One of the first lessons young golfers are shown in the First Tee program is how to meet people.

“A proper handshake and looking someone in the eye is one of the first life skills we want youngsters to learn,” said Jared Crane, the program director for First Tee Upstate.”It is a valuable lesson  no matter what they grow up to do in life,” he added

The game of golf is built on rules, etiquette, norms and tradition. Translating those qualities to life off the course is what makes the First Tee different from other youth sports programs.

Crane grew up in Greenville and was a high school golfer at Wade Hampton. A Coker college graduate who after years in private business found his way back to Greenville and to golf.

“I’m looking forward to working with our programs and helping young golfers grow in the game and in life,” he said.

The First Tee in the Upstate has experienced almost explosive growth over recent years.

Last year almost 900 kids took part in programs at golf courses. 

Upstate schools participating in the physical education portion of the First Tee program reached around 70,00 youngsters.

 “We have so much going on and with the demand for our program we need to keep training coaches and volunteers and finding ways to support the program,” he said.

The First Tee program is moderately priced and has some financial aid available if needed.

Eleven locations in the Upstate will begin spring programming for young golfers this month.

The organization’s website at http://www.firstteeupstate.org has registration information and locations for spring sessions.

While the First Tee program is for kids, grown ups can become volunteers and coaches. 

They also can help support the mission by supporting a series of fund raising events.

The biggest event held by The First Tee is the annual Kentucky Derby Party. This year the event will be held at Thornblade on May 3rd. Tickets are available on line. https://e.givesmart.com/events/GXd/

The growth of the First Tee has meant the need for funding keeps increasing,.

In addition to working with them main program, Crane is excited about the development of a special program for older First Tee golfers.

The recent opening of the PGA Tour Superstore in Greenville has created a new opportunity for the First Tee to partner with the organizations largest national sponsor.

The PGA Tour Superstore has been very supportive or our program, Tyler Emory, the general manager has been helping lead a class at the store for one of our advanced group,” said Crane.

This is the 25th year of the First Tee program in the Upstate. 

Crane is starting to see some of the first wave of First Tee students, who are now young business professionals in the Upstate coming back to see if they can help.

“It has been great to see the support we receive from some of the first First Tee golfers. They know what the program meant to their lives and support what the First Tee is doing ,” concluded Crane.