About

Bill Hyndman grew up playing in golf events run by First Tee’s predecessor organization, the Greater Philadelphia Scholastic Golf Association. Bill holds the GPSGA Scholastic Tournament low score record of 67, which was posted at Cobbs Creek Golf Club in 1988. He graduated a distinguished Military Graduate from the University of Richmond, where he played on the Division I golf team. Bill is an avid golfer and skier who has a passion for vintage car restorations. Bill lives in Bucks County, Pennsylvania with his wife and two sons.

Bill is a 12-year Army veteran who served as a Blackhawk helicopter pilot, company commander, and personnel officer in the prestigious 82nd Airborne Division. He received three Meritorious Service Medals during his service in the Army. After transitioning from the military, Bill joined Comcast, where he served as Area General Manager and later joined Comcast University to lead Technical Operations Learning and Development. He joined First Tee of Greater Philadelphia as Executive Director in 2015 and has overseen the expansion of the chapter since then.

Bill’s favorite core value is Perseverance. He believes that many things in life have been a challenge, but he has experienced great joy in sticking out those obstacles to climb to the top of the mountain. As the legendary Jim Valvano said in his 1993 ESPYs speech, “Never give up. Don’t ever give up.”

If Bill was told to stay in one place for the rest of his life, he would choose the German Alps.

Maggie Farrell grew up in Newtown Square, PA, but learned how to play golf at Eagles Mere Country Club in the Endless Mountains of Pennsylvania.  Some of her fondest memories include playing on the course with endless mountain views and watching tournament after tournament on TV with her Dad. 

Maggie graduated from The University of Pittsburgh in 2015 with degrees in both Communications and Psychology. She was introduced to the world of sports-based, youth development shortly after she graduated and has called that her passion ever since. She has previously worked for the Philadelphia Phillies and came to the world of golf via baseball. Between her time with the Phillies and before moving back to Philadelphia, Maggie was a Program Manager for the First Tee of Greater Washington, DC. She spent three awesome years in DC but is excited to be home doing what she loves. Maggie joined First Tee of Greater Philadelphia as the Program & Events Manager in March 2020.  

Maggie’s favorite core value is Integrity with Confidence coming in as a close second. She loves Integrity because who you are and what you believe defines everything you do. Confidence is a close second because since starting her work with First Tee, Confidence has been the core value that she has practiced and worked on the most in her daily life. Maggie’s favorite part of her job is interacting with participants every single day and creating relationships that have an incredible impact on her life.

If Maggie could have a superpower, she would choose to be a wizard so she could apparate. Just like Harry Potter, Maggie could appear in any given location just by thinking about it.

Danielle Carr grew up in Abington, PA and was a participant in the Kids on the Hill (KOTH) Summer Program through the Police Athletic League. Golf has been a huge part of her life. Danielle’s entire family plays, but she says her dad is her biggest mentor and supporter of her and the game.

Danielle has a Bachelors of Science of Business Administration (BSBA) with a concentration in Accounting from East Carolina University and a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) from Temple University. She started her career in Public Accounting in November of 2019 and joined First Tee — Greater Philadelphia as the Business Manager in August of 2020. Her favorite part of her job is the people she feels privileged to work with and the diversity in her daily activities.

Danielle’s favorite core value is Honesty. She believes in always telling the truth because it also relates directly to her accounting background and responsibilities associated with her job. When she was 15 years old, Danielle started coaching for KOTH and when First Tee adopted KOTH in 2017 she joined the team as a coach. She mentored the young people in the program through her summers in college and time at Temple.

If Danielle could be any color in a 64-pack of Crayola Crayons, she would be Purple Mountain’s Majesty.

Kyle Spaulding grew up in Philadelphia, PA and was introduced to the game of golf as soon as he could walk. His father put a club in his hand and Kyle never let go. He loves the game because there is always an ongoing challenge to get better. 

Kyle began his time with First Tee — Greater Philadelphia in middle school, during an in-school visit. He then joined the program in 2012 and remained a student until graduating from Central High School in 2016. He graduated from Bloomsburg University in 2020. While there, he played football for four years as a Wide Receiver and served as a Board of Governors Scholar. During his four years of college, Kyle spent his summers working at The ACE Club, home of The First Tee Invitational, as an Outdoor Services Attendant. Coming full circle, Kyle joined the staff as a Coach and Intern in summer of 2018 and now we are excited to have him full-time as a Program Manager in December of 2020.

Kyle’s favorite part of his job is implementing new and creative strategies to engage more young people with First Tee programming, so that they may grow into incredible young adults. His favorite core value is Perseverance, because he believes that everything he has done in his life so far has required consistent effort. Kyle believes that regardless of obstacles faced, if he continues to persevere, he will reach the levels of success he plans to attain.

If Kyle could be any color in a 64-pack of Crayola Crayons, he would choose Red.

Jake Norton grew up in snowy Syracuse, NY, but is a Philadelphian by way of The University of Pennsylvania. He graduated from Penn with a B.S. in Economics with a concentration in Finance. After graduation, Jake served as an AmeriCorps VISTA with New Kensington Community Development Corporation. After his time as a VISTA, he transitioned to a full-time position as a Commercial Corridor Manager. His work at NKCDC focused heavily on community outreach with local businesses.

Jake grew up near a 9-hole golf course and spent much of his time in his summers growing up at the local course. He picked balls at the driving range and assisted with events and tournaments. A lifelong athlete, Jake always had a love for the game of golf. He thinks the difficulty of the sport, the ability to play forever, and the serenity of playing a round on a beautiful Saturday afternoon is what drives his passion for the sport. 

Joining the team in March of 2021, Jake is excited to get to work with the young people and positively impact them just as the game has impacted him. Respect is Jake’s favorite core value, because he believes that we should always treat others the way we want to be treated.

If Jake could be any color in a 64-pack of Crayola Crayons, he would choose Cyan.

Anthony Hoffman grew up in Northeast Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He learned the game of golf while playing with his Dad at John F. Byrne Golf Club, where he is now the Golf Course Manager.  After playing golf at Roman Catholic High School as an All-Catholic Golfer for four years, Anthony went on to play at Chestnut Hill College. While in college, he came back to his high school home course and worked at Walnut Lane Golf Club.

Anthony graduated from Chestnut Hill College and shortly after joined the team full-time as a Program Manager in 2017. After years of coaching and growing the PGA Jr. League, the National School Program (NSP), and DRIVE Anthony was promoted to Golf Course Manager in 2019, when First Tee of Greater Philadelphia took over operations at John F. Byrne Golf Club.

Anthony’s favorite core value is Perseverance. He believes it is an important skill to have on and off the golf course because it can help you navigate the game of life. Anthony’s passion is growing the game of golf among young people and that’s also his favorite part of his job.

If Anthony was told to stay in one place for the rest of his life, he would choose the Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina.

Joe Diacovo, Superintendent at John F. Byrne Golf Club, grew up right here in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Joe began his career in the golf industry in 2004, when he asked the staff at John F. Byrne if he could join the grounds crew. He was infatuated with the game of golf at the time, couldn’t get enough, and wanted to play at no cost. Joe never thought golf would be his career path.

Joe has spent most of his career at John F. Byrne Golf Club; however, he did spend a few years at Cobbs Creek Golf Club as an Assistant Superintendent. Joe carries a two-year Turfgrass Certificate from Rutgers University that he completed at the top of his class in 2008. Joe was adopted by First Tee when First Tee of Greater Philadelphia took over operations at John F. Byrne Golf Club.

Joe believes that with Responsibility comes accountability. He appreciates the core value of Responsibility because it carries a sense of pride from a job well done. Joe’s favorite part of his job is the satisfaction of good work with all factors being considered. If and when all goes according to plan, being able to look at the course as a whole and seeing a product others will enjoy is a joy.

If Joe could have a superpower, he would choose to be just like Bruce Banner, also known as The Hulk.

Sean Ketchum graduated from The Golf Academy of America in Orlando, FL in April 2006 and has called First Tee his place of work ever since. Sean is originally from Washington, DC, and found his love of the game through his father and an unfortunate shoulder injury while playing baseball as a kid. Before finding golf, Sean was a baseball fanatic and has continued to love the game because of its rich history, different courses, and the mental battle one goes through on the course.

Sean began his career with First Tee after randomly joining a foursome with the First Tee of Washington, DC Board President during an outing. He spent six years as Program Director in our nation’s capital and joined First Tee of Greater Philadelphia in April 2012. Sean served as a Program Director until September of 2016 when he transitioned to Director of Golf. In his current role, Sean oversees operations at both Walnut Lane Golf Club and John F. Byrne Golf Club.

Sean’s favorite part of his job is seeing participants excited to play the game and visiting the golf courses. The core value he practices most is Responsibility. Sean knows there are a lot of moving parts to a golf operation and different situations arise every day. He takes pride in being able to handle any situation in a responsible and confident manner.

If Sean were told to stay in one place for the rest of his life, he would choose a Tropical Island. Any of them would do.

Joe Alvaré grew up in Lower Merion Township and is a graduate of Lower Merion High School. He is a graduate of The Pennsylvania State University with a degree in Agricultural Business Management and a certificate in Turfgrass Management, which he earned with Distinction.

Joe first got involved with the game of golf when his boss bought him a set of golf clubs so that he could generate business. He believes that golf is the perfect fit of athletics and the industry allows him to put his education to use. Joe first heard about First Tee — Greater Philadelphia through PAGCS and joined the team as Superintendent at Walnut Lane Golf Club in November 2020.

Joe’s favorite part of his job is working outside. He believes that golf courses provide habitats for different wildlife and benefit the environment, especially in an urban setting. Perseverance is his favorite core value, because he believes that success comes through hard work and dedication.

If Joe could have a superpower, he would be able to fly.

Julian is a Junior at Roman Catholic High School, where he also stars on the golf team.

Julian’s favorite core value is Respect because it can relate to every core value in some way. Respect is a value that leads to opportunities. It is easy to give and others appreciate it when treated with respect.

Julian describes himself as motivated, he is extremely dedicated to the game of golf and improving the lives of young individuals!

Dakota is currently attending Creative and Performing Arts High School, where she hopes to become a musician, singer, composer, and songwriter. 

If Dakota could live anywhere in the world for the rest of her life, she would like to be surrounded by the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles! Her favorite core value is Perseverance because she has persisted through life in ways no one else could. Dakota wants to show young people that anything is possible.

Gary graduated from Shippensburg University and worked as a relationship manager working with community banks for the last 20 years. He has spent a lifetime teaching and coaching kids. Gary feels young people are our society’s most valuable asset and the most important age group with which to care for and share his knowledge, skills and life experience.

Gary is a devoted grandfather, and if he could pick one place to stay the rest of his life, he would pick West Chester, PA, to spend more time with his grandchildren!

Gary’s favorite core value is Courtesy. He believes that considerate behavior that puts others first is how we should always treat each other, and he looks to instill that in kids that come through First Tee.

Frederick is an NFL legend, playing in the league for 11 seasons as a Tight End with the New York Jets, Chicago Bears, and New England Patriots. He is a Super Bowl XXXVIII Champion, winning the Lombardi Trophy with the Patriots. He also holds a degree in education and says his true passion in life is to coach!

In addition to his superpowers on the football field and the course, Frederick would like the ability to fly. 

Frederick’s favorite core value is judgment, because it demonstrates an attitude toward education, learning, and being informed by achieving or exceeding and maintaining the minimum educational requirement.

Mike earned a Bachelor in Science in Education from West Chester University. He is a former professional baseball player and coach. He has instructed players for three different Major League Baseball Organizations.

Mike’s favorite core value is integrity. Doing what is right when no one is watching is something he lives his life by and he hopes he can teach kids the same value. 

If Mike could have any superpower, he would pick the ability to end world hunger, as he views this as one of society’s biggest problems at the moment.

Tai Crutchfield attended Philadelphia University for his final two collegiate seasons after transferring from Arizona State University,where he went on to become the fastest player in school history to score 1000 points. He played for Hall of Fame coach Herb Magee, who is known universally as the “shot doctor'”. After setting and breaking multiple records in scoring, 3-point shooting, rebounds, blocks and steals at Philadelphia University, Crutchfield entered the 2001 NBA draft and was taken by the New Jersey Nets. After a few stints with NBA and NBDl teams, Crutchfletd decided to accept a contract playing in the ACB in Malaga, Spain. He remained playing throughout Europe for a few seasons where he won multiple championships and MVP awards throughout his stellar career.

After retiring in 2015, Crutchfield began working closely with the youth throughout Chester County where he resided, by volunteering at the YMCA, and other non-profit organizations such as PAPA (Phoenixville Area Positive AltematNes) and PAW( (Phoenixville Marian Youth Club) where he taught and coached youth basketball. Crutchfield also worked for Phoenixville e Area School District as an In-School Suspension and Resource Teacher. In 2016 Crutchfletd moved to Elkins Park where he accepted a job working for Cheltenham Area School District as a teacher. Commonly known throughout the Elkins Park Schoof hallways as “Mr. Tai” the kids have really embraced his presence in the school and throughout the community. He has voluntarily done basketball camps and shooting clinics at Wall and Reminger Park for the kids during his off time in the summer. Carefully bonding and creating an impactful impression on students and parents throughout the district.

Joe Garstka, M. Ed.

Assistant Professional/Jr. Golf Coordinator

Joe has an extensive background having worked with youth of all ages and in various environments.  Joe received his Master’s in Elementary Education at Holy Family University. He currently works at Makefield Highlands as the Assistant Pro and Jr. Golf Coordinator.

He is considered a “Recognized Coach” through The First Tee Coach Training – having completed three levels of certification.  Joe’s focus as a coach is “to engage learners through fun experiences and encourage ongoing learning, character development, and self-improvement.”

Ryan is from Altoona, PA where he started playing golf at the age of two at Scotch Valley Country Club. While attending Altoona Area High School, he was captain of both his soccer and tennis teams. During his junior and senior years, he won the District 6 Doubles Tennis title and went on to complete at the state level. Currently, Ryan is a senior at Saint Joseph’s University majoring in Marketing and Business Administration. There he is a member of the Gaelic Football team, a mentor for the AIM early move-in program, and an ambassador for off-campus living.

Ryan joined The First Tee in the spring of 2018 and has thoroughly enjoyed working with those who are interested in learning to play golf.  “The First Tee is a huge opportunity for kids to learn golf fundamentals and basic life lessons all while having a great time with coaches that love the game.”

In his free time, Ryan caddies at Huntington Valley Country Club. He enjoys playing golf, fishing and hunting, and cheering for the Pittsburgh professional sports teams.

Jenny Hegelein is a Junior at Saint Joseph’s University studying Communications and Digital Media. She’s from rural Southampton NJ, and loves the outdoors and being active. Growing up, she played multiple sports and then found her passion in dance. Jenny has an extensive history working with children; she taught Sunday School at Fellowship Alliance Chapel in Medford NJ for 6 years. While she was in the Senior Company at Today’s Dance Center, she also helped teach younger dancers and assisted backstage during performances. Jenny is excited to be a part of The First Tee and to continue working with children and integrating core values and morals into sports. Her favorite part of coaching is seeing how The First Tee helps children not only to improve their golf skills, but also teach life lessons that apply outside of the course.

Louis Kelly Jr. is an American golfer who turned professional in 2016. He is a former member of The First Tee – Philadelphia. In 2011, Louis attended Adelphi University where he claimed the NE-10  Championship in 2012, his freshman year. Louis was also named NE-10 First-Team All-Conference during the 2012-13 season.

After his Junior year at Adelphi University, he transferred to Louisiana and became a key factor for the University of Louisiana at Lafayette golf team. In the Fall of 2016, he graduated from UL-Lafayette with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing.

Louis Kelly Jr. was born on February 6, 1993, in Willingboro, New Jersey to Mr. Steven and Gail Kelly. He has two younger brothers, Spencer and Shane.

Growing up in South Jersey,  Louis developed his love of golf from his grandfather. Ever since his grandfather introduced the game of golf to him, he has never turned back. Louis Kelly’s goal is to one day play on the PGA tour and give back to his community reaching others through golf.

When he isn’t perfecting his craft or playing in a tournament, you can find Louis with his favorite fishing pole sitting by the water waiting to catch anything that swims by. He often calls himself the “Bass Master”. Louis also enjoys traveling, reading, and attending his brothers sporting events.

Scott was born in Greensburg, PA and has been a member of Whiford Country Club for 41 years. He graduated from Penn State University with a BA and MBA. He was also the captain of the golf team. Scott served in the United States Navy for 3 years and was stationed in Tonkin Gulf. He has been a volunteer for GAP and PA Golf for the last 20 years and also serves on the Gap board. He is currently the coach of Downingtown East Boys and Girls golf teams and the assistant basketball coach there as well.

If Scott could stay anywhere in the world for the rest of his life he would pick his home. He would then stock his fridge full of coffee swirl ice cream, his favorite flavor.