November 2025 – First Tee

Keeping kids safe: How SafeSport strengthens our commitment to youth

At First Tee, creating safe, supportive environments where young people can thrive is fundamental to everything we do. That’s why we follow the guidelines established by the U.S. Center for SafeSport, a critical framework that helps us protect the participants we serve.

The U.S. Center for SafeSport is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending all forms of abuse in sport. Its comprehensive approach includes:

Education for coaches, volunteers and administrators

Policies that define misconduct and establish reporting procedures

A centralized reporting system for investigating allegations of misconduct

The organization’s mission is straightforward: ensure that sports remain an enriching experience free from abuse and misconduct. While golf might look different from competitive team sports, the principles of SafeSport align with our mission of building character and life skills in young people.

We mandate background checks and SafeSport training for all First Tee coaches and staff because:

Protecting participants comes first. Young people deserve to learn and grow in environments where they feel safe, respected and valued. SafeSport training equips our staff and volunteers with the knowledge to create safe spaces and respond appropriately if concerns arise.

Prevention is our top priority. SafeSport’s emphasis on education helps our entire First Tee network understand what constitutes misconduct, recognize warning signs and know the proper steps for reporting concerns. This proactive approach is far more effective than reactive measures alone.

SafeSport helps us build trust with families. Through research in collaboration with The Harris Poll, we know parents show a strong preference for coaches who are trained background checked. Following SafeSport guidelines demonstrates our serious commitment to that responsibility and provides families with confidence that we’re taking every reasonable measure to keep young people safe.

We’re not just checking a box; we’re making an ongoing commitment that includes regular training and continuous improvement of our safety practices. By following SafeSport guidelines, we’re ensuring that every young person who walks into a First Tee Chapter can focus on what matters most: developing their skills and discovering their potential.

Support First Tee’s efforts to build Game Changers.

A commitment to service: Military veterans share why they volunteer at First Tee

For many veterans, the transition from military service to civilian life means finding new ways to serve their communities. At First Tee, coaches with military backgrounds bring unique perspectives shaped by years of discipline, leadership and dedication to something greater than themselves.

This Veterans Day, we spoke with three First Tee coaches who served in different branches of the military about their experiences, why service matters to them and what keeps them coming back to the course to mentor young people.

Coach Joshua Grantham, First Tee – Phoenix

Coach Joshua served in the U.S. Marine Corps from January 2002 to October 2008, achieving the title of Reconnaissance Marine. He helped to counter IEDs and capture high-value Al-Qaeda leaders in Iraq. He credits three Bible verses for driving his passion for service:

“For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But do not use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.” Galatians 5:13

“So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” John 13:34-35

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others.” Matthew 20:25

Coach Joshua began his journey with First Tee as a parent. “Once I received some training on the First Tee Building Blocks and Coaching Philosophy, I was hooked,” he said. “I have implemented many of the strategies in my own parenting with great success.”

His favorite moments on the golf course come when kids light up after hitting a great shot. “Ultimately, it is watching them shift their mindset from outcome to process, learning that they can accomplish anything,” he said.

Coach Devin Shaw, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast

Coach Devin served 12 years in the U.S. Army as a Unit Supply Specialist. He was responsible for ensuring soldiers had the equipment and resources needed to accomplish the mission. It was a role that required organization, accountability and a strong sense of service to others.

“Service is about purpose, sacrifice and being part of something greater than yourself,” he said. “The Army had a clear mission, and serving my country gave me a deep sense of fulfillment. I took great pride in being a soldier and in contributing to something that mattered beyond my own life.”

First Tee – Florida Gold Coast offers a golf program for veterans at Dyer Park, which was the original draw for Coach Devin. “The friendships and bonds I’ve formed through those programs have truly improved my quality of life. It gave me a sense of community again – something I really missed after leaving the military,” he said.

What keeps Coach Devin coming back to First Tee is getting to help new golfers experience the thrill of the perfect shot – and grow their confidence – one swing at a time.

Coach Steve Napier, First Tee – Greater Washington DC

Coach Steve spent 25 years as an Air Force intelligence officer, working at Air Force Special Operations Command and the Pentagon. The highlight of his career was being selected as Squadron Commander, leading over 210 personnel conducting various intelligence missions.

Coach Steve originally wanted to fly but found out he was too tall. “I learned there was much more to being in the Air Force — the camaraderie, the focus on mission, and as I progressed, mentoring the new airmen and officers on their life and career,” he said. It was his passion for mentorship that inspired him to join First Tee as a coach.

He was watching golf one day while stationed in Hawaii and saw a First Tee ad. “I didn’t know much about it, so I did some research and felt it was something I would like to be a part of, especially since I was getting close to retirement,” he said. He joined First Tee – Hawaii as a volunteer coach and later got involved with First Tee – Greater Washington DC.

For Coach Steve, it means a lot when kids and parents keep returning to First Tee, and he’s seen participants grow over the years. “I love seeing their progress as kids and golfers, and a few are playing in some junior golfer tournaments,” he said.

This Veterans Day, we’re grateful for coaches like Joshua, Devin, Steve and the hundreds of other veterans who volunteer at First Tee chapters across the country. Their continued service makes a lasting impact on the next generation. Learn more about volunteering at First Tee.

