Evan Ryan From The First Tee of Massachusetts Earns National Designation of The First Tee Scholar - Class of 2013

Norton, MA — Evan Ryan, from The First Tee of Massachusetts, has earned the national designation of The First Tee Scholar - Class of 2013.

The First Tee recently announced that 101 young people from across The First Tee Network were chosen for this distinguished honor.

Ryan, a home schooled student and a native of Norton, has been involved with The First Tee of Massachusetts since its inception in 2003. He has participated in all aspects of TFT programming and has even spent many hours serving as a mentor to many of the young participants in The First Tee of Massachusetts.

A long-time member of MGA Links at Mamantapett (www.mgalinksgolf.com), Ryan finished out his high school golf career this past fall as captain of the Norton High School golf team.

"We are very excited for Evan and are proud of his accomplishments," said Joe McCabe, executive director of The First Tee of Massachusetts. "Evan has matured on and off the golf course and he comes from a great family."

The First Tee Scholars Program recognizes participants for exceptional achievement in academics, leadership, character development and chapter and community involvement. Applications are accepted once per year from seniors in high school who meet the minimum requirements and are scored by an independent committee.

Since 2003, the Scholars Program has designated 521 scholars and funded 100 scholarships worth more than $900,000. More than 20 colleges and universities throughout the United States have partnered with The First Tee to offer merit-based or leadership scholarships that help to offset the cost of attending school.

"This is not only a great accomplishment for Evan, but it speaks volumes about the opportunities that The First Tee and MGA Links can provide to so many kids," said Pete Walsh, head golf professional at MGA Links. "Our program is able to give so many kids exposure to the game and help them learn it the correct way."

Congratulations to Evan Ryan on his selection to The First Tee Scholars – Class of 2013!!!