Watson Links

Championing on-course play and golf mentoring.

Since 2021, First Tee Greater Kansas City has been proud to partner with Tom Watson and his nonprofit organization – Watson Links. The 8-time major champion and Kansas City native wanted to bring more on-course opportunities and golf mentoring to his hometown. The vision Wathas since expanded to include 17 locations nationwide. 

Together, we make on-course experiences more accessible and connect generations of players to drive learning and fun! The goal: to help the next generation of lifelong golfers develop a passion for play. 

Every kid deserves a mentor. On-course rounds shared by golf mentors and junior golfers: 

  • Help kids learn life skills, develop on-course etiquette, be creative and become passionate players
  • Provide an easy way for vetted adult golfers to pay it forward and join a growing community of champions that drive fun and positivity in the sport. 
  • Can be enjoyed by players of all levels and backgrounds

Watson Links Opportunities 

First Tee Greater Kansas City kids and teens, donors and coaches are invited to sign up for free, fun on-course mentoring opportunities in Kansas City.

Watson Links makes the tee times, you sign up and show up for 9 holes of free golf. Junior players are paired with another junior and trained adult golf mentors to play at a variety of Kansas City area courses. These fun, relaxed rounds help hone basic skills, introduce course etiquette and fun games – all for free!

2025 Timeline

March: 2025 Schedule Released

April: Mentor Meet Up

May – September: Free on course play

Who can participate? 

Mentoring rounds are open to juniors (age 10-18) who are ready for more on-course experiences. Skill levels range from beginners to on-course play to advanced players looking to learn more perspectives in the game and new ways to play. 

Watson Links is also looking for mentors! Mentors are vetted adult golfers of all skill levels who want to help area kids and teens develop a passion for play and have fun on the golf course! All mentors complete a background screening and sport safety training. Mentors will also receive an orientation and ideas for fun formats to ensure success on the course.  

Hey Parents! 

Check out what we’re about on our Parent Tee Sheet: https://bit.ly/ParentTeeSheet 

Want to play? 

See more details here 

Fill out our 2025 interest form here here

Contact / Questions: 

Russ Barker, KC Local Program Manager [email protected],