Our Programs
Experiences are our greatest teacher. First Tee believes in developing the ones 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. Through our golf-based personal growth programs, we see kids build life and leadership skills that empower them in all areas of life, including school, friendships and eventually careers.
Delivered in partnership with schools and physical education teachers
19+ schools offering First Tee curriculum within the Albemarle County School District.
Focus on fun, movement, and basic golf concepts
Introducing golf in the classroom, where kids learn and play every day.
Life skills integrated into every activity
Our School Program brings golf and life skills directly into physical education classes, making the game accessible to students in a familiar environment. Through engaging activities and age-appropriate instruction, kids experience golf as fun and approachable while learning values like respect, responsibility, and perseverance.
Introductory golf experience
This open house concept acts as an introductory bridge that provides opportunities for First Tee’s communities and its partners to gain exposure to golf and our organization, while seamlessly gaining life skill education.
Designed for beginners with little to no prior golf experience
Access 2 Golf is typically a two-step series all about curiosity and trying new things, perfect for groups unsure of what golf can offer!
Life skills woven into fun, hands-on activities
A transitional opportunity that opens the door to exploring golf through First Tee.
Accessible and affordable for families
Creating an emotional connection to the game in a supportive, social environment.
Interpersonal skill-focused learning
Offered in five-week sessions throughout the year, this age-based program encourages peer-to-peer connection through shared interest in golf, mentorship from trained coaches and volunteers, and engaging activities for all skill levels.
Making it fun to play golf
First Tee – Virginia Blue Ridge’s AIM Program provides an exploratory and fun look into the game of golf, with a strong focus on social and interpersonal development.
Personal development
Brand new in 2026, the PAR Program is all about commitment, combining an intensified personal development curriculum, golf instruction, and age-appropriate supplemental activities to aid in participant growth and understanding.
Attention to process and outcome
Designed for ages 12 and up, PAR suits those looking to deepen their commitment to golf and life skill development, including benchmarking opportunities to track athletic and personal achievement throughout the program.
Ready to play the game
A deeper commitment with enhanced technical support and measurable progress.
Empower, Energize
Specifically crafted for girls ages 6 to 17, Girls Golf offers an environment where participants can dream big, with peers by their side and mentors leading the way.
Exercise, Engage
In partnership with the LPGA & USGA, Girls Golf is a unique experience about more than just the game of golf.
Enrich
This positive and engaging program helps young girls and teen golfers find their voice, identify their skills and talents, develop self-esteem, and celebrate their wins on and off the course through skill instruction, leadership development, and empowerment.
Personal growth and skill development on-course
For participants looking to engage in more player development opportunities, First Tee – Virginia Blue Ridge offers the chance to play in state-wide tournaments through the VSGA.
9- and 18-hole play opportunities
Serving as the Charlottesville Area Coordinator for the VSGA, we give players the chance to showcase their growth and confidence in their game and beyond.
Competitive golf landscape
Best suited for players who have committed to their golf skill development, VSGA tournaments provide a way to gain on-course experience with peers.
Advanced golf instruction and competitive readiness
ACE is First Tee’s highest-level program, designed for advanced participants ready to take their golf and life skills to the next level. Empowering teens to excel in golf and in life.
Leadership and community involvement
This program emphasizes goal-setting, leadership, and community engagement while refining technical skills for competitive play.
College and career preparation through life skills
ACE prepares teens for success beyond golf—college, careers, and life.
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Your involvement can directly impact the kids we serve and the skills they develop in First Tee. Get involved today and help give kids the tools that will last them a lifetime.
About Us
First Tee is a youth development organization that enables kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges. By seamlessly integrating the game of golf with a life skills curriculum, we create active learning experiences that build inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience that kids can carry to everything they do. We’re Building Game Changers through our junior golf programs.
2025 Sponsors
