First Tee of Naples/Collier awards college scholarships to three local golfers
The First Tee – Naples/Collier selected Julian Alonso and Payton Balliet as their 2023 four-year college scholarship recipients.
The two scholarships are $10,000 each and are renewable on an annual basis for up to four academic years based on the renewal criteria set by the scholarship committee. Alonso and Balliet distinguished themselves as dedicated and committed leaders in First Tee through their involvement in First Tee Life Skills programming, character development, academic excellence, community service, and participation in extra-curricular activities.
“Our Scholarship Committee is extremely proud to award our 2023-2024 college scholarships to Julian and Payton,” said Cindy Darland, First Tee Executive Director. “We know they will represent our First Tee chapter well and lead the next generation with the values instilled upon them through the First Tee.”
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“Receiving the First Tee Naples/Collier College Scholarship is the best thing that has ever happened to me,”said Alonso, a senior at Fort Myers High School. "The support given to me by First Tee means so much to me, my family, and my education. This generous scholarship will help me pursue my dreams and continue my journey towards success. Thank you for believing in me and investing in my future.”
Payton, a Gulf Coast High senior, added, “The First Tee Scholarship means so much to me as it will help me keep my main focus on my studies and college golf without having to worry as much about the ever-rising costs of college. This scholarship is a true blessing.”
First Tee – Naples/Collier also announced a one-time $5,000 scholarship award to Naples High senior Eliza Kodak for her outstanding accomplishments throughout her years in First Tee.
This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: First Tee of Naples/Collier awards scholarships to three Collier Co. golfers
