Focused on inclusive leadership, the event brings together 72 teens from across the country, encouraging them to elevate their voices and lead change in their communities. 

MINNEAPOLIS (July 17, 2026) – The 2026 First Tee Game Changers Academy Honoring Joe Louis Barrow Jr. returns to Minneapolis, bringing together 72 teens from across the U.S. for a workshop designed to challenge them to elevate their voices, embrace their differences and become advocates for positive change in their communities. 

First Tee’s longest-running participant event takes place July 18–22, 2026, with participants staying on campus at the University of Minnesota while taking part in a week of dynamic workshops, reflective activities and immersive golf experiences, including a round at the storied Interlachen Country Club, host of the 2008 U.S. Women’s Open. 

Headlining the week’s welcome event at the Target Center will be keynote speaker Kellie Wells Brinkley, an Olympic bronze medalist. The conversation will focus on the impact of coaching and lessons in leadership, covering her experience from athlete to sports business executive.  

“Game Changers Academy aims to equip participants with the confidence, character and skills needed to lead in their communities,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “We are deeply grateful to AWS, 3M Open and Topgolf for their steadfast commitment to this program and to the next generation of leaders.” 

The itinerary includes hands-on leadership workshops, as well as trips to Topgolf and the 3M Open, where the teens will participate in a clinic led by First Tee Ambassador Austin Smotherman, an alumnus of First Tee – Greater Sacramento and PGA TOUR player. 

AWS, 3M Open and Topgolf are proud partners of the event. In addition to financial support, representatives from the organization will lead activities and facilitate sessions throughout the week. 

First Tee is a youth development organization that uses golf as a vehicle to build character and life skills. The Game Changers Academy is open to teens participating in First Tee chapters nationwide, with participants selected through a competitive application process. It’s one of a full slate of First Tee national participant events focusing on topics like competitive golf, community service and leadership.