The quiet of an early tee time, the rhythm of a swing cutting through morning air — that’s where senior golfer Carli Upton finds her rhythm. She has been playing golf since she was four years old, and now, as a senior, she’s approaching the game with the focus and perspective that only come from years of dedication.
“I realized golf was more than just a hobby when I was in middle school,” Upton said. “It allows me to see that all my hard work and dedication have paid off, and the effort and teamwork I put in have come a long way.”
Upton’s short game is her strength, though she admits it’s also one of the toughest parts of golf to master. “Putting and chipping. That’s the hardest part of your game,” she said. “It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to be where I am today.”
Before every round, Upton takes a quiet moment to center herself. “I pray before every round and remind myself to be patient and keep a good mental mind,” she said. “Being calm and collected is everything.”
Her biggest accomplishment so far came with her team at the state tournament. “Being able to play with my amazing team and finishing runner-up at state — that’s something I’ll always remember,” Upton said. She credits her coach with helping her push through tough rounds and stay focused. “My biggest influence has been my coach because he knows what I’m capable of and pushes me to be my best.”
Balancing golf with her studies comes naturally for Upton. “School comes first, then I focus on practice,” she said. “But practicing on your own is where it all comes from.”
Outside of competition, one of her favorite memories came far from home. “Diamante Golf Course in Los Cabos, Mexico has been my favorite because it was beautiful, and I got to play with all my family,” she said.
For Upton, golf has become more than a sport. It’s been a teacher. “I’ve realized that all things take time and patience, no matter the setting,” she said. “No one will push you as hard as you need to push yourself to get where you want to be.”
As she looks toward her final season, Upton has her sights set on something special. “My goals are to win the individual state champion title and the team title,” she said. Even with big goals ahead, her calm confidence remains her edge, steady, poised and ready for whatever lies beyond the next swing.
