In Los Cabos, Mexico, a birthday visit to a golf tournament ignited a profound passion for the sport in 13-year-old Paloma Orozco. Her journey highlights the remarkable community impact of First Tee Diamante, a program bringing golf opportunities to local children.
The Birth of First Tee Diamante
The program was conceived during the COVID-19 pandemic when Jim Panoff recognized that children of Diamante employees lacked access to golf. Following a suggestion from his grandson, who participated in a Texas chapter, Panoff secured $25,000 in seed funding from 25 original club founders and homeowners to launch the initiative.
First Tee Diamante now supports approximately 150 children aged 6 to 18, relying on 40 volunteer coaches from the Diamante staff. Participants receive transportation to the Oasis Short Course, meals, and daycare, while also gaining lessons in discipline, respect, and confidence.
Progression and Pro-Am Experience
Children advance through a color-coded belt system, starting with SNAG equipment before moving to traditional golf. The top performers enter the elite black division, which requires strong academic standing alongside advanced golf skills.
Recently, 23 participants took part in the First Tee Oasis Pro-Am on Tiger Woods’ 12-hole par-3 course during the World Wide Technology Championship week. Orozco played alongside professional Nicholas Lindheim, capping off the day by sinking a 15-foot birdie putt on the final hole.
Cari Wilber, vice president of marketing for World Wide Technology, stated that the partnership aims to support the next generation of local leaders in Cabo alongside Diamante homeowners. For participants like Orozco, the experience fosters a sense of belonging in a sport they once observed only from afar.
With aspirations to attend major tournaments like the Masters and The Players Championship, Orozco continues to hone her focus as her journey in golf carries forward.
