The First Tee of Columbus chapter is a non-profit junior golf program
committed to increasing the number of youth and minorities exposed to
the game of golf by providing an affordable place to learn and play the
game, a comfortable, welcoming environment to practice golf techniques,
and quality instruction to help increase the understanding of skills
such as confidence, sportsmanship, discipline and character.
As part of a collegiate organization, TFTC has a long-term partnership
with Columbus State Community College to help sustain the program and
promote education. TFTC chapter serves as a unique learning environment
for youth ages four to 18 by using golf to teach life skills. In such a
critical adolescence period of their lives, the program strives to
impact youth that may otherwise find less productive means to focus on
their well being. TFTC staff is committed to creating and maintaining a
diverse, educational and supportive program that promotes
self-discipline, honesty, integrity, motivation and excellence. In an
atmosphere where learning is exciting, youth are assisted in the process
of developing these traits through peer group-learning, course play,
range practice, PGA instructional clinics, motivational workshops,
tournament play, event exposure and educational components. Further,
youth develop a sense respect, acceptance and confidence by being
exposed to the etiquette expected on the golf course and the history of
a game that is by most, considered elite. The program gives the
opportunity to bring people of all ages, races and skill level together
to play a game, which has yet to be perfected, with dignity and grace.
The program enhances the lives of youth, and strives to deepen their
commitment by providing positive role models to teach them and a
positive atmosphere that welcomes their desire to learn. By helping to
strengthen that desire, TFTC program will encourage youth to succeed and
contribute to their own future as well as to society.
• Commitment to youth
• Access to course and range
• Affordability for all
• Well-rounded learning/educational facility
• Exposure and opportunity
• Diversity
• Building community relationships
• Building business relationships
• Strong relationships in the golf arena
Vision:
With its home course,
Bridgeview Golf Course & Driving Range , being centrally located in the
inner city, TFTC program is easily accessible to all. However, to reach
as many youth as possible, TFTC hopes to encourage other golf courses to
become affiliates to the program so more access is available for youth.
We'll strive to develop a more technologically advanced learning
facility. We will work to develop a well-rounded program that exposes
youth to all areas of the golf arena such as tournaments, media,
landscaping, teaching instruction, equipment sales and more. We will
continue to develop relationships with the neighborhood community and
local business community. To fund the program, TFTC will continue to
work with its board to seek financial resources for development.
Overall, it is TFTC's focus and responsibility to reach out to the youth
of its community to provide a platform that encourages learning and
produces success.
