CSGA Publications: 2016 CSGA Annual Magazine | Page 83

The First Tee of Connecticut and Fall. During the Group Lessons, young people learn more about the fundamentals of the game while simultaneously participating in character education and life skills programs. They learn to respect the rules and etiquette of the game while learning good sportsmanship and how to show courtesy toward others. The confidence young people develop helps them in all areas of their lives, and they develop a sense of responsibility that extends far past raking bunkers and replacing divots. The First Tee of Connecticut is able to teach the Life Skills Experience at 22 locations across the state at very affordable rates (just $5-$7 per lesson at most locations) thanks to financial support from individual donors and corporate sponsors, grant support from foundations, and alliance partner organizations like the CSGA. The First Tee of Connecticut also raises money through a series of charity classic golf events held at golf courses across the state each year. The First Tee of Connecticut is grateful to the friends who donate a portion - or all of the proceeds raised at Benefactor events held in honor of a family member or friend who loved the game and who recognized the need to pass its inherent values on to future generations. Be sure to visit The First Tee of Connecticut’s website at www.thefirstteect. org to keep track of the exciting ways they help children tee things up for a successful future. You’ll also learn about winter program opportunities such as Open Houses which are a great way to warm up on a cold winter day! If you’d like to speak with someone from The First Tee of Connecticut, please call (860) 882-1660. ABOVE (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP): A full field of players participated in the Parent-Child Open at Lyman Orchards Apple Nine on May 14th; Two happy players in a First Tee of Connecticut In-School Program in Waterbury; Lining up a putt with SNAG (Starting New at Golf) equipment; 17-year old Chase Skrubis, proud to represent The First Tee of Connecticut at Pebble Beach, playing alongside Champions Tour player Esteban Toledo. OPPOSITE PAGE (TOP TO BOTTOM): Participants at a Spring Group Lesson listening attentively to Coach George Claffey; Meghna Mazumdar meets Rory McIlroy on the practice range at the 2016 Wells Fargo Championship. 2016 ANNUAL / CONNECTICUT STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION / 83