In 1997, the LPGA became a part of another junior initiative, The First Tee, which is a cooperative effort involving the major organizations in golf under the auspices of the World Golf Foundation. The primary strength of this initiative is the direct support it has received from the game's most respected and influential organizations.

Its mission: to impact the lives of young people by providing learning facilities and educational programs that promote character development and life-enhancing values through the game of golf.

Its focus: to provide young people of all backgrounds an opportunity to develop life-enhancing values such as confidence, perseverance and judgment through golf and character education.

The LPGA is playing a leading role in the development of the national program and curriculum models for The First Tee facilities and will collaborate with The First Tee in continued development of youth programs throughout the United States.

World Golf Hall of Fame member Juli Inkster serves as co-chairman of The First Tee's More Than a Game Capital Campaign and participates in national events to support the organization. Paula Creamer and Annika Sorenstam are among several LPGA players who visit Chapters of The First Tee each year and conduct clinics.

Since its inception in 1997, The First Tee has introduced the game of golf and its values to over 3.5 million participants and students in 50 states and four countries – Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, and Singapore. Former President George Bush serves as honorary chairman.

For more information about The First Tee, please visit  www.thefirsttee.org.