First Tee ~ First Tee – Southern Colorado will break ground Oct. 2 on a $1.2 million Youth Development Center at Valley Hi Golf Course, creating a year-round space for youth programs.

The ceremony is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. at the City of Colorado Springs-owned course. The approximately 2,000-square-foot center will replace an aging building used by the organization. Plans include two golf simulators, an indoor putting green, a multipurpose classroom, staff workspace, restrooms and storage.

The facility will support golf instruction, mentoring, leadership development and other programs. First Tee plans to expand clinics, camps and individualized instruction, double annual participation in its core youth programs, and grow its school and community partnerships.

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"This building is about so much more than golf," said Sandy Johnson, chief executive officer of First Tee – Southern Colorado. She said the center will give young people a place to build confidence, form relationships with mentors and develop skills for life beyond the course.

First Tee and the city began their partnership at Valley Hi in 2013. The organization built a practice area in 2015 and a four-hole short course the following year.

Under an agreement approved by City Council in September, the city will contribute up to $200,000 toward reconstruction costs through the Valley Hi Enterprise. First Tee will lead construction and operate the center.

Mayor Yemi Mobolade said the partnership uses golf to help young people develop confidence, character and a sense of belonging. City Council President Lynette Crow-Iverson said the project supports the Southeast Strong Neighborhood Plan by investing in opportunities for families and young people.

First Tee uses golf to teach life skills such as perseverance, goal setting, collaboration and resilience through trained coaches and mentors.

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