About Us

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a sports journalist.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

I enjoy being able to help someone develop their confidence and take ownership over what they learn. I also enjoy finding and helping others see what they are doing well.

When did you start playing golf?

I started playing golf when I was 10 years old.

What are some of your hobbies?

Soccer, golf, badminton, hiking, cooking, reading, movies, and playing my violin like a guitar.

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

My mother, Nancy. She helped me understand that I have a choice how I react to life and how it is up to me to choose happiness.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to play point guard for the Phoenix Suns while working as a Veterinarian on the side.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

I enjoy being a role model and instilling knowledge and values to participants that I didn’t receive until I was a young adult.

When did you start playing golf?

I started golfing with my father and brother when I was 10 years old.

What are some of your hobbies?

I enjoy golf, drawing, table top games, anime, and watching mixed martial art competitions.

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

My college golf instructor, Scott Krause.  He taught me how to utilize affirmations which encouraged me to trust and be confident in my strengths and skillset.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was younger, I wanted to be a photographer. It was one thing I knew I was good at. I was always taking pictures.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

I enjoy interacting with people (the participants, volunteers and coaches). I used to be really shy and coaching is my confidence booster. Meeting new participants and make connections with them are what I enjoy the most.

When did you start playing golf?

I started when I was around 10 years old. I asked my Dad to teach me how to play golf and he said, “On Wii?”

What are some of your hobbies?

I love being in nature. Golfing, going to the beach, photography and videography are my top hobbies

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

Coach Scot was my swing coach throughout my high school years. I struggled with what I wanted to do, what college to go to, etc. He was a great person to talk to regarding what I could do post high-school. He has always been supportive and helped me decide to study Graphic Design.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a fire fighter, so I could help people.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

I love watching the kids get excited when they succeed, and helping them grow and excel.

When did you start playing golf?

I started playing golf when I was 4 years old. My Dad was my first coach.

What are some of your hobbies?

I play a ton of video games, D&D, going to concerts, and paint miniatures.

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

My Dad, Rob. He’s my hero, and taught me how to be kind.

Julie Donnellan has been an Operations Coordinator at First Tee – Silicon Valley since March of 2017. Julie has been a supporter of First Tee since beginning as a volunteer in 2009. She has worked for both small and multi-national companies in high tech and health care. She has been a volunteer chairperson at the golf tournament known as Frys.com Open and the Safeway Open and currently volunteers at the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco. She has lived in San Jose since elementary school and met her husband of 40 years in High School. They have two children, Kelsey, who has her BS from UMBC, her MPH from GWU and lives in Washington, DC, and Tyler, who has his BS in HRM from NAU and is the GM of the Old Spaghetti Factory downtown San Jose. When she isn’t working, she can be found gardening, knitting, traveling to Disneyland and beyond, and playing with their dog, Lucy.

Development Director

Phone: (408) 508-4881
Email: judy@tftsv.org

Judy Dixon Deaton has been the Development Director at The First Tee of Silicon Valley since September 2017. As life-long golfer, she is passionate about sharing how this self-sustaining organization’s educational programs have impacted nearly 80,000 youth by building character, instilling life-enhancing values, and promoting healthy choices through the game of golf. Her job is to connect individuals and companies with the opportunity to help transform the lives of underserved youth and give them a brighter future. Judy has come full circle in her career by starting in the non-profit sector at the United Way, March of Dimes and Santa Clara County Fair Association; then she spent 20 years in the media industry. Her time in media as Director of Sales spanned TV, Print and Radio working for KNTV-11(ABC), Silicon Valley Biz Ink and 15 years at 94.5 KBAY and Mix 106.5. She graduated from Bradley University with a Public Relations /Advertising double major then headed west where she met her husband of 32 years, Nate Deaton, a radio GM at 95.3 KRTY. Judy and Nate have a 23-year old son Drew, who works for TTI Group, Inc. When Judy isn’t working, you will find her golfing at Almaden Country Club, at country concerts, watching sports or volunteering at Holy Spirit Parish.

president & CEO

Phone: (408) 288-2937
Email: george@tftsv.org

George Maxe, President & CEO, is a graduate of UC Berkeley where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and the MIT Sloan School of Management where he earned a Master’s degree in Management. He has significant work experience in marketing, general management, organization development, systems thinking, and management consulting. George also has expertise in mentoring and creating effective mentoring programs, which was the topic of his Master’s thesis. He has mentored hundreds of young people and has coached youth baseball and soccer for several years. George’s role as President & CEO of The First Tee of Silicon Valley is a perfect blend of his education, expertise, and background.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A math teacher

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

Watching students grow – physically in technical aspects of sport, and all round sportsmanship

When did you start playing golf?

Age 13 with my father in Stamford Connecticut

What are some of your hobbies?

Golf, snorkeling, hiking, reading

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

Mr. Chuck Bauman of Dole Food Company who recommended my moves overseas to Honduras and Philippines in my first 10 years of work

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

An architect

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

I enjoy seeing the progress among students/athletes.

When did you start playing golf?

I started playing golf at the age of 4.

What are some of your hobbies?

