By MALIA RULON
Courtesy of the Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Jack Nicklaus told congressional lawmakers Tuesday that golf is not only a game, but also a standard of behavior that can help youngsters learn about sportsmanship and honor.

``Early on, my father saw me throw a club,'' Nicklaus said. ``He told me that if he ever saw me do that again, I wouldn't play anymore. He never saw me do it again.''

Nicklaus, who holds a record 18 major golf tournament titles and is a well-known golf course designer, asked the House Education and the Work force Committee to support programs like The First Tee. It's a nationwide initiative that offers students the opportunity to perfect their golf while learning life skills.

First Tee, started in 1997, relies on assistance from professional golfers, parents, schools, civic organizations, business leaders and state and local governments.

``The mission is to impact the lives of young people by introducing them to the game of golf and its values,'' said Joe Louis Barrow Jr., First Tee executive director.

Last year, more than 60,000 children participated in the program, which is offered at 87 sites nationwide. The program's goal is to reach more than 500,000 youngsters by 2005, Barrow said.

House Education Chairman John Boehner said First Tee is an example of the kind of character-education programs President Bush wants to promote and expand. Former President George Bush is First Tee's honorary chairman.

``No activity better parallels life and teaches character in order to be successful in life than the game of golf,'' said Boehner, R-Ohio. ``As in life, to be successful in golf you must realize you are always going to make mistakes.''

Nicklaus told the committee he supports the program because he thinks the sport is the best way to teach children life lessons.

``Golf is a game that requires discipline and has plenty of opportunities for achievement, whether that is clearing a hazard for the first time or sinking that sidehill, downhill putt,'' he said.