Oxford First Tee program boasts solid inaugural year

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By Kasie Baltes, Contributing Writer 4:38 PM Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Golf, character education and summer camp, all in the same event?

Sure, why not?

Oxford’s First Tee program goes above and beyond a normal summer camp by teaching character-development skills while taking the game of golf to a whole new level. This was the first year for the program — and, judging from the smiling faces of the young people participating in the program at the Indian Ridge golf course, it went pretty well.

The First Tee Program was started in 1997 by the World Golf Foundation in St. Augustine, Fla. The international program teaches golf fundamentals along with and nine core character values.

Oxford’s version took place the last two weeks of this past June, with 22 boys and girls between the ages of 8 and 18 taking part.

The First Tee Program was supported by Oxford’s United Way, Oxford Parks and Recreation, Coalition for a Healthy Community, Miami University Partnership Office, Miami University Evans Scholars, the Knolls of Oxford and various community residents.

“This was a big confidence booster for the youth; some participants played golf, but some had never held a golf club in their life,” said Maureen Kranbuhl, executive director with the United Way of Oxford. “This is just a great program that taught the skills of golf as well as character skills.”

Stephanie Hughes, a mother of one of the participants, was thrilled that her son took part.

“I saw a definite change,” she said. “I think he has learned leadership skills and had more confidence around adults.”

In terms of improving their games, 12 of the 22 youths certified at Par level, which took place on July 20 and 27 at Oxford’s Country Club. The 12 certified golfers had to complete nine holes of golf within two hours while displaying leadership skills.

Noah Nixon, a 9-year-old participant who is certified at Par level, said he was excited to play the final game. “I like practicing golf,” Nixon said. “I am excited to play.”

“I learned as much as the kids did,” head coach Jim Brazen said. “This was an awesome experience.”

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