ETOBICOKE, Ont. — From first-time golfers to returning participants, 20 youth gathered at Centennial Park Golf Centre on September 15 for two adidas sponsored First Tee – Ontario sessions focused on learning, friendly competition and having fun.
As First Tee – Canada’s apparel partner, adidas supported the session by providing chapter-branded T-shirts for participants as they took part in an evening of golf activities led by First Tee coach Graham Turrentine.
The one-hour session featured chipping stations where participants learned the short game fundamentals. To conclude the session, participants were divided into three groups for a golf-inspired game of Battleship, using their chipping skills to target boxes on the green.
The evening began with an all-girls session, followed by an open session for youth aged 7 to 13. For some, it was their introduction to the game, while others had been attending Coach Graham’s First Tee sessions for several seasons and continued to develop their skills.
For a group of girls who have attended the program together over several seasons, First Tee has become about more than just golf. Through their participation, they have built lifelong friendships and an eagerness to come back each week to spend time with each other on the course.
Engaging and inclusive golf instruction is also what keeps participants coming back each season. Coach Graham has created small traditions that make his programs memorable, including handing out candy at the end of each session. Along with the golf activities and friendly competition, these moments help make the sessions something the young participants can look forward to each week.
For Coach Graham, seeing the children interacting and excited to participate is what makes coaching worthwhile.
“Seeing the kids energised and engaged sparks my excitement to keep showing up and giving back to the youth,” he said. “The future is bright for golf in Canada.”
With support from adidas, First Tee – Ontario continues to make golf more accessible and inclusive for youth by creating opportunities to learn and experience the game. Through weekly sessions, youth can develop their skills, create lasting memories and feel a sense of belonging in the sport.
Whether a child is attending for the first time or returning for another season, each session offers a chance to take on challenges, try something new and enjoy being part of a strong First Tee community.
Get involved at firstteeontario.ca/get-involved.
