Kids hit fairways, learn social skills too

On Saturday morning, when most children are huddled around the television for cartoons, kids in The First Tee program at Brechtel Memorial Park Golf Course in Algiers have a different agenda.

As many children relish time to lounge in PJs, kids with The First Tee don dapper golf gear, and with putters in hand, head out to the greens.

The First Tee, an initiative started by the World Golf Foundation, strives to build character in youth through golf, organizers said.

"We want to help them develop social skills they can use throughout their lives," said Jimmy Headrick, executive director of The First Tee's New Orleans chapter.

The First Tee, an organization with chapters around the globe, opened its New Orleans chapter in 2004.

Hurricane Katrina put the program on hold until March.

"We were using Bartholomew Golf Course (in New Orleans), but they have not reopened since the storm. Now we're here at Brechtel," Headrick said.

"Right now the city has 72 holes that are unusable. That's really unfortunate," Headrick said.

But no matter the circumstances, the children don't seem to mind.

At a recent session, the students, mostly ages 7 through 9, stood in a tight line as Headrick introduced a new volunteer.

"This is Mr. Greg Bicket. He's going to be working with us this morning," Headrick said. "Everyone introduce yourselves."

Then one by one, Bicket went down the line as each child shook his hand and made their introductions.

"I bumped into Jimmy one day on the course and he told me they needed volunteers," Bicket said.

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"My dad worked with me, showing me the fundamentals, always practicing. I'm just trying to pass that on," Bicket said. "Plus, the balance of life skills and academics is very impressive."

While the participating children are not required to maintain a certain grade-point average, Headrick said most are academic standouts.

"My goal is to have about 75 percent with a 3.0 grade-point average," Headrick said.

After the meet-and-greet with Bicket, the students got down to business. They practiced for their first round of testing to attain the Par level, the first of three levels through which the students move. The next two are Birdie and Eagle.

To move from each level, students must complete a test of both social skills and golf skills.

Fred Frederickson, director of golf at Brechtel, helped the children prepare for their first test.

"When you are introducing yourself, you should look directly at the other person and reach out to shake his or her hand. True or False," Frederickson said.

"True," the children shout in unison.

Kevin Farris, father of Caleb, said, "When I read about the program in the paper I knew I wanted Caleb to be involved.

"We were very lucky to get in," Farris said.

In fact, all 100 openings were filled within one hour.

"Turning people away was really difficult," Headrick said. "But that just shows how great of an opportunity this is."

While the children may not yet realize the opportunity, they certainly are having a grand time.

"I really like to work on my grip. And I like to hit balls when I'm here," Caleb said.

Headrick said, "I am convinced that we will see the next mayor of New Orleans come out of this program."

Headrick is in constant search of volunteers. If you are interested, call him at (985) 381-9667.