National First Tee Academy

Mission Statement

"We're Coloring Lives"

The National First Tee Academy was created as a pinnacle among opportunities offered by First Tee Chapters nationwide. It is an experience for bright and talented young golfers to assemble in a state-of-the art facility designed by Jim Colbert and hosted by the Earl Woods National Youth Golf Academy at Kansas State University. Participants receive golf instruction from PGA professionals, Life Skills training from nationally recognized professionals, and Leadership Development from Kansas State University's outstanding Leadership Studies program. The National First Tee Academy has become a reality due to generous contributions from Mr. Fred Tattersall in honor of Dr. William Powell. The mission of the National First Tee Academy is to accomplish the following four goals for the participants:

• Improvement of the participants golf game both physically and mentally: The program utilizes the professional staff in improving the overall golf game of the participants with intensive daily instruction on practice facilities and continued guidance and instruction while playing on the golf course.



• Discovery of Leadership Skills: In golf, as in many other facets of life, individuals are called on to foster and use leadership skills. The First Tee National Academy seeks to identify key areas of leadership and apply them to the game of golf in an effort to integrate success in life and golf as leaders. Upon completion of the academy, participants will sign a "Challenge to Commit" binding them to return to their local academy as a mentor to their fellow local participants. With the assistance of Academy Counselors, participants will develop a plan to implement some part of the instruction received at the National Academy and prepare a report for evaluation.



• Discovery of Educational Opportunities: Participants will be hosted on the campus of Kansas State University, reside in the residence halls and be mentored by college students who will serve as Academy Counselors. They will also have opportunities to utilize recreation facilities on the campus and gain a perspective of college life. In addition, as follow-up, contact will be maintained between Academy Counselors and participants in an effort to assist in their preparation for college.



• Life Skills for Everyday Life: The exemplary Life Skills curriculum has been designed as a integral part of The First Tee enabling participants to see and learn the correlation between the game of golf and the life skills one must possess to be successful in golf and everyday life.