Amber Mackiewicz of First Tee – Hampton Roads competing in Inaugural First Tee National Championship This Week

Amber Mackiewicz, of First Tee – Hampton Roads, competing in Inaugural First Tee National Championship This Week
Amber will showcase golf skills among 48 other teens from across First Tee network at The Walker Course at Clemson University, June 20-25

Amber Mackiewicz of First Tee – Hampton Roads, a program operated locally by the YMCA of South Hampton Roads, is proudly competing in the First Tee National Championship, June 20-25, 2021 at Clemson University.  The first-ever event with a total of 48 players will bring together First Tee’s elite golfers for an opportunity to showcase how the program has helped build the strength of character needed to play at the collegiate or next level. The tournament was postponed in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

While COVID protocols will be in effect, the 54-hole event will take place and the winners of each girls’ and boys’ divisions will be awarded with the Tattersall Cup and will also earn an exemption into the PGA TOUR Champions’ PURE Insurance Championship impacting the First Tee held at Pebble Beach Golf Links September 21-26, 2021.

“We are proud to see Amber from our area compete in this inaugural event, which will provide her with a college level experience on and off the course”, said Rebecca Shuford, Executive Director of First Tee – Hampton Roads.  “With 32 of 150 chapters selected to participate, and with Amber having been chosen as one of only 48 participants, we are excited for her to have the opportunity to showcase the spirit of determination and character that golf with the First Tee is all about! Way to go Amber!”

First Tee National Championship will be held annually at various college campuses around the nation providing First Tee participants the opportunity to network with others from across the country and take in the college experience. 

Clemson University’s The Walker Course is hosting the inaugural Championship. During the week, Amber will have the opportunity to hear from PGA Head Golf Professional Steve Scott on how his values intersected with his experience of finishing Runner-Up to Tiger Woods in the 1996 U.S. Amateur Championship.

The field includes 24 boys and 24 girls, ages 14-19, who were selected based on their golf skill, competitive golf experience and handicap. Players will come from 32 First Tee chapters across the country.

First Tee – Hampton Roads  is a youth development organization dedicated to helping young people learn life skills and build character through the game of golf. First Tee National Championship is one of more than 10 national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters to empower and motivate teens as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities. Find more information here on First Tee – Hampton Roads.