Mission: Golf is the only sport that allows participants to engage with others of so many different backgrounds. It can be played for life. A less-skilled player can play a fair match against a highly skilled golfer via the GHIN handicap system. All juniors enrolled in The First Tee of Pittsburgh's programs will receive a GHIN handicap index, courtesy of the United States and Western Pennsylvania Golf Associations.
At our The First Tee facilities golfers of all financial, ethnic, age and gender backgrounds come together to enjoy this wonderful game. Friendship and connections are formed. Children are mentored by elders.
The First Tee of Pittsburgh was the recipient of Golf Digest's Junior Achievement Award as the best program in the country. We welcome all those who wish to be involved as participants, volunteers, patrons, and teachers.
The First Tee and its affiliates are sponsored by all major professional golf organizations, including the LPGA, PGA of America, PGA TOUR, USGA, and the Augusta National Golf Club. Former President George Bush serves as Honorary Chairman.
Target demographics: The First Tee of Pittsburgh is a registered nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization. All donations are tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law.
At The First Tee of Pittsburgh no child or group is ever turned away for inability to pay. In addition all equipment is provided, free of charge. Your contribution helps economically disadvantaged children ages 5-18 participate in our golf and life skill clinics. The First Tee’s program teaches core values inherent in the game of golf, that include confidence, respect, judgment, responsibility, courtesy, honesty, sportsmanship, integrity, and perseverance.
Programs: The first tee of pittsburgh operates the bob o'connor golf course in addition to the educational programs as discussed above.
I started out with the First Tee of Pittsburgh when I was 11 years old. At that time, I was just starting to learn the game of golf. Now, 4 years later, I shoot in the low to mid 70's on a regular basis. Not only has the First Tee made me a better golfer, it has also taught a variety of important life skills that I use in everyday life. These life skills have me a better person. The coaches at the First Tee are all fantastic people and have helped me tremendously throughout the years. Now, I am giving back to this wonderful program by volunteering and helping out whenever I can. I have nothing but positive things to say about the First Tee of Pittsburgh and I highly recommend to anyone looking to get into the game of golf.
My children participated in The First Tee clinics and league this year for the first time. They received so much from the experience, such as the opportunity to have someone shake their hand and say "hello, I'm happy to meet you". This may sound like a small thing, but in the world of a child, it is an experience that is lacking in today's culture. The values reinforcement, combined with the teaching of golf, was a perfect fit. My children enjoyed the events at Schenley, and already have learned so much about the game of golf, which I am sure will benefit them throughout their lives. They are anxious to continue with the program. and I cannot say enough good things about the staff and volunteers. Every single one of them modeled behavior that was beyond what I would expect from a volunteer. They were extremely professional, organized, knowledgeable, polite and enthusiastic. Thanks to all of them for their positive influence on my children, when it is so difficult to find good role models today.
The First Tee of Pittsburgh is a fantastic organization teaching life skills to our young people through the game of golf. The group also manages the Bob O'Connor Golf Course located in beautiful Schenley Park, which was recently awarded national Audubon certification. They do wonderful work to strengthen our children and continue to 'green' our city assets. I applaud them!
