GRAND RAPIDS, MI – November 17, 2020 – Since 2011, First Tee – West Michigan has provided youth development and golf programs to young people in Muskegon, Kent and Ottawa Counties. This upcoming spring, it will also provide programs in Kalamazoo Counties. To accommodate the growth of the organization, First Tee has recently hired Benjamin Elenbaas as its first full-time Administrative and Accounting Coordinator.
Elenbaas grew up in Byron Center, graduating from South Christian High School in 2012 as a multisport athlete in golf, soccer, and basketball, including a 2-time state competitor in golf and state champion in soccer in 2010. Elenbaas went on to play golf at Calvin University, where he graduated with a Bachelor’s in Accounting in 2016. He continues to be an avid golfer and has a 2 handicap.
Elenbaas’s work experience includes two years at Everett’s Landscape and two years at the Christian Athletic Complex, serving in accounting and programming roles. In addition, Elenbaas has more than 5 years of coaching experience, including currently serving as the Assistant Varsity Boys Basketball Coach at South Christian High School.
“We’re thrilled to have Ben on our staff,” said Executive Director Tyler Smies. “His background and passion working with youth, experience in accounting, along with his passion and skill for golf makes him the ideal fit for this role. We are excited to have a steady hand on our finances, and can’t wait to see the impact he’ll make on our young people.”
First Tee – West Michigan grew to serve more than 1,200 students in 2019 at 15 area golf courses, teaching life skills and its Nine Core Values through the game of golf. Hundreds of their participants receive First Tee’s programs for $5.00 or less because of their families’ income. Despite the coronavirus, First Tee will still serve nearly 950 students in 2020 and has a strong financial position to pursue continued growth.
Registration for First Tee’s virtual winter program is currently open to all returning and new participants, with sessions beginning this week. To register a participant between the ages of 7-17, visit firstteewestmichigan.org/register.
For more information on The First Tee of West Michigan or to interview Ben Elenbaas, contact 616-240-8069 or email
[email protected].
