A typical session starts with a check-in process led by the participants, followed by a group affirmation statement on the importance of community and the individual. Then comes the class itself, with fun, golf-related games that relate to the core values. A recap of what’s been learned follows, then a ‘bridge to life’ discussion on how this can be applied to the wider world. By the end of six weeks, the aim is that the kids will have experienced all nine core values, and the longer they stay in the programme the more these take root. “What I love about First Tee’s programme is that they are working with children to help them be stronger internally, improving their resilience which can help with their mental health,” says Lisa Huber, a registered child and adult psychologist based in Georgia.
This focus on community building and child and adolescent mental health is strongly supported by the medical profession in Georgia, and many believe for good reason. Over 60% of young people with depression in Georgia have difficulties getting treatment. “We have a mental health workforce shortage across the US and Georgia is not immune,” says Harlow-Parker. “Stigma also plays a role. Accepting mental health issues in kids is hard for people. Talking about suicide is hard.” Added to this, poverty in Georgia ranks fifth highest in the US, which can put children at risk. “That said, being surrounded by caring, trusted adults helps mitigate this,” she explains. “This is why we stress it’s the people in a child’s life that are key.”
Research shows that if a kid can lean on at least one trusted adult – someone who offers a consistent, nurturing relationship – they can prosper even through adversity. “Some kids won’t have a trusted adult in their family, but a coach can be that person,” says Harlow-Parker, which is why she trains First Tee – Metro Atlanta coaches in how to teach skills such as resilience, problem solving and emotional language.
Early intervention is also important, helping to prevent mental health conditions from developing, or instilling in kids the skills to help navigate them. “Different data sets show that the children who start out doing sports are more likely to pay attention to nutrition, continuing movement as they age,” says Huber. “And their school performance tends to better, as well as their perceived selfworth helping them become more confident about achieving their goals.”
Through CHANGE COURSE, First Tee – Metro Atlanta is aiming to get in front of these challenges. From helping the kids build their self-esteem and confidence, to reminding them that it’s not about the shot they missed, but how they recover from it, supportive coaches and relatable alumni are equipping young people with a roadmap to help them succeed on and off the golf course. “We are here to help them, every step of the way,” says Wooten.
