36 girls from across the U.S. gather in Ponte Vedra Beach to connect with female executives from PGA Tour, Johnson & Johnson, CapTech and more

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. (Oct. 8, 2026) – Thirty-six teens have gathered in Ponte Vedra Beach for the five-day program designed to help girls build self-confidence, expand their networks and learn to advocate for themselves and others — on the golf course and beyond. The annual female empowerment event will feature a golf activity, volunteer project and interactive sessions with keynote speakers.

During the event, participants take part in a golf activity alongside adult female mentors in a variety of fields, engage in interactive workshops facilitated by leaders at the PGA Tour, Johnson & Johnson and CapTech and take part in a volunteer opportunity at the Delores Barr Weaver Therapeutic Equestrian Center.

“First Tee is proud to offer an event to teen girls across our network who are learning about themselves, leadership and making lifelong connections through the game,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of First Tee. “This event – in its ninth year – continues to be an important time for us to surround them with powerful female leaders and mentors who share their journeys and inspire these teens toward meaningful futures.”

The program reinforces First Tee’s commitment to empowering girls through its programs, which are offered through 150 chapters across the country. Most First Tee chapters provide dedicated programming for girls, intentionally inviting and engaging them in a variety of opportunities.

“The First Tee Girls’ Academy is a vital initiative that helps young women build confidence, strengthen their leadership skills, and create meaningful connections,” said Katie Goepel, PGA Tour Vice President of Executive & Business Operations and a keynote speaker at the event. “I am honored to be part of this program, particularly because I have benefited from the guidance and support of so many great leaders and mentors throughout my career. Having the opportunity to pay that forward and help inspire the next generation of leaders is a privilege.”

Participants were selected for the First Tee Girls’ Academy through a national application process based on essays, letters of recommendation and involvement in First Tee and other activities. It is one of a full slate of participant events, ranging from golf tournaments to leadership workshops. For more information, visit https://firsttee.org.