New to First Tee?

Our Mission:

To impact the lives of young people from all backgrounds by providing educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values and promote healthy choices through the game of golf.

At First Tee, we believe 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.

Our First Tee coaches seamlessly integrate the game of golf with a life skills curriculum to create active learning experiences that build inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience. As your child progresses through our programs, the activities and life lessons will help empower them to take on whatever comes their way next.

Flip through our parents’ guide to see the wide-ranging and ever-growing education, life, leadership and golf opportunities for participants.

WHAT is First Tee – Greater Seattle?

We are a youth development organization headquartered in Seattle and serving King and Snohomish counties through programs offered at local golf courses and schools. Our curriculum helps young people develop golf and life skills in a positive learning environment, and promotes a healthier community through responsibility and stewardship.

WHERE does programming take place?

We host class at 12 local golf facilities, and growing!

Visit our LOCATIONS page to see all the options.

We encourage you to visit and patronize each of these supporting facilities outside of regular program time, but please contact our office directly with questions about First Tee.

WHEN are classes offered?

Programs are offered year-round, with winter clinics in Jan/Feb and three primary class sessions: spring, summer & fall.

Please visit our Youth Registration page to view updated schedules.

What is the COST?

Everyone is invited to play in The First Tee, regardless of income level or financial means.

The full fee varies between $49 and $199 per season, depending on the duration, but you are welcome to pay an amount that best suits you in the upcoming season. During the registration process, you will have the opportunity to request financial aid for any percentage of your membership fee. We approve 100% of requests.

We want to make sure everyone has the opportunity to play and without financial burden. The option is yours each season. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

HOW do I enroll?

To sign up for the program, please visit the Youth Registration page, where you will find the schedule of upcoming sessions and registration dates.

Classes fill quickly, so mark your calendar for upcoming registration dates. Select the best available option, and if your first choice is not available, be sure to submit a waiting list request.

Once you have created an account, the process only takes a few minutes each subsequent season. Each participant may enroll in one class per season, but there are plenty of other opportunities for practice and play outside of scheduled class time.

What CLASS should we choose?

Choose a class based on your age level.

The TARGET level for those age 6 is offered in summer only.

MORE QUESTIONS:

What are the classes like?

Classes are organized in groups of 6-18 students, and are led by 2-5 staff coaches and volunteers (ideal ratio is 4 students to every 1 coach). Each class meets weekly with a duration of approximately 60-90 minutes, depending on the level and season (all winter classes are 1 hour). Education is “progressive” with Golf Skills and Life Skills seamlessly integrated into each activity.

Does my child need golf clubs?

No equipment? No problem! We have plenty on hand, and every player who doesn’t already own clubs gets one to keep. But if your child has his/her own clubs, you are encouraged to bring them.

Looking to purchase equipment? Check out THIS PAGE with some great options, including our seasonal JAB equipment sales, where you can purchase a starter set for as little as $15!

What should participants bring to class?

All equipment is provided, but it is important to come to class well-rested, nourished and wearing appropriate clothing. We spend the majority of class time outdoors, so proper footwear and outerwear is a necessity. Traditional golf attire is not required, although players are welcome to wear golf spikes, collared shirts, and slacks/pants. Most players will be comfortable in athletic clothing, including tennis shoes or even rain boots on wet days. No sandals, flip-flops or open-toed shoes are allowed.

What age and ability level does the program include?

All young people between the ages of 6 and 18 are encouraged to enroll, regardless of experience, skill, or maturity level. From there, each player will progress at his/her own pace.

There is no rush to advance through the program, but for those who are exceptionally committed and with a desire to learn and practice more outside of class, you will have the chance to advance to “plus” status for additional play and practice opportunities.

We also believe that participants of all abilities can progress through the levels successfully, so don’t worry about falling behind. The role of our coaches is to support each player in the development of new skills and in the pursuit of their goals.

What are the other benefits of First Tee Experience?

  • Complimentary play and practice opportunities.
  • Leadership programs beginning at age 13.
  • Chapter field trips, activities and special events, including (depending on annual calendar):
    • Newcastle Drive, Chip & Putt Clinic (June)
    • Pat Caso Family Scramble (June)
    • Emirates Youth Clinic at the Boeing Classic (August)
    • Collegiate Days with the UW and Seattle University (seasonal)
  • Learn from a qualified staff of trained and dedicated coaches
  • Ace-level privileges include the opportunity to play at private golf clubs with members
  • Top student athletes & scholars may be invited to apply for national college scholarships from First Tee, including the Nature Valley Pebble Beach Open and The Leadership Academy (all expense paid trip)
  • Confidence, Sportsmanship, Judgement, Integrity, Courtesy, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility, and an array of skills that will help you to be more successful in golf and life!

How do I CONTACT First Tee if I have more questions?

Just call us at 206-762-2334 or email us at [email protected].

Thanks for reading. See you at the course!