About First Tee

First Tee – Broward was founded in 2003 as one of the early chapters in Florida. Over the years, the chapter has reached thousands of participants and partnered with various youth development organizations such as Boys and Girls Clubs, Police Athletic Leagues, HANDY, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, The Crockett Foundation, YMCA, ARC and Mission United. We also partner with area golf courses to offer programming in all areas of Broward County.

“So many lessons are learned through the game of golf,” said Greg Thompson, President of First Tee – Broward. “We welcome all young people and veterans of Broward County to join us to learn about the game of golf and the First Tee Life Skills Experience that teaches core values that include: Respect, Responsibility, Perseverance and Honesty.”

The First Tee School Program has been implemented in over 40 Broward elementary schools. Over 700 schools in the state of Florida offer the First Tee School Program to their students. Our chapter’s territory includes all of Broward County which encompasses over 150,000 elementary age school students.

“We are very grateful for the support of many leading companies, clubs and organizations in Broward County that help us expand our chapter’s mission and programs,” said Carl Mistretta, CEO of First Tee – Broward. “Partners include Florida Blue, QTS, Northern Trust, Coral Ridge Country Club, The Club at Weston Hills and PGA Tour Superstore, as their support allows us to grow our programs throughout the county and reach many more deserving young people and veterans.”

First Tee – Broward is one of over 150 chapters worldwide and one of 15 chapters in the state of Florida. First Tee believes in developing experiences that are just as fun as they are meaningful, where kids feel excited to grow, safe to fail, and better equipped for whatever comes their way next. Certified First Tee Coaches teach programs, many of whom are PGA and LPGA professionals.  Typically, we schedule a series of 6, once weekly, 1-hour sessions, with a school or youth development organization. We also offer Saturday and weekday after-school classes that are open to the public. Each session includes a First Tee Key Commitment incorporated into golf instruction. Our Key Commitments are Pursuing Goals, Growing through Challenge, Collaborating with Others, Building a Positive Self-Identity, and Using Good Judgment.