First Tee – Minnesota has opened registration for its 2025 spring and summer programs, offering clinics and events at more than 20 locations across the state. The youth development nonprofit integrates golf instruction with life skills to empower young people, particularly those who may not otherwise have access to the game.
“First Tee – Minnesota will offer an impactful slate of participant opportunities in 2025, all designed to empower teens to become game changers in their communities,” said Jim Triggs, CEO of First Tee – Minnesota. “We invite Minnesota kids and teens to sign up and visit one of our many golf events designed for personal growth by encouraging teens to embrace challenges and engage in meaningful experiences within a safe and supportive environment.”
Registration is available online at firstteeminnesota.org/programs.
One of First Tee’s success stories is Natalie Braga, a program alumna who recently graduated from Loyola University Chicago. Braga credits the organization and her mentor, coach Franco Zerna, with shaping her educational journey, which included international studies and an internship with the U.S. Department of State.
“None of this would have been possible without the life lessons I learned at Highland National,” Braga said. “I’ll cherish the lifelong connections I’ve made and carry First Tee’s core values with me as I move forward in my career.”
2025 First Tee – Minnesota Event Schedule
April:
Summer registration opens for clinics and camps across Minnesota.
May 10:
Free Golf Clinic at Highland National, St. Paul
Kids ages 6–14 can explore golf through five skill stations, including putting and full swing. No equipment is needed. Free ice cream will be available. Registration required by May 1.
May 11:
Free Golf Clinic at Columbia Golf Course, Minneapolis
Another free introductory clinic for children ages 6–14. Registration is due by May 1.
June 14:
North Side Open at Theodore Wirth Golf Course
A short-course tournament for ages 6–12 featuring golf, music, ice cream, and giveaways including clubs and starter kits. Event runs from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Details and registration at link.
June 24–27:
Scratch Golf Camp at Highland National Golf Course
A first-of-its-kind golf camp for children with congenital heart defects, in partnership with M Health Fairview and Minnesota Children’s. Registration is coordinated through care teams.
July 7–12:
Game Changers Academy, Minneapolis
First Tee’s flagship national event returns for its 25th year, bringing more than 70 teens from across the country for a weeklong leadership and community-building summit.
July 21–27:
3M Open Events
First Tee activities will be hosted during the PGA Tour’s 3M Open. A full schedule will be announced.
Sept. 6:
Eddie Manderville Open / Be the Change Junior Golf Tournament
Held at Theodore Wirth Par 3 course.
November:
Winter’s Coming Golf Tournament
Details forthcoming.
First Tee is a national youth development organization that uses the game of golf to help young people build character, confidence, and resilience. Through hands-on experiences and mentorship, First Tee – Minnesota provides access to the sport and the life lessons it teaches—particularly for kids in underserved communities.
For more information or to register for upcoming events, visit firstteeminnesota.org.