June Game Changer Spotlight: The Jun Family

The Jun family expresses immense pride and gratitude in being part of the First Tee – Greater Chicago family. Donna Jun, Eli’s mom, says that ever since Eli started taking lessons at Waveland a few years back, his love for golf has just kept growing. He approaches challenges with enthusiasm and a sense of enjoyment, even when faced with difficulties. She recalls that opportunities such as the Youth Clinic with Lurie Children’s and the Drive, Chip, and Putt competition have significantly contributed to his growth and enjoyment.

Donna notes that Eli particularly appreciates how the First Tee program makes learning golf enjoyable through games and values the friendships he has formed in his classes. 

“To Eli, First Tee feels like a second home. He sees it as a safe, welcoming, and fun environment where he always encounters friendly faces.” 

Some of Eli’s memorable moments include outdriving Ian Happ at the Fore the Kids fundraiser earlier this year and his impressive effort in selling raffle tickets during the event.

She observes that Eli consistently applies the lessons he has learned from First Tee in his daily life. For example, during a recent meet-and-greet with his upcoming school teachers, Eli confidently approached, shook hands, and introduced himself without any prompting. When asked about it later, he mentioned that he learned this from his First Tee coaches as part of the game of golf and recognizes its importance in everyday interactions.