First Tee Game Changers Academy is a transformative five-day learning and empowerment experience. Selected teens from across the U.S. will engage in meaningful discussions on self-awareness, inclusive leadership, and community building – skills they will carry with them throughout their lives. First Tee invites its partners to lead dynamic, interactive workshops, complemented by reflective activities guided by nationally trained First Tee coaches.
Read below a testimony from one of our very own First Tee – Orange County Participants, Pilar!
After going to the national opportunity, Game Changers one main thing I took away from the experience is one of the key commitments that The First Tee has taught me that I worked on the most from my trip: Building a Positive Self Identity. This has always been the one key commitment I’ve had the hardest time with, but coming back from Game Changers, I can honestly say it helped me grow so much. I felt more alive, seen, and happy than I ever had before. The people I met changed me deeply; it felt like I’d known them for years even though we’d just met. I have truly never met the most kind hearted people in my life. All 71 participates treated me with respect, kindness and cared about me as a person despite never meeting me before. Each friend I made was so supportive, genuine and asked me about myself which was the one thing that made me feel like I belonged. After the week all 71 participates from all over the country never knowing each other, because the biggest, warmest, including family that I am forever grateful to have been apart of. They truly listened and made me feel like I mattered, which meant the world to me, especially after the hard week I had before coming.
Maya Moore inspired me more than I can even explain. She’s one of the most powerful people I’ve ever met. Her story, her strength, and the way she speaks with so much honesty really stuck with me. She gave such real advice and made me feel hopeful and empowered. I could just listen to her talk for hours.
I hated leaving, because I had never felt this connected, supported, or confident in who I am. Game Changers didn’t just make me better, it helped me believe in myself, and having a more positive mindset for not only myself but others; and that’s something I’ll carry with me forever. Overall, I’d just like to sincerely thank The First Tee, my chapter, and everyone who made this experience possible.
– Pilar, 6-year FTOC Participant and Junior Coach