Impacting the Lives of Young People

South Dublin County Councils Social Inclusion Unit and Sports and Recreation Department are working in collaboration with The First Tee of Ireland in the creation of a programme for young people at Grange Castle Golf Course, Clondalkin, Dublin 22.

The First Tee of Ireland aims to impact on the lives of young people by providing learning facilities and educational programs that promote character development and life-enhancing values through the game of golf.

On Thursday 9^th August 2007, a group of eleven young people from the Towers Reception and Integration Centre in Clondalkin commenced the first program in Grange Castle Golf Course under the guidance of European Tour Professional, Ms. Hazel Kavanagh. This six-week program included young people from Russia, Israel, Bahrain, Nigeria and Lebanon. Further programs will continue in October with children from Archbishop Ryan School in Lucan and St Peter the Apostle Senior National School in Neilstown, Clondalkin.

South Dublin County Council and the First Tee of Ireland believe that this program will change the participants perception of golf by helping to open doors for those who would not have access to the game and exposure to its core values which include; confidence, respect and responsibility.

Golf Legend Jack Nicklaus is a huge advocate and supporter of the program and on a recent visit to Ireland for a fund raiser for the charity said At a time when we need to do everything we can to promote positive values in our children, particularly, thinking beyond themselves and caring for others, The First Tee has adopted that mission and is doing an excellent job.

On Thursday 27^th September 2007 at 5.30 in Grange Castle Golf Course the participants will be presented with Certificates of Achievement by Mr. John Warren, Chief Executive, The First Tee Ireland. The First Tee Ireland is supported by One51 and Ulster Bank.

For further information please contact:

Next page:

Maria Finn, Senior Staff Officer

County Hall,

Town Centre,

Tallaght,

Dublin 24

Tel: 01 414 9000 ext. 3366

Email: mfinn@sdublincoco.ie

John Warren, Chief Executive

The First Tee of Ireland,

Waterford Business Park,

Cork Road,

Waterford.

Tel: 051 845465

email: john@thefirstteeireland.org