In this episode of On The First Tee, we sit down with Brandon Luna from First Tee headquarters, Senior Director of Alumni Engagement and Influencer Relations. Brandon shares insight into the national opportunities available for our teenage participants and highlights the powerful impact of First Tee ambassadors across the country.

We dive into how alumni stay connected to the mission, what it means to represent First Tee beyond the program, and the exciting pathways opening up for young people through leadership, service, and golf. This conversation shines a light on the reach of First Tee and the growing network of influencers helping shape the next generation.

Join hosts Michael Pius, PGA and Jared Crane for another Upstate Update as we walk through everything happening across First Tee — Upstate South Carolina.

Tune in for all things First Tee in the Upstate and stay connected to the mission that’s helping kids grow on and off the course.

Join hosts Michael Pius, PGA and Jared Crane for another Upstate Update as we walk through everything happening across First Tee — Upstate South Carolina.

Tune in for all things First Tee in the Upstate and stay connected to the mission that’s helping kids grow on and off the course.

We’re excited to welcome back Steve Goforth for his second visit to On the First Tee!

Steve is the Head PGA Professional at Cross Creek Plantation and host of the Goforth and Golf podcast. He brings a wealth of experience from both the teaching and playing sides of the game, along with a deep belief in golf’s ability to shape character and build strong identities in young people.

In this episode, we catch up on all things Cross Creek — from the growth of First Tee programming at the club to the incredible impact of Coach Ansley and a thriving community of volunteer coaches who continue to pour into the next generation. Steve shares what it means to create a culture where kids feel welcomed, challenged, and inspired every time they step onto the course.

We also dive into the Short Tee Shoot Out, a fun and uniquely formatted tournament that’s become a favorite at Cross Creek. Steve breaks down what makes the event special and why creative formats like this keep the game engaging for players of all ages.

Whether you’re a coach, parent, golf professional, or someone who simply believes in the power of the game, this episode is packed with insight, encouragement, and a behind-the-scenes look at a growing golf community doing things the right way.

Tune in and step On the First Tee with us!

In this episode, we sit down with Coach Laura Maurer to share her incredible full-circle journey with First Tee — Upstate South Carolina. A former participant turned coach and proud First Tee alum, Laura’s story is rooted in growth, service, and giving back to the game that helped shape her.

From attending a national First Tee opportunity as a junior to now leading the next generation as a coach, Laura has made a lasting impact both on and off the course. She also played a key role in launching our Els for Autism program and currently serves as the Dorman High School girls head coach and assistant boys coach, continuing to create opportunities for young people through golf every day.

Tune in for a conversation about mentorship, leadership, and the powerful ways golf can change lives — one relationship at a time.

Join hosts Michael Pius, PGA and Jared Crane for another Upstate Update as we walk through everything happening across First Tee — Upstate South Carolina.

Tune in for all things First Tee in the Upstate and stay connected to the mission that’s helping kids grow on and off the course.

Join hosts Michael Pius, PGA and Jared Crane for another Upstate Update as we walk through everything happening across First Tee — Upstate South Carolina.

We’ll break down our 2025 programming numbers, including a big highlight: over 800 participants with continued growth in girls’ participation. We’ll also share updates on our upcoming Winter Programs, including January classes at Topgolf, plus early details on the PGATSS Leadership Series for participants age 14+ who’ve been with us for more than two years. If you’re newer to First Tee, this is something to aim for… so stick around!

We’ll cover key dates too — Spring Registration opens Monday, January 26th.

On the fundraising side, we’ll talk about the Golf Passport, now officially on sale, the start of our Annual Appeal, and the launch of the First Tee — Upstate South Carolina Golf Shop. You’ll also hear an update from the FORE the Future Society (formerly Young Professionals Council) and important Save the Dates for our 2026 fundraising events.

Tune in for all things First Tee in the Upstate and stay connected to the mission that’s helping kids grow on and off the course.

In this episode, we sit down with First Tee — Upstate South Carolina participant Julia Conroy to celebrate her recent achievements, including being selected for and attending two national First Tee opportunities. We also chat with Micah Candeletta-Burklin, owner of Rana Golf, about his journey, his vision for the brand, and the impact he hopes to make in the golf community.

Tune in for an inspiring blend of youth success, entrepreneurship, and the power of golf to shape lives.