I didn't grow up playing golf. I actually ended up starting golf in the beginning of 5th grade because I wanted a sport I could play that had the ball go away from me... I was convinced all balls were aimed and set on hitting me, but golf became a place of support. Not only from my fear of sports balls but also through people I met through golf that I now consider mentors. In 6th grade, I joined my school’s golf team but struggled to understand my teammates. I was frustrated because many of them wouldn’t follow the rules and were more confident than me. These kids knew each other well and grew up playing at the local country club. During practices, they would make snide remarks and I became insecure. In fact, I wanted to quit! But, I had also met many great mentors simply by playing golf. They helped me through that hard golf season. I remember one specific time when I felt so bad that I excused myself from the course during team practice. As I was leaving, my one of the connections I had made saw me and realized something wasn’t right. He asked if I wanted to play a couple holes with him. Although I was reluctant to join, the more we played, the more confident I became and the more secure I felt about my game. This mentor reassured me of my golf abilities and knowledge. He helped me understand that everyone battles insecurities on and off of the course. I persevered through that season because a person I had met through golf that took time to connect with me. Participating on the team that season wasn’t pleasant. But, out of the experience I grew enormously. By persevering and working through the situation, I learned not to be shaken by what others think or say. I learned how to stay focused, hold my own, and speak up for myself in uncomfortable environments. Through that experience, I grew to love the game of golf more and better understand how to rely on others. Looking back, I wish that I had proactively asked for help and advocated for my needs rather than waiting and hoping for circumstances to improve. Had I done that, I might have had a better experience and a more enjoyable season. Now that I've experienced that, my goal with golf is to do that same thing for other young golfers, especially young girls. I now regularly volunteer with First Tee so that I can encourage other golfers to do the same. I want to make a difference in people's lives and I believe golf can connect people and truly change them.