I started my love for the game of golf at a very young age. I participated in youth programs such as First Tee, Hooked on Golf, and Tiger Golf. I began playing in golf tournaments in the area at the age of 8 and typically played in 12-18 tournaments each summer. I participated for several years in the Drive, Chip, Putt Challenge and advanced to the Sectional Level at this competition where I won 1st place in putting for my age group. Since I started high school, I have been on the varsity golf team. My freshman year, I was the #2 golfer and have maintained the #1 golfer position with my team for the last two years. During my sophomore year, I advanced to the Sectional competition. I have been able to play with some of the best golfers in our area. My golf game underwent a major shift from my sophomore to junior year. I was introduced to a new private coach and attended lessons throughout the Winter, Spring, and Summer. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, there were not as many golf tournaments during the summer of 2020, especially in the state of Illinois. I was invited to attend the Midwest Boys Golf College Showcase tournament in Indiana and participated in that competition. I joined the Wisconsin Junior Golf Association and played in several tournaments in Wisconsin. 

During the 2020-21 golf season, I have seen a dramatic improvement with my scores which have allowed me to maintain the status as one of the top 3 golfers in the conference throughout this season. My current 9 hole average is 41.  I have placed in the top 12 for all area and regional tournaments held during this season. The Illinois High School Athletic Organization has approved that the State series competitions will extend no further than a Sectional tournament.  I hope to be nominated for First Team All Conference in the NUIC conference because I have really strived to be a leader in the region this season. With a larger school golf team this year, I was able to encourage and help my teammates and really become the captain of our team. I am looking forward to continued practice during the Winter months . One of my favorite things about golf is the challenge and I continue to strive for improvement every time I am on the course. 

Summer 2021 has been the best golf yet! I feel that my practice this winter has really improved my skills. Aside from improvements in driving, chipping, putting, I have been able to analyze what I am doing wrong if I am struggling on a hole or a round. I also have learned additional ways to persevere when I make a bad shot or have a bad hole. This was evident in my most recent tournament when I shot a 45 in the front (one of my worst scores this season) and turned it around on the back nine to shoot an even par (my best nine in a tournament so far). Golf is my life this summer from practicing, tournaments and working at my local golf course. I wouldn't want it any other way!