Last week in Atlanta, First Tee held its inaugural Leadership Academy in partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore. The event had the incredible opportunity to engage 48 amazing kids in a program that explored the fundamental elements of building and operating a successful team. Exciting daily highlights from each day included:
Monday kicked off with an inspiring opening keynote from Nell Fortner, the women’s head basketball coach at Georgia Tech. Her wisdom and experience set the tone for an exciting and educational week ahead.
On Tuesday, the kids had the privilege of visiting the Atlanta Falcons’ training facility in Flowery Branch. They were treated to valuable insights from key staff members, including the team president, Greg Beadles. The young participants also had the unique opportunity to play on the team’s practice field, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Wednesday proved to be another remarkable day as the children had the privilege of hearing from Garth Lagerwey, the president and CEO of Atlanta United. Lagerwey shared his expertise and experiences, providing valuable lessons on leadership and teamwork. To top it off, the group attended an exhilarating Atlanta United game at the iconic Mercedes Benz Stadium, immersing themselves in the thrilling atmosphere of professional soccer.
Thursday brought a blend of learning and historical significance. The kids visited the headquarters of PGA TOUR Superstore, gaining insights into the operations of this renowned golf retailer. Additionally, they had the honor of visiting the birth home of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., an iconic figure in civil rights history. This visit not only deepened their understanding of the importance of equality and justice but also served as a reminder of the impact an individual can have on shaping a better world.
Finally, the kids will conclude their enriching week by visiting the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. The highlight of this visit will be a closing address from Chris Lindstrom, the esteemed Walter Payton Man of the Year from the Atlanta Falcons. Lindstrom’s words will resonate with the young participants, leaving them inspired to continue making a positive impact in their communities.
Throughout this entire week, the driving force behind this incredible program has been Ralph Stokes, the first Black president of the Georgia State Golf Association, who spearheaded the initiative in collaboration with PGA TOUR Superstore. Ralph’s passion for teamwork stems from his own experiences as a football player under the legendary Bear Bryant at the University of Alabama. His dedication to fostering an environment of collaboration and unity has been instrumental in making this week an outstanding success.
As the week comes to a close, participants reflected on the valuable lessons learned, the inspiring individuals met, and the unforgettable experiences shared. The program succeeded and instilled in these young minds the importance of teamwork, leadership, and the power of unity. With these lessons in their hearts, these children will surely go on to achieve great things and make a positive difference in their future endeavors.
Learn more about First Tee at firsttee.org
