Photo courtesy of First Tee
A significant milestone is on the horizon for Phoenix’s First Tee, a nonprofit organization that tirelessly invests in the Valley’s youth. On Monday, Sept.18, they mark their 20th Anniversary with a dinner at Ocean 44 in Scottsdale.
This isn’t just any dinner. From 5 p.m., Ocean 44 rolls out the red carpet, inviting celebrities and luminaries from the golfing world to grace the event. It promises to be an evening of festivity, reflection, and optimism about the organization’s future.
Tickets for the gala start at $1,500 a plate, with options for tables accommodating between two to 12 guests. Interested parties can make their reservations at firstteephoenix.org/20anniversary.
First Tee-Phoenix’s ethos is about more than just golf. While the sport forms the nucleus of their operations, they impact over 120,000 youth annually, equipping them with life skills and character development through their golf programs. By intertwining golf with life lessons, First Tee-Phoenix offers an active learning curriculum that fosters inner strength, resilience, and self-confidence.
Danny Calihan and Robbie Petty, First Tee-Phoenix board members and ardent supporters, co-host the milestone event.
“The junior golf programs of First Tee-Phoenix are game changers,” Calihan says, emphasizing the importance of reaching more children from underserved communities. Petty echoes the sentiment, inviting everyone to “join the First Tee Phoenix Family as we honor our special founders, The Thunderbirds, and the local families we impact.”
In a generous show of community spirit, the evening’s food and beverages are fully underwritten by Dennis Mastro, Mike Mastro, Jeff Mastro, and Scott Troilo. This group’s philanthropy is well-known in the Valley, having supported numerous charity events.
Jeff Mastro voices his support: “The game of golf should be accessible to all kids. The life skills they gain from this fantastic game translate into numerous aspects of life.”
Guests can look forward to more announcements about the event, including a list of VIP attendees and celebrity guests.
For more details or to secure a spot at this landmark celebration, visit firstteephoenix.org/20anniversary.3
