Royal Moroccan Golf Federation Brings First Tee Program to Young People in Morocco through New Partnership

Announcement made during Trophee Hassan II and Lalla Meryem Cup Tournaments

Rabat, Morocco (April 27, 2019) – Royal Moroccan Golf Federation and First Tee announced today they are partnering to bring character-building programs to Morocco. First Tee of Morocco will become the fifth international First Tee and first on the continent of Africa. The announcement was made at Royal Golf Dar Es Salam in Rabat, Morocco today by His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid and First Tee President Greg McLaughlin. McLaughlin joined Golf Channel’s Morning Drive this past Saturday for the announcement.  First Tee has been in existence for 22 years, primarily in the United States, and has grown to approximately 150 chapters and over 1,200 program locations including four international (Canada, Japan, Korea and Mexico) chapters. “Through this partnership, we hope to introduce more young Moroccans to the game of golf while developing their confidence, life skills and values,” said His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid. “My desire is to enhance the sport’s public perception, encourage greater openness to the larger public, and ultimately create opportunities for the emergence of an elite golfer able to hoist our flag high in international competitions.” “Morocco has become an important part of the global golf community and is an excellent place to introduce First Tee programs to children in Africa,” said McLaughlin. “I have been impressed by the commitment and passion for the game during my visit here, and trust this will be a longstanding partnership for the benefit for the Moroccan community.” First Tee programs will be offered at the Royal Dar Es Salam and other locations. Coaches will be provided with formal training from First Tee’s well-established and highly regarded program. About Royal Moroccan Golf Federation Founded on March 12th of 1960 the Royal Moroccan Golf Federation’s role is to ensure, as an authority, the smooth running of the golf practice in Morocco. Beyond the organization, administration, management and development of amateur and professional golf in Morocco, it has a representative role, for sports associations or affiliated clubs, both nationally and internationally. Since January 2018, the Royal Moroccan Golf Federation is chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid. One of the main strategy direction is to broaden the base by encouraging the golf clubs all around the Kingdom to an aggressive policy of integration of young people of all social categories with as a priority, the respect of their schooling. About First Tee First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a nonprofit youth development organization whose 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 its beginning in 1997, First Tee has expanded to reach millions of young people on golf courses, in elementary schools and at other youth-serving locations. Its headquarters are in St. Augustine, Florida, USA, with programs in all 50 United States and select international locations. Media Contacts: Jane Fader, First Tee, [email protected], 904-940-4330 (U.S.) Ghizlane Haloui, Royal Moroccan Golf Federation, +212 661 112 206

Golf is Fun. Here’s Why:

More than 70% of chapter participants return to our programs. And 90% of our alumni say they’re lifelong golfers. How have we hooked them on the sport of golf? What keeps them coming back? Golf is fun!
The First Tee coaches make golf fun through games and activities such as golf Tic-Tac-Toe

5 Ways we make golf fun

1. Friends & social Experiences

Kids participate as a class where they meet others from all walks of life. They’re even taught how to properly introduce themselves to each other to help break down barriers and start having fun together! Many participants find lifelong friends [like alumni Kyle DiGiacobbe and Beau Zastrow] through The First Tee.

2. We’re outside

It’s rare you’ll find us in the classroom. We are in the business of doing, not telling. Participants are taught the game of golf through experience based learning, out on the golf course or driving range. The First Tee life skills, Nine Core Values or Nine Healthy Habits are taught through games and activities. Speaking of games….

3. Creative Games

Ever heard of zoo golf or golf tic-tac-toe? You probably have if you’re involved with The First Tee! Our coaches come up with fun and exciting games to introduce golf concepts to kids. In fact, you’ll often see foam noodles and hula hoops during a lesson.

4. Fun Golf Coaches

73% of youth stated their “enjoyment of the experience, confidence in golf ability and support of coaches/friends” as the top three reasons for staying in the program.
Our coaches are fun! They care about kids and through required training through our Coach Program,  they understand how to keep kids attention. Our golf coaches are experts in making young people feel comfortable and assure they have a positive, non-intimidating experience.

5. We make the game less intimidating

We teach participants the 3 tips for having fun:
  1. Be patient
  2. Be positive
  3. Ask for help
     

Get Started

Offered are more than 1,200 locations, The First Tee program was developed by experts in the field of positive youth development and is delivered by trained coaches. Our mission is to help prepare kids and teens from all backgrounds for success in all areas of life. Chapters offer full scholarship or reduced fee programming for those with financial need. Find a Chapter

The First Tee’s Top 3 Benefits of PE and Playing Sports

NSP 6When school starts, the exercise and fitness shouldn’t stop. Experts agree that physical activity is essential to young people, and physical education helps instill the importance of playing sports and being active. That’s why The First Tee National School Program introduces golf, values and healthy habits to elementary students during PE classes.  

Here are a few benefits of PE programs and playing sports:

 

1. Improved Physical Fitness and Health

The most obvious benefit of PE is that physical activity helps develop healthy bones, joints, muscles and fend off obesity. According to Phit America, PE “prepares children to be physically and mentally active, fit and healthy for life.” The First Tee National School Program is designed to engage students in daily lesson activities that lead to motor skill development and emphasize making healthy choices in life.

2. Strengthened Interpersonal Skills and Peer Relationships

Physical education and sports can help build a young person’s confidence and social interactions. One of The First Tee Nine Core Values is respect and the importance of showing respect for oneself, playing partners and fellow competitors. Students build an appreciation for the positive personal and social values associated with the game with each lesson.  

3. Improve student performance in academics

Research shows that healthy activity helps strengthen and stimulate a young person’s mind. Studies indicate increased fitness and sports activities leads to improved academics and attention spans. Physical education also helps students build self-discipline and personal goal-setting. Are you an advocate for the health of your children and your community? Learn more about bringing The First Tee to your child’s elementary school.

About The First Tee National School Program

Currently introduced to more than 9,000 elementary schools, The First Tee National School Program creates an environment where young people are introduced to the lifelong sport while learning the basic golf motor skills and the inherent values of the game. Southern Company logoThanks to the support of Southern Company, The First Tee’s Education Patron, the National School Program will be implemented in 1,000 schools by 2017 in the communities served by Southern Company operating companies: Alabama Power, Georgia Power, Gulf Power and Mississippi Power.