First Tee – Greater Washington, D.C. Participants Daryn and Cameron had the opportunity to travel to Naples, Florida to compete in the The Golf To Paradise-First Tee Champions Challenge at Quail Creek Country Club in conjunction with the Chubb Classic. This event brings 12 teams from First Tee chapters to participate in several exciting opportunities!The tournament consisted of scramble in the first round, modified alternate shot in the second round, and best ball in the third round. Over the course of the three days, Daryn and Cameron were partnered with participants from First Tee – Chicago, First Tee – Twin Cities and First Tee- Naples/Collier. In addition to playing in the tournament, Daryn and Cameron also had a teaching clinic with Champions Tour players Thursday. This trip was also a huge personal development opportunity for those involved. “I got the chance to get to know First Tee participants and coaches from all across the country” Cameron remarked, “This trip has taught me to come out of my shell even more and to enjoy every moment to the fullest because you never know who you might meet or what opportunities lie ahead.”In addition to playing themselves, participants had other opportunities as well including a service day at the Collier Museum and a Sunset Cruise on the Naples Princess! “The event provided awesome golf and social activities, including watching pros at Chubb Classic,” Daryn recalled, I became friends with all the other First Tee chapters and was able to have fun and a little vacation along with playing the sport I love.” Daryn and Cameron finished 8th on Sunday. We are so proud of all their accomplishments during this trip and look forward to watching them grow as golfers. To learn more about the Chubb Classic check out this article:https://www.naplesnews.com/story/sports/golf/2021/04/13/golf-paradise-first-tee-champions-challenge-returns-despite-covid-19/7201438002/
Meet Micaa’! In honor of Women’s History Month we are highlighting women who have gone through First Tee – Greater Washington, D.C’s programming and still shine today.Micaa’ Thomas is a distinguished First Tee – Greater Washington, D.C. alum who continuously illustrated the importance of our core value of perseverance daily; whether that is on or off the course. “The core value of perseverance has been instrumental in my junior and collegiate golf careers. Perseverance today still plays a major role in furthering my professional development in golf.” For years – Micaa’ took classes with First Tee. She still served as a role model for all the girls in our program. In (2014) Micaa played in the Nature Valley First Tee Open at Pebble Beach! Micaa’ and her PGA Tour Champions playing partner, Olin Browne finished in the Top 10, the top ever finish for our chapter in the event. “The First Tee – Greater Washington DC has afforded me with the foundation and principles of success in life. The program continues to be an impactful influence in my golf aspirations. Mentorship and support from First Tee instructors and its corporate sponsors has been invaluable.”Upon graduation, we had the privilege of continuing to watch Micaa’ in her golf journey as she attended Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) where she won several conference championships and accolades. As an inductee of the African American Collegiate and Youth Golfer’s Hall of Fame, Micaa’ continued her talents past graduation and into the amateur golf world where you can have the chance to see her play now. During her time at SCAD, Micaa’ made a lasting impression on the communities around her. Read about her career, choices and accomplishments here:https://shoutoutatlanta.com/meet-micaa-thomas-competitive-amateur-golfer-and-visual-effects-artist/In addition to her achievements on the course, Micaa’ has continued to amaze us with her ability to challenge society. She is in the process of publishing a children’s book titled Penny and the Peanut, to highlight the harmful effects of peanut allergies. Micaa’ is continuing to impact the lives of many through her love of golf and art. We are so proud of the woman she has become!