Jeremy Allen, Executive Editor | First Tee Greater Detroit is hosting its 3rd Annual Augusta Watch Party on Saturday, April 12 at the Henry Ford Health Pistons Performance Center in Detroit from 3-7 p.m. to watch golf’s biggest annual tournament. The program serves as the unofficial launch of the golf season, as well as the kickoff event for the First Tee’s programming.
The Augusta Watch Party is one of FTGD’s primary fundraisers each year, as it helps support golf programming for youth across the Metro Detroit area. This year’s event will include Masters-themed food and drink, golf simulators and contests, a silent auction with unique golf experiences, and a chance to shoot hoops on the Pistons’ practice court.
Carl Bentley, CEO of First Tee of Greater Detroit, said the party raises money to help bridge the financial gap for students who want to be a part of FTGD, but who might not otherwise have the money to do so.
“It’s kind of the kick-off to the golf season. The weather is changing and people are making more tee times. This event encourages people to think about First Tee. We’ll see well over 600 kids at our 12 activations across Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties this season, and it can be difficult for some of the kids in the community to pay for all of the programs they want to be a part of,” Bentley said.
“This goes a long way to support our programming throughout our 12 locations. We work with kids ages 6-17, and those range in experience from seeing a golf club for the first time to kids who are working with the Junior PGA. It supports kids’ financial aid scholarships to participate in our program. We do not turn any kids away. If they’re challenged with the fee we’re charging, the money we raise will help them offset that. The money also goes toward our end-of-season scholarships for graduating seniors for those going to trade school, community college, or a four-year school.”
FTGD is deeply committed to fostering the holistic development of children in the Detroit area. The organization’s unique program provides high-quality golf instruction and incorporates a comprehensive life skills curriculum, which addresses crucial aspects such as leadership, communication, and resilience.
By seamlessly blending golf with character-building activities, First Tee offers an engaging and impactful platform for interactive learning that equips young participants with valuable skills for the golf course and life beyond.
By engaging in this thoughtfully designed program, children enhance their golfing abilities and cultivate essential character traits such as resilience, self-confidence, and inner strength. FTGD’s ultimate objective is to equip young individuals with the invaluable tools and mindset needed to effectively confront and triumph over life’s obstacles as they progress through their formative years.
The First Tee organization firmly believes that experiences are potent educators. The organization is dedicated to creating enriching experiences that are both enjoyable and impactful for children. They strive to foster an environment where kids are enthusiastic about personal growth and feel secure in their ability to take risks and learn from failure.
For tickets to Saturday’s event, visit: https://firstteegreaterdetroit.org/2025-masters-watch-party/.
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