Throughout my life, my parents have exposed me to a variety of sports and activities, each contributing to my growth as an athlete, both physically and mentally. I thrive on being part of a team, collaborating with others to achieve common goals. My journey to finding my niche began about 6 years ago when my parents enrolled me in golf programs offered by park districts and Jr. PGA leagues. There was an inexplicable connection I felt on the golf course—a thrill that resonated deep within me.
Driven by this newfound passion, I joined the high school golf team, stepping into an entirely new realm of competition. My first meet was a varsity 18-hole tournament featuring 12+ teams. I vividly recall the mixture of overwhelming excitement and nervousness I felt as I teed off. Unfortunately, I achieved a 109, marking a personal high for the season. This initial experience served as a valuable lesson, igniting my determination to refine my skills and emerge as a leader within the team.
With unwavering dedication, guidance from coaches, and exposure to competitive tournaments, I steadily improved. Ending my freshman season with a personal low of 85 on the same course where I began and becoming the sole varsity freshman sectional qualifier for the team. My progress is undeniable. As I worked on my game through my sophomore year I decreased my scores even more. Even shooting even par on 9, and a couple tournaments under 80. I turned my personal low from my freshman year, 85, into my now average score. However, I've come to understand that golf is not just a physical game it is also a mental game. Though I continue to struggle with this aspect, I'm committed to applying techniques taught by my coach to foster my mental game.
My coaches often mention how coachable I am, as I'm always open to their advice and work hard to put it into action. I know there's always something to learn, especially from people with more experience. So, I stay open to feedback and keep pushing myself to improve.
As I look ahead, I'm eager to join a team that embraces my passions and provides an environment conducive to athletic, academic and personal growth. I aspire to be an indispensable asset to the team, school, and community I represent.
Statistic | 2023 Varsity Team |
---|---|
18 Hole Low | 85 |
9 Hole Low | 42 |