Sport has a unique universal appeal, a power that connects people of all ages, genders, races, and religions. For me, golf has been a way to connect with my family. My dad taught me to play and was my coach throughout my competitive career, while my younger sister and I always played in tournaments together. We spent countless hours on the golf course, competing and enjoying each other's company. Golf has always been more than a sport to me; it’s a passion that has shaped my identity and driven my commitment to advocating for women in the game. As a junior golfer in a small Oregon town, my sister and I were often the only girls practicing at our local course. Golf can feel like a male-dominated world, and I frequently encountered skepticism about my abilities. I received comments like I was “too pretty” to be good at golf or that I should prefer being at home or with a boyfriend rather than competing. Despite my tournament success, I faced doubts about my ability to compete with boys. These comments inspired me to work even harder, leading to numerous tournament wins and national competition experiences. From these challenges, I emerged stronger, more determined, and with a deeper appreciation for the game. Playing golf at the University of Oregon while pursuing my undergraduate degree further enriched my journey. Representing my university and home state was a dream come true, but it came with its own challenges. Balancing rigorous academics with the demands of PAC-12 DI collegiate golf tested my time management skills and mental fortitude. As a student-athlete, I felt pressure to perform on the course and in the classroom, not only for myself but also for my team and school. Yet, these pressures taught me invaluable lessons about teamwork, leadership, and perseverance. Being surrounded by strong, supportive women who love the game just as much as I do was transformational and deepened my love for the sport. It also underscored the importance of advocating for women in sports, so other girls can experience the same joys. During my time at Oregon, I took on a leadership role in the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). This position allowed me to advocate for fellow female athletes, especially in a sport where representation is still disproportionately small. I worked on initiatives aimed at increasing support for women in athletics, reinforcing my belief that female golfers deserve the same recognition, resources, and encouragement as their male counterparts. One of my most rewarding experiences came from my internship with Fairways to Leadership as an event operations intern. This non-profit organization promotes inclusivity and leadership development among women and minorities in golf. The internship not only allowed me to apply my skills but also served as a platform to advocate for women in the sport. I witnessed firsthand the impact of mentorship and community, inspiring me to continue championing female golfers. My journey as a golfer has been one of joy, growth, advocacy, and empowerment. The challenges I’ve faced have shaped my commitment to supporting women in golf, and I believe it’s vital to create a more inclusive environment for all. I cherish the connections I’ve made and the lessons I’ve learned through golf, and I am dedicated to fostering a future where female golfers can thrive on and off the course.