Welcome to First Tee Gulf Coast. We’re glad that you are interested in learning more about our program. By participating in our program, your child will be exposed to a curriculum that builds character and develops leadership skills while at the same time having fun learning the game of golf.
Our curriculum was developed by experts in the field of positive youth development through sports and is delivered by caring adults (coaches) who have been formally trained by First Tee.
At First Tee, golf and life skills are seamlessly incorporated into each experience. In addition to covering the fundamentals of the golf swing and the etiquette and rules of the game, a sample of the life skills includes: communication, self-management, goal setting, and overcoming challenges.
Q: Who can participate?
A: Boys and Girls ages 5-18.
Q: What equipment do I need?
A: If your child does have their own set of clubs, please bring them to every class. Children’s clubs, golf balls, and all learning equipment will be provided for those who need it. Appropriate clothing is required. Any type of tennis or basketball shoe will work in place of golf shoes. All shoes must be closed-toe. It is highly recommended that the participant wears a hat and sunscreen to protect them from the sun.
Q: What is First Tee’s Golf and Life Skills Experience?
A: First Tee’s Golf and Life Skills Experience is The First Tee’s hallmark program designed around teaching young people the game of golf, as well as helping them understand and ultimately develop the First Tee’s Core Values.
Q: Where are the classes offered?
A: First Tee Gulf Coast operates its Golf and Life Skills Experience Program at local golf courses in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, and Bay Counties in Florida and Baldwin County in Alabama.
Q: When are First Tee Gulf Coast classes offered?
A: First Tee Gulf Coast offers sessions of programs all year round; Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. We have lots of great events in between seasons, be sure to check out our calendar!
Q: How often do classes meet?
A: In the Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter sessions, classes meet once a week for an hour to two hours for ten weeks. Class times depend on participant levels.
Q: What can I expect when I show up to class?
A: Classes will have up to 20 participants and one or two trained The First Tee Coaches and/or Assistant Coaches.
Q: What is the cost of the program?
A: Participants have the opportunity of obtaining membership for $50, when they sign up. Target level classes are $100, ages 5-6, and meet for 9 weeks at an hour each meeting. PLAYER/Par level classes are $100-$150, ages 7+, and meet for 10 weeks at an hour and a half each meeting. First Tee Gulf Coast never turns a child away for an inability to pay. Financial Assistance is available; contact the office or a coach for more information.
Q: What if we can’t afford the program fee?
A: First Tee Gulf Coast offers financial assistance to those families that cannot afford the program fees. One of the objectives of First Tee Gulf Coast is to make the game of golf affordable and accessible to all. Please contact one of our office staff for more information.
Q: What is included in the annual membership?
A: The cost is $50 per year, with financial assistance available. Cardholders will receive area discounts (e.g., Edwin Watts and local golf courses), junior golf rates at program locations, discounted registration for First Tee Gulf Coast and The Greater Pensacola Junior Golf Association events and tournaments, and discounted rates at First Tee Gulf Coast Goofy Golf location.
Q: Is there a refund policy?
A: Refunds may be available and are handled on a case by case basis. Please contact one of our office staff for questions.
Q: What if there’s inclement weather?
A: In the event of inclement weather, First Tee Gulf Coast may decide to cancel class. If a class is canceled, you will receive an email or text prior to the start of class. The coaches at your location will communicate any make-up classes or extensions due to cancellation.
Q: Can my child miss classes?
A: Two of our Nine Core Values are responsibility and perseverance. We believe children learn best by example, and showing up for your class is an easy way to practice being responsible and honoring one’s commitments. Obviously, things do come up and people do take ill, schedule family vacations, etc., so we understand missing a class occasionally. When students know they are to miss a class, we ask that the student AND parents both notify the program director or coach at their location. Make-up classes will not be scheduled.
Q: What if I have two children participating in different levels? Is there any way I can group them together?
A: No, each certification level has a different curriculum. It’s important that each child is exposed to each level and progresses through the program at a comfortable pace.