On The First Tee

Michael Pius and Jared Crane
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Promoting First Tee's mission to teach life skills through the game of golf. Updating listeners on First Tee — Upstate South Carolina's programming, events, and ways to help our youth. 

  1. FEB 26

    Episode 13: Our Second Round with Steve Goforth

    We’re excited to welcome back Steve Goforth for his second visit to On the First Tee! Steve is the Head PGA Professional at Cross Creek Plantation and host of the Goforth and Golf podcast. He brings a wealth of experience from both the teaching and playing sides of the game, along with a deep belief in golf’s ability to shape character and build strong identities in young people. In this episode, we catch up on all things Cross Creek — from the growth of First Tee programming at the club to the incredible impact of Coach Ansley and a thriving community of volunteer coaches who continue to pour into the next generation. Steve shares what it means to create a culture where kids feel welcomed, challenged, and inspired every time they step onto the course. We also dive into the Short Tee Shoot Out, a fun and uniquely formatted tournament that’s become a favorite at Cross Creek. Steve breaks down what makes the event special and why creative formats like this keep the game engaging for players of all ages. Whether you’re a coach, parent, golf professional, or someone who simply believes in the power of the game, this episode is packed with insight, encouragement, and a behind-the-scenes look at a growing golf community doing things the right way. Tune in and step On the First Tee with us!

    34 min

  2. FEB 12

    Episode 12: Coach Laura Maurer

    In this episode, we sit down with Coach Laura Maurer to share her incredible full-circle journey with First Tee — Upstate South Carolina. A former participant turned coach and proud First Tee alum, Laura’s story is rooted in growth, service, and giving back to the game that helped shape her. From attending a national First Tee opportunity as a junior to now leading the next generation as a coach, Laura has made a lasting impact both on and off the course. She also played a key role in launching our Els for Autism program and currently serves as the Dorman High School girls head coach and assistant boys coach, continuing to create opportunities for young people through golf every day. Tune in for a conversation about mentorship, leadership, and the powerful ways golf can change lives — one relationship at a time.

    38 min

  3. JAN 22

    Episode 11: January Upstate Update

    Join hosts Michael Pius, PGA and Jared Crane for another Upstate Update as we walk through everything happening across First Tee — Upstate South Carolina. Tune in for all things First Tee in the Upstate and stay connected to the mission that’s helping kids grow on and off the course.

    31 min

  4. 12/11/2025

    Episode 10: December Upstate Update

    Join hosts Michael Pius, PGA and Jared Crane for another Upstate Update as we walk through everything happening across First Tee — Upstate South Carolina. We’ll break down our 2025 programming numbers, including a big highlight: over 800 participants with continued growth in girls’ participation. We’ll also share updates on our upcoming Winter Programs, including January classes at Topgolf, plus early details on the PGATSS Leadership Series for participants age 14+ who’ve been with us for more than two years. If you’re newer to First Tee, this is something to aim for… so stick around! We’ll cover key dates too — Spring Registration opens Monday, January 26th. On the fundraising side, we’ll talk about the Golf Passport, now officially on sale, the start of our Annual Appeal, and the launch of the First Tee — Upstate South Carolina Golf Shop. You’ll also hear an update from the FORE the Future Society (formerly Young Professionals Council) and important Save the Dates for our 2026 fundraising events. Tune in for all things First Tee in the Upstate and stay connected to the mission that’s helping kids grow on and off the course.

    17 min

  5. 11/21/2025

    Episode 9: Julia Conroy and Micah Candeletta-Burklin

    In this episode, we sit down with First Tee — Upstate South Carolina participant Julia Conroy to celebrate her recent achievements, including being selected for and attending two national First Tee opportunities. We also chat with Micah Candeletta-Burklin, owner of Rana Golf, about his journey, his vision for the brand, and the impact he hopes to make in the golf community. Tune in for an inspiring blend of youth success, entrepreneurship, and the power of golf to shape lives.

    1h 4m

  6. 10/07/2025

    Episode 8: Recapping the PURE Insurance Championship – Impacting First Tee

    Join us as we dive into the excitement of the PURE Insurance Championship at Pebble Beach, CA, and its impact on First Tee. In this episode, we sit down with Paul Ancona, a First Tee – Upstate South Carolina participant who competed in the championship, to hear his firsthand experience on the course. We also chat with Jennifer Weiler, Senior Vice President of Network Relations at First Tee, about how this event helps advance First Tee’s mission and supports youth development through golf. From inspiring stories on the course to the lasting impact off it, this episode celebrates the ways the PURE Insurance Championship is shaping the future of young golfers.

    54 min

  7. 08/14/2025

    Episode 7: August Upstate Update

    Join us for the August Upstate Update as we dive into all things First Tee — Upstate South Carolina! This month, we’re sharing exciting updates on programming, fundraising, and upcoming events across the Upstate. In this episode: Programming Highlights: Fall registration is open! First Tee participants Julia and Spencer are attending national opportunities and we’re just five weeks away from the PURE Insurance Championship for Paul. Plus, get the latest on Girls Golf, PGA Jr. League All-Star highlights, and Watson Links updates. Fundraising & Events: Catch up on the YPC Member-Guest recap and hear what’s coming next, including The Core Values Cup, The Passion ‘FORE’ Fashion Show, The Cyder Cup, and the 25th Anniversary Game Changers Gala! Stay in the loop with everything First Tee Upstate – from fun events to leadership opportunities – and hear what’s on the horizon. We’ll see you on The First Tee!

    18 min

  8. 08/07/2025

    Episode 6: Pursuing Goals

    In this episode, we explore the key commitment of Pursuing Goals and our favorite techniques for achieving them. Our featured guest is Spencer Lengel, a true game changer who recently attended the First Tee Game Changers Academy and was selected for the PGA Tour Superstore Leadership Summit in Montana. Spencer shares his inspiring journey, the lessons learned from these transformative experiences, and how goal setting has fueled his growth both on and off the course. This episode also kicks off our new podcast structure. Each episode will spotlight a guest and one of First Tee’s key commitments, with our Upstate Update now coming to you later in the month as its own standalone episode. Tune in for an inspiring conversation packed with motivation, practical tips, and insights to help you pursue your own goals.

    31 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Promoting First Tee's mission to teach life skills through the game of golf. Updating listeners on First Tee — Upstate South Carolina's programming, events, and ways to help our youth. 

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Pius and Jared Crane
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 On The First Tee
  • Show Website
    On The First Tee