Since 1977, THE PLAYERS had contributed more than $40 million to Northeast Florida charitable organizations and causes, ranging from health care and youth education to human services. In 2010, THE PLAYERS raised a record $4.8 million that benefited nearly 100 First Coast Charities.

To continue that giving in 2011, THE PLAYERS will announce several charitable donations throughout the summer, culminating with Giving Back Month in the fall. First on that list is the success achieved at the PwC First Tee Challenge during this year’s tournament.

Throughout tournament week, kids and adults lined up outside of JELD-WEN Stadium Village to try their hand at the scaled version of the famous 17th hole replica and took more than 18,500 shots to hit the island green. New in 2011, THE PLAYERS asked participants for a donation to The First Tee for an extra shot at the green and the chance to win prizes. The First Tee is a nonprofit dedicated to providing an affordable and accessible youth-centered golf facility where youth can learn the game of golf and the values it teaches in a structured and supportive environment. As a result of the PwC First Tee Challenge, nearly $9,000 was raised for The First Tee, and more than 125 dozen golf balls (1,500) that were used in the challenge during tournament week will be donated to The First Tee of Jacksonville for participants’ use.

More information about both organizations can be found at www.pgatour.com/theplayers and www.thefirstteejacksonville.org. Congratulations to THE PLAYERS and The First Tee of Jacksonville on a successful fundraising event!