First Hand First Tee Experience

Brad Fryrear, CGCS

Brad Fryrear, CGCS is the superintendent at Whispering Pines Golf Club in Trinity, Texas. The course is in the process of becoming a First Tee facility. Brad first heard about The First Tee through GCSAA publications and PGA TOUR promotions.

He is responsible for the maintenance of the grounds specifically reserved for The First Tee program, about 30 acres which include a 3-hole practice course and 40,000 square feet of driving range tee space as well as all other areas at Whispering Pines Golf Club.

As a collegiate golfer, Brad gained experience working with youth providing instructional assistance with junior golf clinics. Several First Tee chapters begin their operating/programming for students long before the facility is complete. During the first 2 years, Brad assisted the PGA professionals in teaching parts of the First Tee curriculum instructing the kids on chipping, putting and ultimately on course play. He also assisted with coaching full swing practice at the driving range.

Brad said, "Without The First Tee program in our community many of our youth may not have been exposed to the specialized caliber of training The First Tee program has in place."

He advises that if you are aspiring to get involved with The First Tee that there are many companies and individuals out there willing to contribute to community based programs. The First Tee provides the structure to facilitate these personal and financial contributions.