Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible?
All children ages 5 – 18 are eligible to participate in First Tee - Benton Harbor activities.
How do I register?
Registration for our year-round programming is located on our chapter website:
www.firstteebentonharbor.org.
What does it cost and what types of payment do you accept?
The First Tee Program (summer program) costs $55 per participant per session. We conduct two 4-week summer sessions. Spring, Fall & Winter programming is conducted in four week sessions and costs $25 per participant. You may pay for registration using a credit card online or by cash/check.
*Scholarships are also available
Why is the cost so low?
We keep our costs to the participants low to allow those who normally may not be able to afford to play golf the opportunity.
What is included in the registration fee?
The registration fee enrolls participants in a four-week First Tee Progrm session where they will receive golf skills, life-skills, core values and healthy habits instruction. Golf clubs are available for participants who do not have access to them. At the PLAYer and Par Levels the fee grants access to Blossom Trails Golf Club for classes and play days, a day of fun at Hidden Pointe for miniature golf and ice cream and reduced golf rates at other participating local courses. Birdie, Eagle and ACE Level participants receive access to the world-class practice facilities at Harbor Shores Golf Course, for classes, access to Harbor Shores Golf Course once a week to play as well.
What is the refund policy?
Although we encourage all of our participants to continue their involvement with golf and our program, youth may choose to withdraw from First Tee - Benton Harbor at any time. Those who withdraw prior to the start of their sessions will receive a full refund. After sessions have begun, no refunds will be given.
What is the inclement weather policy?
Classes that have to be cancelled due to inclement weather will be made up following the four-week session. When classes are cancelled due to weather, we will reach out through text, e-mails and Facebook prior to 7 a.m. to alert all participants and their families.
What is First Tee Program Certification process?
At the completion of classes, participants are asked to complete a certification process. The participant completes certification by taking written life-skills and golf knowledge tests, as well as a golf-skills performance test. These tests must be completed for the participant to progress within our First Tee program. The certification process guides them through the Par, Birdie, Eagle, and ACE levels as they continue with the program.
Do you do background checks on staff, coaches and volunteers?
All employees and volunteers of First Tee - Benton Harbor have to complete a background screening conducted by
Safe Sport.
How can I become a volunteer?
You must complete an application and screening process, which may include an interview about your skills and interests, a criminal background check, and character references. You will also receive training about your volunteer or coaching role, behavioral expectations, and child protection. Once your volunteer application is completed, we will be in touch!
For any questions, please email
[email protected]
What if my child doesn’t have equipment?
We will provide all of the equipment necessary to participate in our classes. If a participant has his/her own golf equipment, the participant is more than welcome to bring and use the equipment during instruction.
Is there a dress code?
We encourage the children to attend classes in proper golf attire. Young men: shirts (either short- or long-sleeved), slacks or shorts no more than 4” above the knee. Young ladies: collared (either sleeveless, short- or long-sleeved), slacks, golf skirts no more than 4” above the knee, or shorts no more than 6” above the knee.
Does my child need golf shoes?
Golf shoes are not a necessity. We do ask that all participants wear athletic shoes. Sandals and flip-flops are not considered athletic shoes and often do not provide enough support for the participants’ ankles.
What’s the role of the parent?
Parents are welcome to attend classes with the children. We only ask that parents not interfere with instruction.
Is there a parent orientation meeting?
We do not have Parent/Volunteer Orientation sessions but our Executive and Program Directors are available to speak with parents about the program and any special events.
Are we required to participate in fundraising?
Our chapter is fortunate to have a committed board of directors and partners. Participants in First Tee - Benton Harbor may be asked to attend special events to meet potential donors and/or display their golf/life skills. We encourage our parents/guardians to support these events but support is not mandatory.
What if I am having financial difficulties and cannot pay the registration fee?
We provide scholarships to those who cannot pay the registration fee.
Who do I contact with comments or concerns?
Please direct comments/concerns to the Executive Director by email,
[email protected], or call the office (269) 210-6968.
Are there attendance requirements for certification?
To participate in the certification process, a participant must attend at least 75% of the classes. Make-up sessions are provided to those who do not meet this requirement.
Need More Information?
Please email
[email protected] or call 269-210-6968 for more information.
