FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: First Tee – Athens Celebrates Launch and Announces Inaugural Executive Director

August 13, 2024 – Athens, GA – First Tee, a leading youth development organization based in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, that leverages the game of golf to impart essential life skills, is proud to announce the official launch of its Athens chapter, First Tee – Athens. The chapter officially commenced operations on August 1, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s mission to inspire and empower young people through golf.

The chapter launch is the culmination of a dream shared by David Denham, a member of the University of Georgia’s 2005 National Championship Golf Team and two-time All-American golfer, and the late Ed Hoard, PGA Master Professional and Rules Official, and supported by his wife, Kathy Hoard. Denham reignited the efforts begun by the Hoards and united like-minded individuals, including the founding Board of Directors, to establish First Tee – Athens. This group’s legacy will continue to influence and inspire the next generation of golfers in Athens and the surrounding communities.

Denham serves as the chapter’s first Board president and is joined by Board members Oliver Pryor, Jason Hodge, Clay Alliston, John Rooker, John Parker, Katherine Maxey, Mandy Bernt, Mark Jennings, and Kelly McCabe. The chapter’s leadership and experience in the golf community will provide invaluable support as First Tee – Athens embarks on its journey to make a positive impact on local youth.

In addition, Rich Alvarez has been appointed as the inaugural Executive Director of First Tee –Athens, effective August 1, 2024. Alvarez brings a wealth of experience in youth sports management and community development. His leadership will be instrumental in guiding the chapter’s programs and ensuring its success in fostering young talent and leadership.

Rich Alvarez, Executive Director of First Tee – Athens stated: “I am honored to lead First Tee – Athens and excited to work with the Athens area to create opportunities for our youth. Golf is more than just a game; it’s a platform for teaching essential life skills and values. I look forward to building a strong, inclusive program that will positively impact the lives of young people in Athens and the surrounding communities.”

Alvarez joins First Tee – Athens with more than 22 years of leadership in nonprofit management and youth sports programs. His previous roles have included National Manager, Community Engagement & Philanthropic Giving for PGA TOUR Superstore and Director of Development and Strategic Partnerships at First Tee – Metro Atlanta. Rich’s commitment to fostering positive youth development through sports and education aligns perfectly with First Tee’s mission.

David Denham, Board President of First Tee – Athens commented: “Golf has been a significant part of my life since I was a young boy, profoundly shaping who I am today. It has opened doors to educational opportunities and scholarships, career growth and meaningful friendships. Through First Tee – Athens, I am eager to share these experiences with youth throughout the Athens area and provide them the opportunity to enjoy the game of golf and build character on and off the course.”

First Tee – Athens will offer a variety of programs designed to teach life skills and core values through the sport of golf. These programs are aimed at providing a supportive and inclusive environment where young individuals can build confidence, character, and a strong sense of community.

To celebrate the launch, First Tee – Athens will host community events throughout the Fall. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in introductory golf clinics, meet the First Tee

– Athens team and learn more about the chapter’s programs and goals. First Tee – Athens will begin programming early in the Spring of 2025.

For additional information about First Tee – Athens and upcoming events, please visit www.firstteeathens.org or contact via email at [email protected].

About PGA TOUR First Tee Foundation (“First Tee”)

First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth development organization that is supported by the PGA TOUR. Its mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through the game of golf. Since 1997, First Tee has expanded to reach millions of kids annually through its network of 150 chapters, 11,000 schools and 1,900 youth centers. Headquartered in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA, programs are delivered in all 50 United States and select international locations. President George W. Bush serves as Honorary Chair.

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