For the fifth year in a row women in the Shenango Valley are invited to play golf in order to support children who want to learn the game.

The First Tee of Sharon, the local chapter of the national The First Tee program, is holding its annual Ladies Tee Off Sept. 17 at the Buhl Farm Golf Course and Driving Range in Hermitage.

The First Tee offers 6- to 17-year-olds an opportunity to learn the game of golf and life skills regardless of their economic status, Carole Dunkerley, director of program activities for Buhl Farm park, said.

Golf teaches "wonderful life skills that kids can practice in their daily lives," Mrs. Dunkerley said. She said in addition to golf course etiquette children learn things like courtesy and patience that can be used any time.

There are various levels that the student golfers must pass in order to earn a certificate, Mrs. Dunkerley said.

So far 15 kids have completed each level and earned a certificate, but in the past five years more than 500 students have participated in the program.

Nationally, The First Tee has broadened opportunities for kids including scholarships, caddy programs and programs from special-needs children, Mrs. Dunkerley said. Locally, the Sharon chapter is starting to work with special-needs children, she said.

"The First Tee is one of the most fun programs because you see the rewards," Mrs. Dunkerley said. She said golf is an ageless game that children can enjoy with their parents and grandparents.

The annual ladies golf scramble is very important to the local program because The First Tee is financially independent from the Buhl Farm Trustees, Mrs. Dunkerley said. She said fund-raisers and donations are what support the program.

"It's (the scramble) exciting because here we are in our fifth year and it's still a popular event," Mrs. Dunkerley said. "The ladies go all out for this."

Tee times for the 9-hole scramble are 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Women must register in teams of four and the fee is $45. Lunch is provided as well as prizes, Mrs. Dunkerley said.

Registration forms are available at local golf courses. Information: 724-962-9648.

You can e-mail Herald Staff Writer Kristen Garrett at kgarrett@sharonherald.com

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