What incentives are there to earn badges?
Participants earn badges by completing activities, showing key life skills, and achieving golf milestones. Badges are designed to be fun and motivating – similar to earning rewards in video games. Advancement to the next age group is not based on badges.
How are digital badges earned?
Digital badges are automatically awarded after completing lessons and knowledge challenges in the First Tee app, which can be accessed on phones, tablets, or computers. Some activities can also be downloaded for offline use.
How are in-person (Bag Tag + Sticker) badges tracked?
During each session (like 8-week program or camp), coaches will designate specific days for evaluation. On those days, participants can earn stickers by demonstrating skills and positive behaviors.
What if a participant doesn’t have access to technology?
No problem – digital content is optional. Printed materials can be provided, and participants can still earn sticker badges through in-person participation.
Are some badges more important than others?
Currently, badges are not weighted, but in the future, in-person Bag Tag + Sticker badges may carry more value than digital ones.
Do badges affect eligibility for national opportunities?
No, badges do not determine eligibility for national events.
Is there a goal number of badges to earn?
There is no set requirement – participants are encouraged to set their own goals.
How do badges relate to progression?
Progression is based on a combination of attendance and badge participation (both digital and in-person).
Will new badges be added?
Yes, new digital badge opportunities will continue to be introduced over time.
When did this system start?
The badging system began with Winter 2024 programs.
Will previous progress carry over?
Yes, past progress will be transferred into the new system as records are updated.
What if a bag tag is lost?
Participants are responsible for their bag tag. Replacements cost $5, and new ones are only issued when advancing to a new age group – not each season.
Bag Tags will be assigned by curriculum age group according to the below:
