At First Tee – Greater Washington, DC, we believe in the power of golf to shape futures. Our scholarship program is one of the most meaningful ways we invest in the young people who have dedicated themselves to growing through this game — on and off the course.
This year, we are proud to offer four college scholarships to eligible First Tee – Greater Washington, DC participants. Each scholarship honors an incredible individual or group committed to supporting youth development, and each one is an opportunity for you to be recognized for the hard work, character, and commitment you've shown throughout your First Tee journey.
We encourage every eligible participant to apply. Your story matters, and we can't wait to read it.
You will fill out a general application, then be promoted to complete the applications for the scholarships you are eligible for.
Our 2026 Scholarships:
Dave King Scholarship
Award: Up to $5,000
Made possible by Dave King — a philanthropist and one of the most accomplished amateur golfers in the country — this scholarship reflects his deep commitment to giving back to the game and its next generation of players.
Please note: Past Dave King Scholarship recipients are not eligible to apply.
Eligibility Requirements:
· High school senior or college student as of Spring 2026
· Participated in First Tee for a minimum of 2 years at the time of application deadline - May 1st, 2026.
(if an alum, must have been active within your junior and senior year of high school and/or stayed in contact with the chapter)
Mary Doherty Memorial Scholarship
Award: $20,000 ($5,000 per year over 4 years)
Established in memory of Mary Doherty — a lifelong golfer who believed deeply in the power of the game for women — this scholarship celebrates female participants who carry that same spirit forward.
Eligibility Requirements:
· Female high school senior (Class of 2026)
· Entered in the First Tee – Greater Washington, DC participant database by January 1, 2024
· Preference given to applicants with active and longstanding involvement with the chapter
The Jonny Scholarship
Award: Amount varies
Created in 2021 to honor Jonathan Wildes — a passionate Northern Virginia golfer whose family and friends have raised over $100,000 for First Tee – Greater Washington, DC — this scholarship carries on his spirit by investing in the next generation.
Eligibility Requirements:
· High school senior (Class of 2026)
· Entered in the First Tee – Greater Washington, DC participant database by January 1, 2024
· Lives and/or attends classes at a Northern Virginia First Tee program location
· Preference given to applicants with active and longstanding involvement with the chapter
YPC Scholarship
Award: Amount varies
Funded by First Tee – Greater Washington, DC's Young Professionals Council through their annual Scholarship Scramble, this award supports college-bound participants ready to take their next big step.
Please note: Past YPC Scholarship recipients are not eligible to apply.
Eligibility Requirements:
· High school senior (Class of 2026)
· Entered in the First Tee – Greater Washington, DC participant database by January 1, 2024
· Preference given to applicants with active and longstanding involvement with the chapter
For technical support, please reach out to [email protected].
For questions regarding First Tee - Greater Washington, DC’s award offerings, please contact Katie Blodgett at [email protected].
First Tee-Greater Washington, DC is a non-profit, youth development organization designed to teach students life and leadership skills through the game of golf.
Mission: To impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values through the game of golf.