SAN BERNARDINO, CA — July 30, 2025 — Thirteen-year-old Camilla “Cami” Corrie, longtime First Tee – Inland Empire and LPGA*USGA Girls Golf participant, recently earned a once-in-a-lifetime spot at the “Share My Passion” Girls Golf clinic hosted by the ANNIKA Foundation at La Costa Omni Resort, led by LPGA legend, Annika Sorenstam.

“I found out there was a clinic with Annika Sorenstam through Girls Golf. My first thought was, ‘There will be so many girls trying for this opportunity, but I will just try my best to make a good video to send in and see what happens.'”

Her efforts paid off and she was one of just 40 girls chosen to attend.

The clinic proved even sweeter by the fact that Cami was 12 at the time of the clinic — the same age Annika was when she picked up the game. “My favorite story Annika told us is how she got started in golf…her parents split their irons in half to save money. Annika had odds, and her sister had evens. Coincidentally, I was 12 at the time of the clinic, and my mom and I had just done the same thing,” Cami said.

“It was awesome to be able to relate to Annika.”

Although Cami hadn’t known much about Annika before applying, she quickly did her homework. “I learned that she is basically the Tiger Woods of the LPGA,” she explained.

Watching Annika teach in person was unforgettable. “I liked what she said about dividing your playing area into a think box and a play box,” Cami relays. “You stand in the think box behind the ball prior to your shot and consider everything about the shot you are going to make, from the distance, the lie, the wind, your aim, your swing, and most importantly, visualizing a perfect shot. Then you step into your play box and go for it without second guessing!”

The experience will likely stay with Cami for a lifetime. “I felt shocked when I got chosen, and it was a big confidence booster,” she said.

“The experience taught me to always try my best and never give up…to be proud of what you have created for yourself.”

Though her goals remain the same — playing in high school and college — Cami says it “feels even more achievable now.” And she credits First Tee – Inland Empire and Girls Golf for helping shape the mindset that got her there. “They teach golf, but they also teach how to become a well-rounded person…First Tee IE and Girls Golf has sculpted me to be a better version of myself.”

From a split set of irons to a shared moment with a golf icon, Cami’s experience is a reminder of what access, mentorship and opportunity can unlock — and why First Tee – Inland Empire continues to open doors for kids with big dreams and even bigger potential.

 

Coach Devon recounts a visit to a SBCUSD Elementary School

SAN BERNARDINO, CA — Dec. 20, 2024 — In a sunlit schoolyard at Norton Elementary in San Bernardino, I watched as one of our students, Kaylee, 12, carefully lined up her shot during an afterschool golf class. She took her swing, sending the ball soaring into a net with ease. “I hope I get better today,” she said with determination.

Across the yard, Emily, 10, grinned as she recounted how golf has become her favorite part of the day.

“Every day I’m like, ‘I need to go to golf!’” she said. “My mom wants to pick me up early, but I tell her, ‘No, it’s golf today. You can’t pick me up early.’”

Kaylee and Emily are just two out of the thousands of students First Tee – Inland Empire serves in the San Bernardino City Unified School District through our in-school programming and Expanded Learning afterschool programming.

As an afterschool coach since 2022, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact we have on these kids. In the Inland Empire, where physical activity rates are among the lowest in Southern California, cost, transportation, and access often hinder participation in youth sports. In fact, according to the LA84 Foundation’s Play Equity Report:

Only 28% of Inland Empire kids meet the CDC’s guidelines for physical activity, with Black and Latino youth being the least active.

First Tee – Inland Empire combats these barriers by meeting students where they are: at school. Our program runs three schools a day, five days a week throughout the entire school year, ensuring kids like Kaylee and Emily have access to opportunities that foster both athletic and personal growth.

Kaylee’s love for the game was inspired by her grandparents:

“Golf is my favorite thing to do. My grandma and grandpa used to golf, and I wanted to play just like them.”

For Emily, golf was a new adventure: “I didn’t play before First Tee, but I wanted to try something new. Golf is a fun little hobby on top of softball.”

Both girls have gained confidence, friendships, and skills through First Tee. Kaylee proudly shared how she’s improved: “I signed up two years ago and got better each time.” I celebrated alongside her as she nailed five out of eight shots in the net, a reminder that small victories create lasting memories.

Emily, reflecting on the challenges of golf, said, “It’s kind of like obstacles after obstacles, which is kind of fun.” Her words hit home—golf, like life, teaches us to navigate new challenges with a steady swing.

By meeting kids where they’re at, in their schools and communities, First Tee – Inland Empire ensures that all children, no matter their circumstance, have access to the opportunities they deserve.

As the year comes to a close, we ask for your support in helping us continue to Build Game Changers like Kaylee and Emily. Your gift will provide more opportunities for children in need, equipping them not just with golf skills, but with the confidence, perseverance, and life skills to succeed. 

BEAUMONT, CA — Dec. 10, 2024 — When you meet Maleah Clark, it’s impossible not to be struck by her poise, passion, and dedication—qualities that shine both on and off the golf course. Maleah, a high school student, junior coach, and member of the First Tee – Inland Empire Youth Advisory Council, is a testament to the transformative power of sports and mentorship.

For Maleah, golf has always been a family affair. She vividly recalls her early mornings as a little girl, accompanying her father, Coach Karland, to the course. “When it comes to golf, my dad got me into it. I would go with him in the early morning when he would play with his friends.”

That early exposure ignited a love for the game that has only grown stronger. Maleah has spent years refining her skills, but her journey has been about more than just golf. First Tee – Inland Empire has given her access to golf facilities, tournaments, and mentorship opportunities that have shaped her into both a better golfer and a better person.

This year, Maleah celebrated a significant milestone, winning her division at the First Tee – Pasadena Chapter Cup tournament. She also participated in the prestigious TGR Invitational and the Underrated Golf Tour. Reflecting on those experiences, Maleah says, “Playing in both TGR and Underrated has helped me see and use opportunities, make new connections, and learn how to be not just a respectful golfer but a respectful person.”

First Tee has equipped Maleah with tools that extend far beyond the greens.

“One of the most important life skills I’ve learned is how to be confident while also being respectful when meeting new people and building connections”

Maleah has also learned to overcome challenges by setting and achieving goals using First Tee’s ladder method—a strategy she credits for her success on and off the course.

Looking ahead, Maleah’s sights are set on an ambitious goal: winning the 2025 Curry Cup. “First Tee has helped me stay confident and taught me how to have the right mindset,” she says, her determination evident.

When asked what she’d say to someone considering supporting First Tee, Maleah’s response is heartfelt and straightforward: “Do it. First Tee doesn’t only affect a kid’s golf life; it teaches them goals and morals they’ll use for the rest of their lives.”

Maleah’s story is one of many that highlight the profound impact First Tee – Inland Empire has on young lives. Through accessible programs, mentorship, and a commitment to character development, First Tee empowers participants to achieve their dreams and build bright futures.

As the year comes to a close, we invite you to help us continue this vital work. Your support fuels programs that teach confidence, resilience, and respect—creating opportunities for young people like Maleah to thrive.

Join us in making a difference. Together, we can ensure that every child has the chance to discover their potential and achieve greatness.