It’s much more than a sport. Learning to play golf involves physical play, but also training in personal aspects such as discipline, character and integrity.

The First Tee exposed Birmingham physical education teachers to this unique golfing program Friday, Oct. 25 in a day-long workshop at the Birmingham Crossplex. The curriculum combines teaching golfing skills, healthy habits and healthy self-esteem.

George Moore is the Program Specialist for Physical Education for Birmingham city schools. It is the first time that this instruction has been made available for the school system.

Moore says the game of golf builds good character and these life skills will be translated to the students.  “They’re training the teachers so they can go back to the classes and teach the fundamentals of golf. At the same time, they’ll be teaching core values such as good sportsmanship, dedication and fair play.”

“Most importantly, we want to teach kids the importance of play because it’s a healthy habit.  Even for adults, play is relaxing, cultivates exercise and reduces stress,”  said     with The First Tee. ” We want these kids to really connect to their community through play because if they don’t learn to play, it will affect them throughout the rest of their lives.”

Teachers will begin implementing these lessons into their curriculum during the 2013-2014 school year. The First Tee partners with corporations all over America to put on these training programs. Alabama Power is a proud supporter of this training program for the Birmingham City Schools.