All immigrants have a dream, and Estela Morales is living hers. Since 2008, Morales has trained children ages 7 to 18 years old through the “First Tee Connecticut Program,” teaching not only golf but life skills through healthy choices and core values – confidence, courtesy, honesty, judgment, responsibility, respect, perseverance, integrity and sportsmanship.
Golf has been a lifelong passion for Morales. She began playing when she was just 8 years old. In Mexico, she was a member of the Mexican Women’s Golf Association and of “Club Campestre de Gomez Palacio,” a private golf course. She was a regular on the tournament scene in northern Mexican states.
Here in Connecticut, Morales is a member of the Connecticut Women’s Golf Association and the Southern New England Women’s Golf Association. She was the 2011 golf league champion at Goodwin Park, and recently captured first place for longest driver contest, and second place for the overall women’s golf tournament at Stanley Golf Club’s league.
Golf is just part of Morales’ schedule. She works full time for Hartford Public Schools, and is an active community volunteer. She is the chair of the School Governance Council at Adult Education Center in Hartford, co-chair of the Voices of Connecticut Adult Learners; and treasurer of One State Street Toastmasters.
At this year’s 15th Annual Connecticut Immigrant Day, she received commendation from Gov. Dannel P. Malloy for her contributions to the community and for being a role model to youth.
She relocated to the U.S. in 2007, and became an American citizen in December 2011. “Golf is my passion, and I want to make a difference in the lives of young people through the game of golf. I’m proud to be part of First Tee Connecticut Program.”
