First Tee Nine Core Values
First Tee has established Nine Core Values that represent some of the many inherently positive values connected with the game of golf.
By participating in First Tee, kids are introduced to these core values which are incorporated throughout the program. Parents are encouraged to reinforce these behaviors by talking about them, what they mean and what these behaviors can look like at home.
Honesty
hon·es·ty
Golf is unique from other sports in that players regularly call penalties on themselves and report their own score.
Apply This Value Blog: Why is golf different? Watch: Rickie Fowler Talk about our Values
Integrity
in·teg·ri·ty
Golf is a game of etiquette and composure. Players are responsible for their actions and personal conduct on the golf course even at times when others may not be looking.
Apply this Value Watch: Sergio Garcia Talks About our Values Blog: Coach inspires youth to live with integrity
Sportsmanship
sports·man·ship
Players must know and abide by the rules of golf and be able to conduct themselves in a kind and respectful manner towards others even in a competitive game.
Apply this Value Watch: Scott Langley Talks about our Values
Respect
re·spect
In golf it is important to show respect for oneself, playing partners, fellow competitors, the golf course, and for the honor and traditions of the game.
Apply this Value Blog: The Power of a Handshake Watch: Scott Langley talks about our Core Values
Confidence
con·fi·dence
Confidence plays a key role in the level of play that one achieves. Players can increase confidence in their abilities by being positive and focusing on something they are doing well regardless of the outcome.
Apply this Value Watch: Paula Creamer Talks about our Values Blog: Top 5 Reasons Girls Should Play Sports—Like Golf
Responsibility
re·spon·si·bil·i·ty
Players are responsible for their actions on the golf course. It is up to them to keep score, repair divots, rake bunkers, repair ball marks on the green, and keep up with the pace of play.
Apply this Value Watch: Rickie Fowler talks about our Values Blog: Coach inspires youth to use responsibility
Perseverance
per·se·ver·ance
To succeed in golf, players must continue through bad breaks and their own mistakes, while learning from past experiences.
Apply this Value Watch: Sergio Garcia talks about our values Blog: 10 participants exemplify perseverance Blog: Charlie Sifford’s Perseverance Paved the Way
Courtesy
cour·te·sy
A round of golf should begin and end with a handshake between fellow competitors. Players also should be still and quiet while others are preparing and performing a shot.
Apply this Value Watch: Jimmy Walker talks about our Core Values Blog: The Power of a Handshake
Judgment
judg·ment
Using good judgment is very important in golf. It comes into play when deciding on strategy, club selection, when to play safe and when to take a chance, the type of shot players consider executing, as well as making healthy choices on and off the golf course.
Apply this Value Watch: Paula Creamer Talk About Our Values Blog: TOMS Founder Reflects on using Judgment
