First Tee – Tallahassee Names Callie Kitchens as LPGA USGA Girls Golf Program Director

First Tee – Tallahassee recently announced Callie Kitchens as its new LPGA USGA Girls Golf Program Director. Kitchens, recently named by the Tallahassee Democrat as the Big Bend Preps Boys Coach of the Year, brings a proven track record of coaching excellence to the only national junior golf program that specializes in providing girl-friendly environments for juniors to learn about the game.

“Bringing Callie on board is a tremendous win for our program,“ said Chuck Urban, Founder and Chairman of First Tee – Tallahassee. “Our goal has been to expand the program, offering all youth in the region, especially girls, the chance to work with experienced coaches who will make the game of golf fun, while also teaching them valuable life skills like confidence and perseverance.”

Kitchens first started playing golf with her father when she was very young. Riding in a golf cart was what incentivized her to get on the course. Under her father’s guidance she learned how to chip and putt. Starting in 8th grade she played for North Florida Christian High School where she won districts five times as an individual and won regionals twice. She also played collegiate golf for Daytona State College and Lee University, winning a national championship at both institutions.

“I think it is important for young girls to see themselves represented in the sport, so they feel empowered to play their game with confidence,” said Kitchens. “My hope is that every girl that attends our sessions will find the game of golf fun, tell their friends about it, and continue to build their confidence to play or compete for their schools.”

Prior to joining First Tee – Tallahassee, Kitchens served as the Lincoln High School boys’ golf team coach for five years. During that time, she was named Coach of the Year twice and attributes that success to the young men she coached.

“Their hard work and dedication made me a better coach,” she said. “I was very proud to lead such a successful team in Leon County. I am thankful for the administration allowing me the privilege of working with such talented and committed athletes.”

About First Tee – Tallahassee

First Tee — Tallahassee is one of 150 First Tee chapters across the U.S. and select international locations. Its mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through the game of golf.

First Tee School Program

In more than 10,000 elementary schools across the United States, many students are teeing off for the first time thanks to the First Tee School Program, bringing our curriculum to elementary school gyms during physical education class. Through safe, fun activities, elementary students are learning the basic skills of the lifelong sport of golf. By teaching elementary students about core values and healthy habits, we’re putting them on the course to a healthy and active lifestyle.