About

Growing the Game Through Junior Golf

First Tee Tri-Cities continued to expand its reach, filling 306 programming spots across spring, summer, and fall sessions, along with six ACE participants. Classes were offered at six area golf facilities, while the First Tee School Program reached an impressive 5,258 students across 19 schools. Special events, including the Mini Masters, Glow Golf, and Fall Finale, provided additional opportunities for young golfers to learn, compete, and have fun.

The Sneds Tour also experienced strong participation, with 219 Tri-Cities members and 28 local after-school and summer events. Tournament play increased from 1,071 rounds in 2025 to 1,410 rounds in 2026, reflecting continued growth in junior competitive golf. Additionally, the Tennessee Middle School Golf Association supported 31 teams across three local divisions, culminating in district and sectional competitions.

Other junior golf highlights included the Tennessee PGA Junior Golf Academy, the Drive, Chip & Putt Local Qualifier at Blackthorn Club, which welcomed 117 participants, and Tyler Giles Junior Golf Day, where more than 80 juniors received free instruction from local golf professionals. A free Rules of Golf class, presented by the Tennessee Golf Association, also attracted more than 80 juniors and coaches.

Supporting Veterans and Expanding Access

PGA HOPE Tri-Cities continued to make a meaningful impact by offering six-week programs in both the spring and fall, serving 30 veterans each season. The Foundation also took important steps toward expanding adaptive golf opportunities through training at the Els Center of Excellence in Florida and plans to introduce Els for Autism programming in spring 2027.

Competitive Golf and Community Engagement

The Tri-Cities Pro-Am Series remained a cornerstone of local golf, hosting 31 regular-season events and recording 5,038 rounds of golf. New online tee-time booking software and the introduction of an Early Access Membership program enhanced the experience for participating golfers.

The Foundation also hosted a full calendar of competitive events, including the Adult-Junior, Tri-Cities Four Ball, Pro-Junior, Pro-Lady, and Tri-Cities Cup Matches. These events brought together amateur golfers, PGA Professionals, and juniors while celebrating the region’s strong golf community.

Fundraising and Looking Ahead

Fundraising efforts continued to support the Foundation’s mission through signature events such as The Gathering at The Olde Farm and The Virginian, which welcomed a full field of 100 players for two days of golf and fellowship. The First Tee Break 50 Fundraiser and PGA HOPE Marathon provided additional support for junior golf and veteran programming.

Looking ahead, the Foundation is excited about the development of Golf House Tri-Cities at Pine Oaks Golf Course, a partnership with the City of Johnson City. With improvements already underway at the driving range, plans include the construction of a new learning center in 2027 to further support golf instruction, player development, and community programming.

As we reflect on 2026, we are grateful for the PGA Professionals, volunteers, sponsors, partner facilities, and community supporters who make these opportunities possible. Together, we are growing the game, expanding access, and making a lasting impact through golf in the Tri-Cities.