Inspira, a Latino youth golf program in Phoenix, is making golf more accessible for families who haven’t always seen themselves in the sport.
Golf hasn’t always felt accessible.
For many Latino families, it’s a sport that’s been out of reach. It’s not something most Latino kids grow up seeing in their schools or neighborhoods. Even when there’s interest, barriers like cost, lack of representation, and limited exposure often get in the way.
That’s starting to shift. Across the country, golf is becoming more inclusive.
In 2024, 25% of all on-course golfers were People of Color, the highest number ever recorded. (Source: Golf Participation in the U.S. Report, 2024)
But the gap remains.
That’s where Inspira comes in.
When First Tee — Phoenix came to Novle, they already had the heart and commitment. They wanted to reach Latino families in a way that felt real and rooted in community.
So, Inspira was built.
This new initiative by First Tee — Phoenix helps Latino youth and families access character-building programs that teach life skills through the game of golf.
This isn’t just about the sport. It’s about building leadership, confidence, and opportunities for the future.
Through Inspira, First Tee–Phoenix offers:
- Mentorship and leadership development
- Bilingual and culturally relevant curriculum
- Partnerships with schools and trusted community groups
- Scholarships and fee waivers to reduce cost barriers
Why Latino Youth Golf Programs Matter
Programs like these are about more than just physical activity. They help kids stay engaged in school, build stronger relationships, and avoid risky behaviors.
First Tee — Phoenix already reaches more than 100,000 youth each year through its school-based PE programs. Over 2,000 youth and teens participate in the on-course program across 16 golf facilities in Maricopa County. Inspira is how we make sure more Latino families are part of that impact.
The community showed up
On May 21, First Tee — Phoenix held a community launch event for Inspira in partnership with Novle at The Legacy Golf Club. Families, partners, and local leaders came together to celebrate what this initiative means for youth and the future of the sport.
The response was full of excitement and pride. It was clear that the community is ready to be part of creating more inclusive spaces and opportunities.
Photos from the May 21 Inspira launch event hosted at The Legacy Golf Club in Phoenix, in partnership with Novle and First Tee – Phoenix.
A voice from the community
Elizabeth Lazaro, a longtime First Tee — Phoenix parent and proud Latina, shared her perspective. Her daughters have been part of the program for years, and she hopes to see more Latino families feel the same sense of belonging and opportunity.
“First Tee gave us more than just classes and values. It gave me the pride of watching my daughter play in college.”
– Elizabeth Lazaro, parent
That’s what Inspira is all about. Helping youth see what’s possible when they feel welcome, supported, and included.
Novle: Community Activators
At Novle, we’re proud to partner with organizations like First Tee — Phoenix that are deeply committed to connecting with the Latino community in real and meaningful ways. Their heart was in it from the start, and Inspira is just the beginning.
How to Join the Latino Youth Golf Program in Phoenix
Through Inspira, First Tee — Phoenix empowers youth through golf, and the impact grows with community support. You can enroll a child, volunteer your time, partner through your organization, or donate to help expand access across the Valley.
Ready to see your child thrive on and off the course? Learn more or register for Inspira, the leading Latino youth golf program in Phoenix.
