Connections Adaptive Golf Program Tees Off at Keiser University

Connections Education Center is excited to partner with First Tee at Keiser University, made possible in part through funding from the Classic Cares Grant. This collaboration provides our students with access to Keiser University’s driving ranges and putting greens, guided by their experienced staff.

The Connections Adaptive Golf Program provides a wide range of benefits for students with special needs, supporting their physical, cognitive, and social development,” said Jason Portman, Executive Director of Connections Education Center.

The program officially kicked off this month, giving Connections students the opportunity to build confidence, coordination, and lifelong skills—both on and off the course.

Supporting Health, Wellness & Aquatics

This golf program expands upon Connections’ innovative Health, Wellness, and Aquatics Program, which addresses the overall fitness and well-being of students ages 3–23+ on the autism spectrum.

Now, with the addition of golf, students will benefit from:

• Weekly sessions at Keiser University

• Instruction on the fundamentals of golf—from holding and swinging a club to connecting with the ball

• Lessons in golf rules and etiquette, such as turn-taking, scoring, and sportsmanship

• Exposure to core values like perseverance and integrity—skills that extend far beyond the golf course

In the short term, students will increase their fitness levels, and in the long term, they will develop a meaningful leisure skill they can carry into adulthood. Importantly, this program also promotes inclusion within the sport of golf, empowering students who may never have seen themselves on the course before.

Portman explained, “This program builds confidence when a student successfully hits the ball or improves their score, encourages inclusion through peer interaction and teamwork, and promotes stress relief in the calm, outdoor environment of the course. Just as importantly, it teaches patience and sportsmanship, fosters independence, and connects our students with the broader community through recreational opportunities.”

A Shared Commitment to Inclusion

For Keiser University, this partnership is about more than just teaching golf—it’s about creating opportunities.

“At Keiser University, we’re passionate about growing the game of golf and making it accessible to everyone,” said Peter Crocitto III, Director of the Keiser University Golf Coaching Center and program lead for the partnership. “Welcoming Connections students to our facility gives us the chance to help them create lasting memories. Our hope is that these experiences bring genuine smiles and maybe even spark a lifelong interest in golf. There’s nothing better than seeing a student light up when they realize they’ve found a new hobby.”

The Keiser team believes golf is uniquely valuable for students with autism because it teaches both athletic and life skills. Skills that will stick with students long after they leave the green. “We emphasize core values like responsibility, confidence, perseverance, courtesy, honesty, and sportsmanship—qualities that matter both on and off the course,” Crocitto explained. Their approach prioritizes fun, incorporating visuals, games, and a supportive environment that encourages students to learn at their own pace.

“Programs like this send a message that golf truly is for everyone,” Crocitto added. “By breaking down barriers and creating inclusive experiences, we’re showing that anyone can enjoy the game, no matter their background or ability. It helps the sport grow and makes everyone feel welcome.”

Building Skills—and Connections

Through this new golf partnership, Connections Education Center continues to enrich the lives of its students while fostering deeper community ties. With the support of Keiser University, First Tee, and the Classic Cares Grant, students are gaining more than golf skills—they’re building confidence, friendships, and values that will last a lifetime.