First Tee – Southeast Wisconsin: Milwaukee’s Youth Golf Program

Discovering a youth program that goes far beyond golf lessons

While traditional sports programs focus on athletic skills, what if there was an organization that used golf as a gateway to something much more profound – character development and life skills that will serve our kids for decades to come?

Enter First Tee – Southeast Wisconsin, a youth development organization that's been quietly transforming lives across ten counties since 2004. But don't let the golf focus fool you – this isn't just about perfecting a swing or lowering a handicap.

Here's what makes First Tee different: while your child is learning to grip a club and read greens, they're simultaneously developing what the organization calls "The Five Key Commitments" – Pursuing Goals, Growing through Challenge, Collaborating with Others, Building Positive Self-Identity, and Using Good Judgment.

The numbers tell a compelling story. Research shows that 89% of parents believe character is a diminishing value in society that needs greater emphasis. Nine out of ten parents are actively seeking opportunities for their children to build character. First Tee directly addresses what experts call the "Character Gap" – making it far more than a recreational activity.

A Journey That Grows With Your Child

What impressed us most about First Tee's approach is how thoughtfully they've structured their programs to meet children at every developmental stage:

Ages 7-9: Building the Foundation Your youngest adventurers focus on active participation and fun while building inner strength and self-confidence in a safe, encouraging environment. They're learning basic golf fundamentals, but more importantly, they're building relationships and exploring what it means to be part of a team.

Ages 10-11: Deepening Understanding As kids mature, they dive deeper into character concepts through collaborative activities that translate both on and off the golf course. This is where you'll start seeing those "game-changing" behaviors emerge at home and school.

Ages 12-13: Demonstrating Mastery Early adolescents get opportunities to showcase both their golf skills and character commitments, with programming specifically designed to support this unique developmental stage. It's about growth, mastery, and having fun with peers who share similar values.

Ages 14+: Looking Forward Older teens begin planning their own paths, reflecting on how to apply their golf and life skills to new situations. This is where the program really shines – offering pathways to college scholarships through their Scholars program and leadership opportunities through their Ace program.

How Families Fit Into the Picture

While First Tee's core mission centers on youth development, there are meaningful ways for families to get involved. The organization offers various volunteer opportunities that allow parents to directly impact the children served:

• Volunteer or Paid Coaching – No golf background required! First Tee provides comprehensive training rooted in positive youth development.

• Outreach Volunteering – Help raise awareness at community events, staff information tables, or assist with golf activities.

• Chapter Support – Work behind the scenes with administrative tasks, event setup, fundraising, or special projects.

What we particularly appreciate is First Tee's unwavering commitment to safety. All employees, coaches, and volunteers complete background checks and SafeSport training – giving parents peace of mind about their children's environment.

While the daily programming focuses on youth participants, there are special occasions where families can share in the experience. Some programs, like their partnership with Wauwatosa Rec, culminate in family golf outings where parents can hit the links alongside their young golfers. These moments offer a unique opportunity to see your child's growth firsthand and create lasting memories together.

Getting Started

First Tee – Southeast Wisconsin serves families across Fond du Lac, Jefferson, Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Sheboygan, Walworth, Washington, and Waukesha counties, impacting over 3,000 children annually.

Ready to learn more? The best way to understand how First Tee might fit into your family's adventure is to reach out directly. Program schedules, costs, and registration details vary throughout the year, so a phone call to 414-727-5290 or email to programs@firstteesew.org will give you the most current information.

You can also visit their facility at 11350 W. Theodore Trecker Way in West Allis to get a feel for the environment and meet the team.

For families seeking an activity that will help their children develop both on and off the course, First Tee offers a unique blend of fun, challenge, and character development that extends far beyond the final putt.

For more options in the area, see our Milwaukee guide to youth golf programs, lessons and courses