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 From left: Pro Kids staff members Marty Remmell, Todd Smith and Colleen Pelak (PHOTO: Eddie Meeks) “I think it’s really key to remember that we’re not trying to produce great golfers, that’s just something that’s happened,” said Todd Smith, director of golf for Pro Kids, home of the First Tee of San Diego. “What is truly important is that we have helped so many kids graduate high school, move on to college, find jobs, and learn life-long skills they can carry with them wherever they go.” Approximately 15,000 juniors have participated in Pro Kids since former San Diego Chargers offensive lineman Ernie Wright came up with the idea. “He wanted to teach kids citizenship and life-skill kind of things,” Smith said. “So he used golf as a way to attract them.” About 10 years ago, the PGA took a look at the program, liked what it saw, and used it as the model for what is now the First Tee program, which has more than 200 locations across the country. But while golf is an integral component, it’s merely “the hook we try to bring kids in to expose them to as many things as possible,” Smith said. Kids learn the rules and etiquette of the game and gain low-cost access to county courses. They also have access to the 7,000-square-foot learning center, where things from conflict resolution and proper greetings to financial planning and nutritional workshops are taught. Students who participate in activities, perform community service and maintain a good GPA receive points that can be redeemed for free golf or free clubs. Pro Kids, which doesn’t charge any fees, also tries to expose its members to life outside their neighborhoods by hosting periodic events that pair 18 students with 18 members of a private club. The golfers play Colina Park Golf Course one day and the private club the next day. “It’s a great mentoring opportunity for the club members, while it gives the kids a chance to play a course they might never otherwise play, as well as give them the opportunity to talk to people who have had great success in many different walks of life,” Smith said. Pro Kids, which also has awarded more than $1 million in scholarships, has grown far beyond its original scope. “Because of our success, we’re getting kids from throughout the county who want to be involved,” Smith said. “And each one of them is welcome.” For more information, visit prokidsonline.org. Click4TeeTimes.com | Southern California Professional Golfers' Association Roger Dunn Golf Shops/The Golf Mart | Pro Kids Golf Academy Southern California Golf Association Back to main page |
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