Maybe it was a sign that The First Tee of Tampa Bay member of four years Fabrice Laude was born at Arnold Palmer Children’s Hospital in Orlando, which is named after one of the best golfers and philanthropists of all time. “I started playing golf at the age of 10 and I fell in love with the game immediately thereafter,” says Fabrice, now 15. Fabrice attended the 2019 Congaree Global Golf Initiative held this summer in Ridgeland, South Carolina. “The Congaree Global Golf Initiative selects high school students in the U.S. and internationally who are passionate about golf and show academic promise but may not have the means or support to fulfill their potential,” explains Fabrice. He described it as the best week he ever had in his life. “It was a week for me to meet new friends from all over the world,” he says. “I learned so much valuable information at the camp. I feel that my game took a very big jump for the better and one of the reasons wasn’t because I got rid of my 40-yard cut, but because I learned a lot about myself; my work ethics; and my perseverance on and off the golf course.” Fabrice was nominated earlier in the year and selected by the Congaree Foundation to attend. “I can say my golf game, as well as my everyday decision-making has changed for the better since joining The First Tee. I am grateful to be a part of The First Tee of Tampa Bay,” he says. The First Tee uses the game of golf to provide young people with the chance to develop life-enhancing values like confidence, perseverance and judgment. Whether through introductory programs in 130+ Hillsborough County public schools, after school programs at several local courses or week-long summer camp experiences, The First Tee teaches a series of life skills such as goal-setting, how to meet new people and staying healthy. Click here to learn more. Pictured above: (1) This summer, The First Tee of Tampa Bay member Fabrice Laude, 15, took a special trip to Ridgeland, South Carolina for the Congaree Global Golf Initiative. (2) Fabrice Laude has been a member of The First Tee of Tampa Bay for four years.