First Tee – Pittsburgh details efforts to enhance the Bob O’Connor Golf Course at Schenley Park

Pittsburgh’s Action News 4 spoke with the CEO of First Tee – Pittsburgh about their latest efforts to offer access to the sport of golf at a low cost for kids and teenagers

Nick MatoneyPITTSBURGH —

For the past 25 years, First Tee – Pittsburgh has worked to help children and teenagers get access to the sport of golf at a low cost.

Now, as they continue their mission, they’re working to enhance the Bob O’Connor Golf Course at Schenley Park.

First Tee – Pittsburgh President & CEO Eric Amato spoke with Pittsburgh’s Action News 4 about those plans.

“It’s building upon the work that we did, getting more groups and getting more kids, from different agencies like Special Olympics or partnerships that we’ve built out through other youth-serving agencies in the community,” said Amato. “So having more kids on this site, learning our program, learning our stuff is one of the exciting opportunities we have.”

First Tee – Pittsburgh is exploring using the current footprint at the golf course to create a full-swing performance area as opposed to a conventional driving range.

On the 9-hole course, they’re aiming to invest in making updates and making it more accessible with electric golf carts.

“Adding golf carts really is a key component for sustainability, success and also accessibility,” said Amato. “Getting people in that wouldn’t normally play.”

He later added, “Pittsburgh’s a great, awesome town, but it’s not the flattest area in the world. And so by having something that allows them to participate and play this game for as long as possible is really exciting.”

First Tee – Pittsburgh said they aren’t asking the city for money for the project and instead are asking for support and donations from the community to make the project possible.