The First Tee teaches life skills and core values using golf as its context. It provides a platform to teach goal setting, opens doors for leadership opportunities, and allows youth a safe place with caring mentors to learn and thrive. Birdie participant, Meg Lavinder, is no exception to the power of our programs. At a young and mature age of 13, she seeks opportunities for growth within the sport and connects them to her school, community, and family life.
Annika FOUNDATION “Share My passion” Letter Contest
This summer, Meg mailed an letter into the Annika Foundation “Share My Passion” Letter Contest. Girls aged from 8-13 who reside in the United States are invited to write an open letter about their love of golf and why other girls should learn to play. The top 40 letters, as handpicked by LPGA Tour legend Annika Sorenstam and her selection committee, will then be invited to attend the “Share My Passion” LPGA*USGA Girls Golf clinic. And our very own Meg was one of the 40 finalists chosen.
Unfortunately, late notice of her selection prevented her from attending the event in Naples, Florida, but the LPGA*USGA Girls Golf Program highlighted her letter publicly via social media:
Thank you, Meg, for sharing your insight and your passion. The First Tee of Greater Richmond is proud of you and your work both on and off the course – you will continue to inspire girls with your positivity and encouragement.I. LOVE. GOLF. The truth is without it, I honestly don’t know where I’d be. In a town like mine, girls are expected to play softball, soccer, or basketball. But those sports just aren’t the same. On the golf course, you feel safe, no one’s gonna judge you or yell at you, or put another girl before you. Golf has given me endless opportunities. You get to meet new people, work on social skills, and work hard at getting better at this great game. It will take lots of dedication and hard work but this game can take you sooo many places. So what are you waiting for? Go hit the range! – Meg Lavinder, Age 13
To learn more about the LPGA*USGA Girls Golf Program or The First Tee of Greater Richmond’s programs, please contact: Berkley Jackson, Program Coordinator – [email protected].