The First Tee, includes "Life Lessons" in its teaching program through a variety of golf-related exercises designed with the primary goal of having fun.

The First Tee has established Nine Core Values that represent some of the many inherently positive values connected with the game of golf. These Nine Core Values have been incorporated into The First Tee experience and have been used to name golf holes at several of The First Tee facilities.

1. Honesty - the quality or state of being truthful; not deceptive. Golf is unique from other sports in that players regularly call penalties on themselves.

2. Integrity - strict adherence to a standard of value or conduct. Personal honesty and independence. Golf is a game of honesty, etiquette and composure. You are responsible for your actions and personal conduct on the golf course.

3. Sportsmanship - observing the rules of play and winning or losing with grace. You must know and abide by the rules of golf and be able to conduct yourself in a respectful manner.

4. Respect - to feel or show deferential regard for; esteem. In golf it is important to show respect for yourself, your partners, your opponents and the golf course as well as for the honor and traditions of the game.

5. Confidence - reliance or trust. A feeling of self-assurance. Confidence plays a key role in the level of play that you achieve. You must have confidence in your abilities every time you play.

6. Responsibility - accounting for one’s actions. Dependable. In golf, you are responsible for yourself and your actions on the golf course. It is up to you to keep score, repair divots, rake bunkers, repair ball marks on the green and keep up with the pace of play.

7. Perseverance - to persist in an idea, purpose or task despite obstacles. To succeed in golf, you must learn to persevere through bad breaks and your own mistakes.

8. Courtesy - considerate behavior toward others. A polite remark or gesture. A round of golf should begin and end with a handshake between fellow competitors. Show courtesy toward others by remaining still and quiet while they prepare and execute a shot.

9. Judgment - the ability to make a decision or form an opinion. A decision reached after consideration. Using good judgment is critical in golf. It comes into play when deciding on strategy, club selection, when to play safe and when to take a chance, the type of shot you consider executing, as well as understanding and abiding by etiquette.

Visit www.TheFirstTee.org to learn more about its programs.

from Ladies Golf Journey - May/June 2003