First Tee Week: May 19-25

Dear Coach Darren, 

Thea
First Tee – Central Coast Participant

Dear Coach Darren, 

Your energy and the way you make every session fun while still pushing us to get better has made such a difference for me.  I’ve learned more than just golf from you – I’ve learned how to stay positive and give my best no matter what.

Dear Coach Jim,

Your calm and thoughtful approach has helped me slow down, focus, and really grow not just in my game, but as a person.

I’m lucky to have had you both as coaches.  You’ve shaped how I see the game and myself beyond it, and I’ll always be grateful for that.

– Bo

Dear Master Coach Billy Gibbs!

I want to thank you for being not only an AMAZING coach, but for also being an outgoing, supportive, and positive person in my life. The list of all great things that you are could go on! You have touched the lives of so many – and continue to do so (including my family). I am so fortunate to have you in my life. The life long skills you have taught me through the First Tee program and the Leadership Academies you helped me attend have helped shape me into the person I am today. You taught me not only the game of golf, but the value of our First Tee family and being able to give back to the kids just as you have done for us growing up in the program. I am very grateful to have you as a coach and to have worked alongside you. Thank you again for all that you do for our Central Coast Chapter and for being a wonderful and supportive coach and friend.

-Katie

Dear Coach Billy:

Thank you for helping me become my best self both on and off the course! You made me a better golfer and a better person by challenging me with drills to help me grow and supporting me in giving back to my community! Thank you for the values and lessons you taught me, which prepared me for my college journey and beyond as I pursue a career in medicine!

-Claire

Dear Coach Jenae, 

You taught me to always dream big and go after whatever I dreamed of. No matter the circumstance I was in, you always supported my dreams of becoming an LPGA Tour player. You’ve spoken highly of me to people when I’m not in the room, and you do the same when I am there. I know when I hear “Najae Butler” very loudly that it’s you, one of my biggest supporters. And for that and more, I’m forever grateful and will be your biggest supporter too. 

Najae Butler
First Tee – Metro Atlanta alumna 

Dear Ken,

Thank you for standing by me for the last 25 years. Through thick and thin, agony defeat and success. The stubbornness and tenacity you instilled in me is one of the big factors in why I am so successful now.

To continued success in the future.

Stephan Jaeger
PGA TOUR Professional

Dear Coach Brown, 

You taught me how to not only keep my cool on the course, but how to apply these values off of the golf course. You created an inclusive and welcoming environment for me prior to my freshman year and provided me with opportunities to gain lifelong friends. I have loved getting to know you these past two years and look forward to the rest of high school golf with you as my coach. 

Thank you so much,
Samuel Freeman
First Tee – Greater Richmond participant 

Dear Coach Terry,  

Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for your countless hours invested in me. Thank you for lighting my spark in my bigger purpose for life. Because of you I became my true self. Because of you I bought into every possibility for my future. Your guidance on and off the course helped transform me into a forever game changer. Because of you I will spend my life giving back to the future of First Tee, the future of golf, the future of the world. 

“Put a golf club in a child’s hand and watch them grow.” 

 Look at me, Coach T. I’m all grown up now, thanks to you. 

Cameryn Smith
First Tee – Coastal Carolinas alumna 

Dear Eduardito,

Thank you for always believing in me. For letting me understand everyone has their own unique swing and allowing me to trust in myself and the amount of work we put in throughout the years.

Love you, buddy!

Rafael Campos
PGA TOUR Professional

Dear Coach Harry & Cole, 

You taught me how to be an authentic Black man and golfer. Your example shaped my entire life. Not only did you deepen my understanding of the game, you prepared me for life! I wouldn’t be who I am today without you!  

Kevin B. Banks Jr.
First Tee – Greater Chicago alumnus  

Dear Coach Steve, 

You taught me more than just the game of golf but how to face challenges with resilience, patience and determination. Whether it was navigating a tough round or confronting personal obstacles, you have helped me see that every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow. Thank you for being a coach who mentors not just athletes but the person behind the game. 

Kavya Shah
First Tee – Howard County participant