John Deere and First Tee celebrated the 2022 Power for Good contest winners for their efforts to do good in their local communities during the 2022 John Deere Classic. The 2022 John Deere Power for Good Winners included Jacob Davis from First Tee- North Florida, Manyi Ngu from First Tee- North Florida and Austin Picinich from First Tee- Seattle.
The participants were selected from a national pool of applicants across the First Tee network based on the positive impacts made in their local communities through volunteer work, participation in local community events, honor student activities and extra-curricular programs.
“John Deere is proud to celebrate the work of First Tee within our home communities and across the golf industry,” said David Thorne, John Deere vice president. “Through the game of golf, First Tee has uplifted youth for 25 years and created a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive future for us all. The Power for Good winners are inspiring examples of the game-changing potential First Tee helps bring to life.”
The winners received the opportunity to play and be mentored by a PGA TOUR player during the pro-am on June 29. In addition, the three participants had the opportunity to watch three First Tee alumni, Quinn Riley of First Tee-Triangle, as well as Cameron Champ and Austin Smotherman, both from First Tee-Greater Sacramento, compete in the 2022 John Deere Classic. The participants will have the opportunity to meet and hear from the First Tee alumni on their personal growth journey through First Tee and how it has helped them in their professional careers. Each participant will receive a $5,000 stipend towards their higher education, as well.
The Power for Good contest recognizes the efforts of young men and women in the First Tee program who have a passion for improving their local communities. Winners are selected based on their commitment to service and leadership, impact on the community, and how their work aligns with the values of First Tee.
Serving as a Trustee Partner for First Tee since 2012, John Deere is committed to providing meaningful experiences for participants, using golf as a platform to empower young people and build their strength of character. The John Deere Power for Good contest first launched in 2017, and since its inception has honored 18 individuals.