We have amazing volunteers of all ages that make our programs a huge success. These caring and dedicated individuals serve as role models to develop impactful relationships that help our kids succeed on and off the course.
Rich Marinelli
Rich recently started this summer giving his time at First Tee – Sarasota/Manatee and has been a positive light for our participants. Rich is no stranger to First Tee and is excited to continue sharing his love for the game.
What does being a First Tee volunteer mean to you?
I first became involved with The First Tee of Connecticut volunteering at their practice facility at TPC River Highlands in Cromwell, CT. My own children attended First Tee programs and later became junior coaches. After a long absence and upon retiring, I wanted to give back and volunteer in my Florida community. The First Tee of Sarasota Manatee has given me the opportunity to once again share my golfing knowledge and love of the game with a new generation of kids. I believe the most important skills that golf (and The First Tee) can teach are those that last a lifetime – patience, confidence, honesty, humility, composure, sportsmanship, and friendship.
What has been your favorite part so far?
Driving the golf cart around the course with the kids during summer camp at Serenoa Golf Club was something I looked forward to every week. The kids were always so excited to play a scramble and ask me – “Coach Rich, what club should I hit, can we use my ball, can I putt first.” Every hole was a new adventure from helping them tee-up a ball, adjusting a grip, or lining up a putt. My favorite was getting them to reduce the number of practice swings from MANY to one or two. I would call my wife on the drive home after camp with a “play-by-play” of my afternoons experience.
How has being a First Tee volunteer impacted you?
I have been impressed with the attention, good behavior, and quality of golf among the boys and girls. I believe all the participants genuinely enjoyed the program and improved, and it showed through their smiles and laughter. I’m encouraged that the lessons these kids learn through golf will make a positive impact on them at home, school, and well into their adulthood. However, what has impressed me the most as a volunteer is the coaching staff. In my limited observation, the effort, care, and attention they show to the children has been inspirational. The First Tee of Sarasota Manatee is in good hands with this generation of young, dedicated, and talented coaching professionals.
Maxima – Jr. Volunteer
Maxima has been a participant in our program for 7+ years and has become a integral part of our jr. coach team.
What does being a First Tee volunteer mean to you?
Being a First Tee volunteer means being able to give back to the sport I love while helping kids learn and enjoy golf. I really like being able to encourage them, help them improve, and make golf feel fun and welcoming
What has been your favorite part so far?
My favorite part has been seeing the kids improve and become more confident. I love when they finally figure something out that they’ve been struggling with, or when they get really excited about hitting a good shot. It’s also fun getting to know all of their different personalities and watching them have fun while learning.
How has being a First Tee volunteer impacted you?
Volunteering with First Tee has taught me that helping someone else improve can be just as rewarding as improving yourself. It has made me more patient and better at communicating, and it’s given me a different perspective on golf. I’ve learned that sometimes the most important thing is just encouraging someone and making sure they’re having fun.