FIRST TEE HELPS PAVE THE WAY FOR LIFE

The Inspirato Colorado Open series helps underwrite The Green Valley Ranch First Tee chapter, one of 150 chapters in the U.S. that help teach young people life skills through the game of golf.

The Green Valley Ranch First Tee chapter holds classes and training for children and teens to learn the game of golf but also learn character education and life skills. Golf is the vehicle to help the participants develop skills that can help them succeed in life.

“Arguably the most important thing I got out of the First Tee was the community,” said Emma Stavely.

Stavely this year was named a First Tee Scholar, the first in the 20-year history of the Green Valley Ranch First Tee program. The national scholar process has First Tee participants apply and go through a selection process. The 16 women and 11 men named as Scholars this year average nearly 10 years in First Tee and an SAT score of 1450.

Stavely is planning to attend the University of San Diego to study civil engineering and business administration and is the daughter of Lynae and Craig Stavely.

“I got to participate in so many various classes, leadership events and volunteer/ caddying opportunities,” she said.

“Through those, I met countless individuals, each coming from a different background and life story, that I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to meet if it weren’t for this program. Yes, this program did teach me a lot about who I am as a player.”

“But even beyond that, it allowed me to branch out and explore new opportunities and people, while also learning more about myself as a person,” Stavely said the First Tee program helped her develop her confidence, which was crucial when she began to look for schools.

“This program has helped me become more confident in taking my next steps,” she said.”

“Especially when going out of state, I had a lot of questions and nerves about what was to come, but they have been great with providing answers and advice.”

“Obviously, the scholarship has helped alleviate some of the financial burden put on my family’s shoulders. Yet it has also provided me with a mentor and a group of fellow scholars that have been fundamental in making me feel more prepared for what’s to come.”