Actress, First Tee alumna Kathryn Newton to headline First Tee 2025 Drive Your Future Academy presented by John Deere

The annual female empowerment event will be making its Ponte Vedra Beach debut

Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. – (Nov. 6, 2025) – First Tee and John Deere will welcome 36 girls from across the country to the 2025 Drive Your Future Academy, a five-day leadership program created to help girls develop critical skills that will serve them in college and beyond. 

Known for her many movie and television roles, First Tee Ambassador Kathryn Newton will take part in a fireside chat. As an alumna of First Tee – Miami, she brings both a personal connection to the organization and a passion for empowering the next generation. Newton and other adult mentors will also join the girls for a golf outing at The Yards.

November 7, 2025: Attendees play golf at The Yards and take part in a workshop with a John Deere executive during the First Tee Drive Your Future Academy in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL.

From Nov. 6-10, female leaders from organizations like John Deere, CapTech, Accenture and Cisco will lead sessions including: 

Advocating for yourself and others 
Overcoming adverse situations 
Cultivating meaningful relationships 
Roadmap to successful mentorship 
Embracing self-awareness

The 36 teen participants will also lead a volunteer opportunity at the Salvation Army and explore historic downtown St. Augustine.

The event reinforces First Tee’s commitment to empowering girls through its programs, which are offered through 150 chapters across the country. Most First Tee Chapters provide dedicated programming for girls, intentionally inviting and engaging them in a variety of opportunities. The First Tee Drive Your Future Academy presented by John Deere is one of a full slate of teen participant events that are open to girls in the First Tee Network.   

“With our commitment to providing innovative solutions to our customers, John Deere is always looking ahead, and our support of the Drive Your Future Academy is no exception,” said Bridget Dusing, sponsorship and events marketing manager at John Deere. “We are proud to support First Tee and the opportunities they provide to help prepare the next generation of leaders.” 

The teens were selected for the Drive Your Future Academy through a national application process based on essays, letters of recommendation and involvement in First Tee and other activities.   

“The Drive Your Future Academy represents everything we believe about the power of investing in young women — when girls develop confidence, leadership skills and meaningful connections early, they don’t just succeed in golf, they transform entire industries and communities,” said Jennifer Weiler, senior vice president of network relations at First Tee. “We’re proud to partner with John Deere to create this transformative experience that equips these 36 young leaders with the tools and network they need to break barriers and drive change in whatever field they choose.”   

Since 2012, John Deere has supported First Tee, a youth development organization celebrating nearly three decades of teaching life skills and helping kids and teens build their strength of character through golf. 

First Tee, Golf Digest honor 2025 network award winners advancing youth through golf

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.

Addison Murphy brings heart, hustle and hope to Drive Your Future Academy

Addison Murphy’s grandpa first handed her a golf club when she was just 3. In addition to introducing her to the sport she loves, her family instilled other values that guide her way.

“If you want something, you have to work for it,” she said. “Things don’t just happen on their own. You have to show up and keep trying, even when it gets frustrating or doesn’t go the way you hoped.”

That philosophy has carried her through significant life transitions, including a move from Georgia to Pennsylvania in 2022. Starting fresh in a new city and school wasn’t easy, but Addison kept showing up and growing her community.

Though golf had always been part of Addison’s life, she didn’t begin playing seriously until age 13, when her mother discovered First Tee while searching for golf classes. Since joining First Tee – Greater Philadelphia, Addison has become one of the chapter’s most engaged participants, attending over 45 classes across seven locations in just the past year.

Her dedication has paid off both on and off the course – from Top 3 finishes at chapter tournaments to unique experiences, like serving as a standard bearer at the 2025 Truist Championship, Addison has made the most of her time with First Tee – Greater Philadelphia. Now she’s preparing to embark on a new adventure: attending the 2025 First Tee Drive Your Future Academy presented by John Deere.

At the five-day female-empowerment event held in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, Addison and her cohort will hear from accomplished female business leaders on topics like networking, building confidence and the importance of giving back.

Unleashing her potential

A high school sophomore, Addison has already demonstrated a passion for entrepreneurship. She completed First Tee – Greater Philadelphia’s Caddie Academy earlier this year, and she spoke at the chapter’s annual fundraising event, addressing a crowd of more than 150 donors.

Her service work spans multiple areas. Through her church youth group, she’s participated in local service projects and even traveled to the Dominican Republic to help build a house for a family in need. Her passion for animals led her to contribute over 200 hours to Rucker Dog Training in Georgia, helping foster and prepare therapy dogs for schools, community programs and law enforcement — work that earned her the AKC Canine & Me Community Achievement Award in 2022 and a certificate of appreciation from the Gainesville Police Department.

After moving to Pennsylvania, Addison didn’t let distance stop her community engagement. She launched “Addie Trains Puppers,” her own dog walking and training business.

‘Challenges can turn into growth’

As Addison prepares for the Drive Your Future Academy, she’s exploring multiple potential career paths, from business and architecture to music production. Whatever direction she ultimately chooses, her approach will likely remain the same: show up, work hard and keep pushing forward.

“Challenges can turn into growth if you don’t give up,” she said, reflecting on bunker struggles, big moves and the ongoing journey of becoming who she wants to be.

The Drive Your Future Academy will bring together exceptional young women from across the First Tee network for leadership development, career exploration and empowerment. For Addison Murphy, it’s another opportunity to grow, give back and represent what First Tee stands for: building game changers, both on the course and in life.