Reprinted with permission of the Osseo-Maple Grove Press.

Good golf swing, integrity learned at First Tee

by Kathy Hara

When First Tee golfers call a penalty on themselves, those golfers are demonstrating the core value of honesty.

When those same golfers keep score, repair a divot, or rake a bunker, they are showing another core value, that of responsibility.

The First Tee, a program offered by the Three Rivers Park District to kids ages eight to 18, teaches more than the game of golf. It also teaches nine core values ­ integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, perseverance, courtesy and judgment, in addition to honesty and responsibility.

Three Rivers Park District is one of five First Tee programs in Minnesota, and it is available at Eagle Lake Golf Center and at Baker National Golf Course, along with several other locations. There are also special winter programs at two locations, including Northern Palms Indoor Golf Center in Rogers.

The First Tee was established in 1997 by the World Golf Association with the goal of making the sport accessible to all kids, as well as impacting their lives in a positive way.

With "golferships" available to help pay expenses, the program is open to kids from all economic backgrounds, and The First Tee especially reaches out to minorities. Kids with disabilities are also welcomed into the program.