PLAYING OPPORTUNITIES

At First Tee – Western New York, we believe that the game of golf provides the opportunity for kids to uncover their inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience that they can carry to everything they do. This is evident when kids get out on the actual golf course and learn in an authentic environment. Please read the descriptions of the playing opportunities below that are available to First Tee WNY participants.

First Round Learning Experience:

The First Round Learning Experience is designed for participants who are ready to take their golf skills from the range to the course. Held at a variety of courses across the Rochester and Buffalo area, these sessions give beginners the chance to play outside of their registered class time with the guidance of a First Tee – WNY Coach. Participants will play as many holes as possible in a 1.5-hour walking round, focusing on pace of play, etiquette, and scorekeeping. This is the perfect next step for participants who have been building their skills in class and are ready to experience what a real round of golf looks and feels like.

Range to Round Experience:

The Range to Round Experience is designed for participants who have some prior experience on the golf course and are ready to take their game to the next level. Held at a variety of courses across the Rochester and Buffalo area, this experience begins with a structured 30-minute warm up on the driving range with a First Tee – WNY Coach before heading out for a 9-hole walking round. With up to 2.5 hours on the course, participants will have plenty of time to apply what they’ve been working on while their coach checks in to help with course strategy and round management. This is the ideal experience for participants who are comfortable with the basics and are ready to start playing smarter golf.

Participant Playing Night:

Participant Playing Night is a relaxed evening round designed for participants ages 12 and up who want to get out on the course and enjoy the game with others. Open to all skill levels, participants will play a full 9 holes at courses across the Rochester and Buffalo area while a First Tee – WNY Coach checks in along the way. Less about instruction and more about fun, this is the perfect opportunity for participants to socialize, make new connections, and enjoy golf in a casual, low-pressure setting.

Parent/Child Tournaments:

This opportunity is designed to provide participants and an adult of their choosing, a chance to play in a competitive alternate-shot style format with another pairing. Teams are expected to keep an accurate score and turn in their scorecard at the end of their play. Teams are also expected to follow the etiquette and rules of golf learned at First Tee class and other First Tee Playing Opportunities.

First Tee WNY Showcase

The First Tee WNY Showcase is a friendly stroke play competition open to participants ages 7 and up across two age brackets — ages 7-11 and ages 12 and up. With one event in Buffalo and one in Rochester, the Showcase gives participants the opportunity to put their skills to the test in a competitive but welcoming environment. Participants should have prior experience on the golf course and feel comfortable playing an independent round. First Tee – WNY Coaches will be on hand throughout the event to assist with pace of play and answer any rules questions. All participants will receive a certificate of participation, with medals awarded to the top finishers in each age bracket. Whether your child is looking to compete for the top spot or simply experience competitive golf for the first time, the First Tee Showcase is the perfect stage to show off what they’ve got.