts 1.5+ hours for kids 7-18 and 1 hour for ages 5-6.
How do I apply for a scholarship for my child?
Our registration form has a financial aid section. Simply fill it out, and once reviewed, we’ll let you know the level of scholarship we can provide.
What if my child or teen has been playing golf for a long time and has lots of experience?
Excellent! We have experienced coaches who will be able to find ways to challenge accomplished players while still helping beginner and intermediate level players improve their skills.
I’m still not convinced. Why should I sign my child up for First Tee – Pittsburgh?
Your child will learn golf, and more importantly, life skills designed to stay with them for life, help them feel more confident in and out of school, and become active, contributing members of their community. Your young person will also be immediately eligible to:
- Play golf on their own schedule at the Bob O’Connor Golf Course for just $1
- Take part in a variety of leadership opportunities within the organization
- Apply for a multitude of college scholarships
- Have access to internship and ready for work programming to get ahead of the game for career preparedness
- Participate in nearly unlimited local, regional, and national events and competitions
- Have a ton of fun and make new friends
Ok, my kid did First Tee and now loves golf, but playing golf is expensive. Now what?
We have the solution! Your First Tee participant can play as much golf as they want at the Bob O’Conner Golf Course for $1 per round! And thanks to our partners at Youth On Course, your child now has the opportunity to play at over 2,000 courses and counting, nationwide for $5 or less.
Access 2000+ Golf Courses for $1-5 with Youth On Course
We have partnered with a membership based organization that works with golf courses across the US, Canada, and Australia to make the game more accessible and let juniors play golf for $5 or less. Membership through the link below gives access for a discounted rate of $25/year (regularly $40). This ensures we are able to keep making golf a fun, affordable activity for kids.