I enjoy hiking, writing poetry, and spending time with family and friends.

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

My dad is one of my most important mentors because he has taught me that no matter what a situation may be, I have to keep my composure.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was in elementary school, I wanted to be a firefighter

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

I enjoy passing on the life lessons that I have learned from First Tee to newer participants

When did you start playing golf?

I started playing golf in 2011, when I was ten years old

What are some of your hobbies?

Some of my hobbies are classic car restoration, building mechanical keyboards, and making metal art

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

My most important mentor, at least in First Tee, was Coach Lionel. He taught me how to know my audiences and be a good coach.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be an Electronics Engineer

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

Kids smiling

When did you start playing golf?

10 years old

What are some of your hobbies?

Golf, reading, cooking, travel

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

Al – he cared so deeply about me and my future

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Back in elementary school, I always wanted to be a doctor. I guess I am still on that path, as I am currently getting my doctorate for physical therapy.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

I love building a rapport with the participants and other coaches. The First Tee as always felt like family.

When did you start playing golf?

I have been playing golf for as long as I remember. I have been walking Rancho del Pueblo with my dad since I was 2, and have been playing ever since.

What are some of your hobbies?

Other than golf, I love playing most other sports, especially football, basketball, and soccer. I also enjoy video games and watching educational youtube videos.

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

George (President of TFTSV) is a very important mentor to me, and has been for a long time. His way of critical thinking, calm demeanor, and precision in action inspire me everyday.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A professional athlete or a Lawyer

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

Of course, the most enjoyable part of coaching is the special smiles and enthusiasm of the kids and the week-to-week improvements they make.

When did you start playing golf?

I started playing golf in high school with a bunch of friends.  We played the muni golf course in San Mateo.

What are some of your hobbies?

Of course golf is number #1 but staying healthy and fit is a close number #2.  I am also a wine geek.

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

My good friend Fred, he mentored me on how to be an entrepreneur.  Most important thing I learned was there is no harm in asking for what you want and working hard to get it.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Veterinarian

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

Bringing the best out in the kids. Making them believe in themselves.

When did you start playing golf?

10 (with my Mom’s wooden clubs), Thank goodness for First Tee

What are some of your hobbies?

Golf, cars, motorcycles, wildlife

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

My grandfather. He suffered lots of prejudice growing up. However, he always kept on the right track being somebody to admire.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Scientist

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

Seeing how our participants learn and grow, & how they carry our core values with them

When did you start playing golf?

Junior high school, then later on in my forties

What are some of your hobbies?

Golfing (of course!), tropical reef aquarium, helping with local guide-dog training group

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

Morris—Junior high school science teacher: Helped me develop interest & work habits that I used later in my telecom engineering career

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I recall always wanting to be an athlete – A baseball player for most of my youth

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

Seeing people learn and experience the joy of progress and realization of efficacy

When did you start playing golf?

I didn’t start playing golf until just after high school, but most certainly made up for lost time!

What are some of your hobbies?

I’m trying to develop a green thumb, cycling and finding great hiking trails, preferably on the coast.

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

My first mentor was my Uncle Russ. He always encouraged me to be responsible and taught me how to practice being the best person I could be. He filled in the father role that I needed during my critical development years.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Professional Baseball Player and Skateboarder

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

Helping people become better people in a positive and welcoming environment.

When did you start playing golf?

When I was a wee lad (4 years old)

What are some of your hobbies?

Gardening, attempting comedy, hiking, concerts, cooking, music, fixing/creating, and bingo.

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

My Father, Chili—he is compassionate and has a strong work ethic.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A Grown up (hee hee). Actually, I wanted to be a police officer.

Does your career coincide with that childhood dream?

No, but I really like what I do and it affords me the time to also be a Coach with the First Tee.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

Giving back to the First Tee because of what the program has provided my family.

When did you start playing golf?

When I was 25 years old

What are some of your hobbies?

Golf, playing music, and spending time with family.

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

John—Head Coach at Rancho Del Pablo Eagles. John has shown patience, knowledge, and commitment to the golf program. He has inspired me to try to do the same in everything I do.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Veterinarian

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

It is very rewarding. I enjoy the interaction with the participants. Watching them try new things and grow as individuals.

When did you start playing golf?

When I was 18. I played a course that is now a housing development.

What are some of your hobbies?

Hiking, Biking, Reading

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

Bill: He gave me the opportunity to explore new tasks at work.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be an archer like Legolas in The Lord of the Rings.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

Having responsibility for my students, because I feel meaningful when I have somebody who needs my help.

When did you start playing golf?

I started playing golf with my parents when I was 20.

What are some of your hobbies?

I play classical guitar, golf, and read anthropology books for fun.

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

Professor David Feldheim, professor of neuroscience, because he guided me to have a broad perspective of the world.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

 Chef

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

Spreading knowledge of the things I love

When did you start playing golf?

Around 11 years old

What are some of your hobbies?

Cooking, writing, comedy

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

Jess, work supervisor and HS Golf coach. He was always real with me and put up with my sass for 4 years.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to become the President when I was younger.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

I enjoy watching participants grow as golfers and people.

