How First Tee Changes Kids' Lives Through Golf

Season 2, Episode 18 - Bob Kitchen sits down with Tyler Smies, CEO of The First Tee of West Michigan, for a conversation that goes far beyond golf.

In this episode:

Tyler shares how First Tee uses the game to build character in more than 2,600 kids a year across West Michigan — with over half receiving free programming — and the pathways that turn kids into coaches, caddies, and college scholars. He also tells the incredible story of a student who went from losing his father at 13 to becoming a D1 golf coach.

Plus: Why Maple Hill's donations matter (including 160 pairs of golf shoes), how the Golf Marathon record of 370 holes in one day came to be, and how YOU can get involved.

GET INVOLVED

• Website: firstteewestmichigan.org
• Contact Tyler: tyler@firstteewestmichigan.org
• Donate equipment: drop off at the First Tee offices in Grand Rapids, Holland, Kalamazoo, or Muskegon
• Volunteer: 2 hours, once a week — no golf expertise needed

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