The First Tee – Lakeland uses golf to teach youth life lessons and leadership skills. Our sessions include a fun, group setting for youth ages 7 to 17 regardless of background or previous experience. Teaming up with experts in positive youth development, the First Tee helps youth become good golfers and even better people.

A Youth Program Unlike Any Other

The First Tee emphasizes Core Values: honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, courtesy and judgment. Through golf and our core values, your kids and teens will learn life skills like:

  • Making proper introductions
  • Managing emotions
  • Resolving conflicts
  • Setting up step-by-step goals
  • Planning for the future
  • Appreciating diversity

Advancing through the Program

From age 7 through 17, youth progress through different levels by demonstrating the First Tee Nine Core Values, life and golf skills as well as passing an assessment. All participants regardless of age start at the PLAYer level. The pinnacle of the First Tee is completing Ace.

  • PLAYer (7-9) – Tee up for the first time and learn the game of golf and The First Tee’s Code of Conduct.
  • Par (10-11) – Focus on interpersonal and self-management skills on and off the course.
  • Birdie (12-13) – Emphasis on setting goals and making them a reality.
  • Eagle (14+) – Learn resilience, conflict resolution, and future planning.

Ask us about scholarships for financial need.