Laura Colbert and David Friel (photo by Deb Melton)
David Friel
The First Tee is a nationwide nonprofit organization that teaches youth life lessons through the game of golf.
The First Tee was founded in 1997. Founding partners were the Professional Golf Association (PGA), the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA), the Masters, and the United States Golf Association (USGA). Since 1997, the First Tee has introduced golf and its values to 10.5 million participants, introduced the First Tee National School Program to more than 7,000 elementary schools, and increased diversity in golf participants.
The Tucson Chapter was founded in 2004 and serves between 1,100 and 1,200 kids each year. There are chapters throughout the United States and in select international locations. First Tee delivers life skills to young people (generally ages 5 through 17). Young people face many challenges in today’s world, and the nine core values of The First Tee: honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, courtesy, and judgment help them build the foundation for a productive and fulfilling life.
An independent research study confirmed that youth involved in The First Tee Life Skill Experience learn and use life skills on the golf course and transfer these skills to other areas of their lives. In fact, 100% of First Tee participants interviewed said they transferred life skills learned at The First Tee to school. Seventy-eight percent are transferring skills such as decision-making, setting goals, and managing their emotions from the golf course into the classroom, as well as other areas of their lives, including situations with friends, family, after-school activities, and jobs.
The study also revealed The First Tee Life Skills Experience’s ability to impart core values on youth. After participating in The First Tee for three years, 73% reported high confidence in their academic ability, and 82% felt confident in their social ability with peers. That is good for our country!
David Friel has been the QC First Tee of Tucson representative for the past two years and has delivered to the First Tee of Tucson thousands of golf balls (thanks to the generosity of Josh Wilks, the Pro Shop staff, and QC residents). In addition, thanks to the generosity of QC residents, hundreds of clubs, bags, clothing items, shoes, towels, and other golf equipment have been delivered to First Tee of Tucson.
To make an equipment donation, contact David Friel at 970-485-0999 or [email protected].
The First Tee of Tucson is a 501(c)(3) and accepts monetary, as well as equipment donations.