School Program
Through The First Tee's National School Program (NSP), the NYSGA has funded Upstate NY elementary schools to teach golf to students in gym class. At a cost of approximately $3,000 per school, twenty schools and nearly 10,000 students have received the program through NYSGA funding.
The focus of program is to establish a lifelong interest in golf by engaging students in a structured golf curriculum that promotes personal character development within a physical education setting. The donation by the NYSGA includes age-appropriate SNAG (Starting New At Golf) equipment and training for gym teachers on the curriculum.
After learning the game of golf in gym class, the NYSGA works with organizations such as the PGA Tour, the Futures Tour and The First Tee to provide students with opportunities to practice their new skills at a real golf facility. Students have been able to hit range balls for free at golf facilities as well as receive free instruction from professionals.
View pictures of the program at work in Upstate NY.
Quotes from participating gym teachers:
“Program has been a big hit with our students. It is very simple to use and I love that it teaches all levels of golf, from basic to advanced.” ~ Emily Howland Elementary
“It fits into our group of lifetime activities that we teach. It is a nice program.” ~ Fremont Elementary
“Most complete set that incorporates everything from one source. Easy to use. Good for ones who have never golfed before.” ~ Meachem Elementary
School Districts that have received the NSP through funding by the NYSGA:
Syracuse Area:
Syracuse City
Port Byron Central
Westhill Central
Southern Cayuga Central
Lyncourt
West Genesee
Jamesville-Dewitt
East Syracuse
Rochester Area:
Rush-Henrietta
North Rose-Wolcott
Rochester City
Williamson
Hilton
Greece
Spencerport
Wayne Central
SNAG Equipment provided to the Elementary Schools:
