We are very happy to feature Skye Mingming for our March Participant Spotlight. Skye has been a selected participant for multiple The First Tee National and Regional Opportunities, such as the Life Skills and Leadership Academy in Blaine, MN, the IJGA Academy in Hilton Head, NC., and the NorCal Leadership Academy in Monterey, CA.

Along with her younger sister Ellexis, Skye has been a participant of both The First Tee and the LPGA/USGA Girls Golf programs. Skye had the opportunity to walk inside the ropes at the LPGA Swinging Skirts with Sandra Gal.

In addition to being a participant of The First Tee, Skye serves as the Treasurer for The First Tee of Contra Costa’s Junior Leadership Council. She is currently an Eagle-level participant, and below is what she shared about her experience with The First Tee:

1. When did you start with The First Tee?

I joined The First Tee when I was 6 years old. I remember playing “Snag Golf” and I would always have a hard time taking the tennis ball off the target.

2. What is your favorite club in your bag? Your least favorite club?

My favorite club is my driver. I love the powerful feeling I get after hitting the ball off the tee. My least favorite club is my 3-wood. I am very inconsistent hitting this club and can either have a good day or a bad day with it.

3. Who would be your dream foursome (what 4 people would you like to play golf with?)

My dream foursome (present and past) in a round of golf will include Lydia Ko, Brooke Henderson, Jordan Spieth, and Arnold Palmer. These players are spectacular and have their own special abilities. It would be an honor to be able to play with them.

4. What is the best/favorite thing your coach has taught you?

The best thing my coach has taught me is that golf is a mental game. You need to have your emotions under control. Staying relax and calm is important to enjoy the game.

5. What would you tell a friend who is interested in The First Tee or golf in general?

I would tell a friend that The First Tee is a great organization which introduces golf to kids. Golf is a difficult sport, but joining the First Tee can make it easier and fun. You will learn the “Nine Core Values” – honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, courtesy and judgment – which can be used on or off the golf course. The First Tee not only works on the physical aspect of golf, but also the mental and social aspects. The First Tee also provides opportunities such as tournaments, academies, volunteer work, award ceremonies and leadership programs.

6. What is your favorite game to play during classes at The First Tee?

My favorite game to play during class is putting a golf ball closest to the hole without getting it in the hole. It is a challenging game but it works on putting speed and distance.

7. What other sports (if any) do you like to play?

I am also a swimmer. I have been a member of a summer recreation team since I was 4 years old. I am also a member of my high school’s swim team.

8. Is there anything else you would like to share?

I am proud to be a part of the First Tee of Contra Costa and am very grateful for all the experiences and opportunities.

Congratulations Skye!