Tim Karches
Executive Director
TFT Recognized Coach
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Tim Karches also know as Coach Tim has been involved as a coach with the First Tee of Western New York since 2007. Tim took over the Executive Director role in the summer of 2022.

Tim is grateful for the First Tee which allows him to combine his passion for golf and skills as an educator to extend opportunities to young golfers who may otherwise not be introduced to the game.

Janet Battaglia
Outreach Coordinator
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I was first introduced to The First Tee of WNY as a PE Teacher in the Amherst Central School District. Out staff was trained in The First Tee National School Program. I retired from Amherst in 2017 and began volunteering with the summer The First Tee of Western NY Life Skills Programs at Brighton and Grover Cleveland Golf Courses. I enjoyed the opportunity to continue working with children and especially bought into the Core Values and Healthy Habit components of The First Tee curriculum. In January of 2018, I was asked to work more extensively in the organization as the Outreach Coordinator. In this capacity I work with area schools and community groups to help grow our program locally. Additionally, I coach Life Skills Classes that run during the year.

I have enjoyed getting back into golf in recent years. I appreciate the natural setting, panoramic views, the exercise and socialization. I have worked at improving my game by playing more often and focusing on the mental aspects of the game. I believe golf allows you to get a better understanding of yourself, your actions and reactions and your mental approach to situations.

I have been married to my husband, Pete, for 35 years. Together we raised three great children and have one grandson and another on the way. In my time at Amherst, I coached many different sports but mainly was involved in Lacrosse at the high school and middle school levels. I have run an area summer girls lacrosse camp at Amherst for 20 years.

Taylor Myles
Girls Golf Coordinator
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Taylor Myles is a dynamic leader, former All-American student-athlete, and community advocate from Buffalo, New York. Taylor graduated from the State University of Cortland with a degree in Sport Management. During her collegiate career, she became a two-time All-American and broke school records in the 200 meters and 4×100-meter relay.

Taylor served as a PGA WORKS Fellow with the Western New York PGA Section. The PGA WORKS Fellowship is a premier entry-level opportunity designed to introduce individuals from diverse backgrounds to the golf industry. Taylor played a significant role in the 2023 PGA Championship at Oak Hill Country Club, where she helped lead the “Beyond the Green” initiative—an impactful program connecting students with industry leaders, executives, and influencers to inspire workforce development. She recruited local students and brought influential community trailblazers from Buffalo and Rochester to participate in the event.

In addition to her professional work, Taylor remains deeply committed to community service. She serves as a Board Member for Tapestry Charter School, supporting student achievement, budget development, and the cultivation of a healthy school culture. She also serves on the Say Yes Alumni Board as the Professional Development Chair, where she leads initiatives that equip alumni with career readiness skills, networking opportunities, and pathways for long-term success.

Additionally, Taylor is a member of the Harriet Tubman 300s, an organization dedicated to honoring and amplifying the legacy and community impact inspired by Harriet Tubman’s work.
Taylor is excited to inspire and empower young girls to get involved in the game of golf while also focusing on their overall youth development and leadership skills. She is passionate about creating opportunities that build confidence, character, and a lifelong love for the game.

Alexa Hall
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
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Alexa Hall is part of the team at First Tee- Western New York, helping share the organization’s mission through marketing and communications. Born and raised in Williamsville, she recently graduated from Binghamton University with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration and Marketing and is now pursuing her Master’s in Business and Marketing Education at Buffalo State University, with plans to become a business teacher. This is Alexa’s third year with First Tee- Western New York, and she looks forward to continuing to build game changers in the year ahead.

Seth Wilson
Program Director
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Seth Wilson began working with First Tee WNY in 2019 as a Lead Coach at Niagara County Golf Course while a student at SUNY Brockport. After graduating with a B.S. in Physical Education Teacher Education, Seth became a Site Coordinator and oversaw the program at Brighton, Niagara County, and Glen Oak golf courses.

In the fall of 2023, Seth left teaching behind and began working full time for First Tee WNY as Director of Operations. Outside of work, Seth loves to play hockey and golf as well as spend time with his wife Delaney and their 2 cats.