According to Alexander Duque’s parents, our First Tee programs with Coach Chris Cupp, PGA have been the pathway to self-confidence and personal pride for him.
Having been born a preemie in 2015, Alexander had already overcome many adversities. In 2021, he survived a craniotomy from a head injury. “We are in a debt of gratitude for the love and care of the NICU Doctors at Baptist Hospital as well as the Surgical Doctors and staff at Nicklaus Children’s Hospitals,” said Leticia Castro, Alexander’s mother.
As a consequence of his medical history all doctors advised against Alexander playing contact sports. This was hard to hear. How were they to keep their child active and safe without sports? That is when his parents found First Tee with Coach Chris at CB Smith Park. It was an immediate perfect fit. Alexander was won over to golf on his first day when he met Coach Chris.
“Coach Chris brings a generous and welcoming spirit. This spirit is evidenced by Coach’s enthusiasm and love every time he leads a lesson or class,” said Jaz Duque, Alexander’s father.
Since joining First Tee, Alexander has found a good role model in Professional Golfer Rory McIlory. Alexander loves Rory and especially Rory’s St. Bernard Dog Golf Club Driver Head Cover. Through an online search, Alexander discovered that Rory has had a St. Bernard all his life. As soon as Alexander discovered Rory, he wanted his own set of golf clubs.
Now instead of only playing video games he also watches YouTube videos learning about Rory’s life, his training schedule and his golf stroke. Alexander is quite focused on copying Rory’s swing. When not in class, Alexander is adamant about teaching mom and dad how to play golf.
Visit our website to register for one of Coach Chris’ programs.