Open to the public, a grand opening ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, September 19 at Legacy Golf Club from 10 am – 12 pm with registration beginning at 9:45. The festivities kick off with speeches from Kevin Terry, Tim Kloenne, The First Tee of Phoenix Board Chairman; Rich Strozewski, Legacy Golf Club General Manager, and William Booth, Legacy Golf Club’s Head Professional.

“We’re thrilled to welcome The First Tee of Phoenix to Legacy,” said Strozewski. “The First Tee programming will add to our already expansive junior programs that share The First Tee’s mission to promote junior golf and the life lessons children can learn from the sport.”

After the speeches, attendees will enjoy a performance from trick-shot specialist Craig Hocknull of Outback Golf Academy, and perennial long-drive competitor Mitch McDowell. In addition, the event will have junior instruction, group clinics, games, give-a-ways and lunch for all in attendance.

To learn more or donate to The First Tee of Phoenix, visit www.thefirstteephoenix.org

About The First Tee of Phoenix

The First Tee of Phoenix is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created by The Thunderbirds for the purpose of providing affordable access to golf and golf learning facilities for young people in Maricopa County from all walks of life, particularly those who otherwise might not have an opportunity to play.  As one of the largest chapters in The First Tee Network impacting more than 100,000 youth annually, The First Tee of Phoenix offers classes, special monthly family events and tournaments as part of its programming.  Now with 14 locations in the Valley – Talking Stick, Legacy, Desert Mirage, Papago, Falcon Dunes, Longbow, Lone Tree, Cave Creek, Encanto, Maryvale, Augila, Palm Valley and Augusta Ranch – The First Tee of Phoenix programming sites serve as conveniently located places for participants to learn valuable life skills and character-building lessons through creative activities and instructional programs that incorporate the fundamental teachings of golf.  For more information on The First Tee of Phoenix call 602-305-7655, or visit www.thefirstteephoenix.org.

About The Thunderbirds

The Thunderbirds were founded in 1937 with the mission of promoting the Valley of the Sun through sports.  Consisting of 55 “active” members and more than 250 “life” members, The Thunderbirds host the Waste Management Phoenix Open; the best-attended golf tournament in the world, which to date has raised more than $100 million for Valley charities, including The First Tee of Phoenix. With its unmatched fan participation and rich history dating back more than 80 years, the Waste Management Phoenix Open has gained legendary status for being a unique stop on the PGA TOUR. For more information on The Thunderbirds or the Waste Management Phoenix Open visit www.wmphoenixopen.com.

About Legacy Golf Club

Named the “#1 Public Course in Phoenix” by ESPN.com, the Legacy Golf Club is rich in heritage and history.  The former setting of Dwight B. Heard’s 7,500-acre ranch from the early 1900s, Legacy has taken great pride in preserving the remaining structures and monuments along its 18 hole championship golf course, giving golfers an added opportunity to experience a taste of Arizona history and the Heard legacy.  The course was the host site for the 2000 LPGA Standard Register Ping Classic, and is also a regular stop for the All-American Gateway Tour, Pepsi Tour, Cactus Tour, and a host to NJCAA and NCAA tournaments.  Designed by renowned golf course architect, Gary Panks, Legacy’s lush green fairways, forgiving rough, well-placed hazards and manicured greens offer a challenge for golfers of all skill levels.  In 2015, the course was rated #1 in the nation on Golf Advisor for best overall conditions and customer service based on player reviews.

In 2013, Legacy opened the Legacy Golf Performance Center, a 7,500-square-foot building completely dedicated to teaching the game of golf.  stocked with the latest teaching technology used by the game’s best, the world-class professionals at the Legacy Golf Performance Center blend technology with proven techniques that make players better faster than ever before.  From beginners to touring professionals, this facility has quickly become the premier learning center in Arizona.