When did you start playing golf?

I started playing golf when I was 13 years old.

What are some of your hobbies?

I love to play basketball.

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

My most important mentor was George. He helped be less shy and to get out of my comfort zone.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

An elementary school teacher, because I wanted to show how fun learning can be.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

I love creating bonds w/my students & being able to be someone they can come to for advice and help.

When did you start playing golf?

I started playing golf at the age of 4 with my Dad.

What are some of your hobbies?

I started playing golf at the age of 4 with my Dad. 

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

My first grade teacher Ms. Ly, because she always made learning fun with games and activities. 

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was in elementary school, I wanted to be a zoologist. I have always loved animals and really enjoyed watching the PBS Nature documentaries and reading animal books. Those were what made me want to get involved with animal research in the future, whether it be in the field or at research centers. 

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

I enjoy watching my students improve while having fun at the same time. It is really gratifying when my student is finally able to grasp a certain concept or execute the shot that they intended to do. They usually get so excited and immediately try again. I am glad to see that these students are slowly starting to enjoy golfing more and more.

When did you start playing golf?

I started playing golf when I was around seven years old. I first started by following my dad when he went to practice golf. Around that time, he also started signing me up for junior golf classes such as The First Tee and the classes at Santa Theresa Golf Course. There, I met many new friends and grew to love the sport. 

What are some of your hobbies?

I enjoy playing the flute. I used to play the traditional Chinese bamboo flute in an orchestra for many years and although I am no longer doing that. I still like to practice it at least a couple fo times a week so that I don’t forget how to play it. It is a nice way to relax if I am stressed out over school work.

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

My most important mentor is my dad. He was the first one to introduce me to golf and he also taught me to always work hard in everything I set my mind on doing. He was able to become successful from starting out with almost nothing through his determination and work, which is a huge inspiration for me. 

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

While in elementary school, I always dreamed of being the President of the United States of America.

Does your career coincide with that childhood dream?

Currently as a sophomore in college, I believe that I am on track to accomplish my childhood dream as long as I work really hard.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

I enjoy being a role model to younger students who share many of the same aspirations that I did when I was their age.

When did you start playing golf?

I started playing golf in the summer of 2012 between 5th and 6th grade.

What are some of your hobbies?

I enjoy golfing, playing guitar, playing video games and coding.

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

My 10th grade history teacher, Cody Owens, was one of my most important mentors. He gave me a lot of advice related to school and life in general. He was a reliable advisor especially during the college application process as he helped me find programs that would help me reach my eventual goal of becoming the President.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was in elementary school, I wanted to be an engineer when I grew up because that’s what my dad was.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

I enjoy coaching because it allows me to see the game that I love in a different way. It’s fun to have gone through the program as a participant and be able to be on the coaching side years later.

When did you start playing golf?

I first swung a golf club when I was 9 and started seriously playing at 14.

What are some of your hobbies?

Golf is my full-time hobby because I play on my university’s team. In my remaining free time, I enjoy calligraphy and watching the NBA. Go Warriors!

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

My most important mentor was my older sister, Gladys. Watching her navigate life as I was growing up motivated me to work hard at everything I did.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was in elementary school, I wanted to be a professional baseball player for the San Francisco Giants as a pitcher.

Does you career coincide with that childhood dream?

My childhood dream of being a professional baseball player did not pan out, but I have been able to stay involved in athletics and fitness.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

The aspect I enjoy most about coaching is being able to make an impact in the growth and development of the students.

When did you start playing golf?

I started playing golf in June of 2020.

What are some of your hobbies?

I enjoy surfing, golfing , spending time with my parents, going on hikes, new adventures, and road trips.

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

Roy Day, PGA: Roy is an incredible person who is a shining example for many young aspiring golfers including myself. Roy truly embraces selflessness and has taught me how to become a better golfer but more importantly a better person on and off the golf course.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Singer or actress

Does you career coincide with that childhood dream?

Luckily not because I’m not good in any of those activities, especially not singing.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

I enjoy passing the knowledge and experience I gained over the years in the golf environment and seeing the process of people learning the game of golf.

When did you start playing golf?

When I was 9 years old, I hit my first golf ball, but when I was 13 years old, I started practicing more and playing competitively.

What are some of your hobbies?

I love doing sports in general so running, hiking, biking and working out.

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

My dad was the one who showed me this awesome game because he wanted someone to play with. Through the rules of golf, he showed me the fundamentals of life as well and became my mentor both in golf and life.

When you were in elementary school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Professional Baseball Player

Does your career coincide with that childhood dream?

Not necessarily; however, I loved playing baseball through high school and went on to coach Little League for over 20 years.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

Making a difference in the life of a young person, whether in the form of improving their golf skills or helping them understand the importance of core values.

When did you start playing golf?

12 years old

What are some of your hobbies?

Golf; board games; coaching / mentoring; travel in non-COVID times.

Who was your most important mentor (first name and role) and why?

My parents as they taught me how to treat and love other people by their example of building our loving family and cultivating special friendships within our neighborhood and church communities.