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I am currently trying to change up my practice pattern in order to include more randomized practice and mental challenges .”
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Walker has improved her scoring average by nearly three strokes over the last 12 months .
VG : Tell us a little bit about the stats app that your father has developed . How have those numbers have helped you improve your game ? ( Check out Melanie ’ s numbers at melaniewalker2022 . com .) MW : The statistics help me have confidence and know that I ’ m never that far off after a poor round . I also know what to practice and improve on , giving me a better understanding of what it takes to achieve and how to get there . Therefore , I am more efficient and targeted with my practice .
VG : You ’ ve signed to play next year at the University of Missouri . What went into that choice ? What do you plan on studying at Mizzou ? MW : Missouri already feels like a second family . I have just signed and am really excited about the next chapter . I look forward to getting to know everyone more and working hard to succeed on and off the course . I wish to do something in STEM , but I need to explore my options more before coming to a conclusion .
VG : What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of golf ? MW : I really love to do art and to read . This has led to a fun little outlet called bullet journaling , which also allows for me to stay organized during the school year . hearing about the honor ? What kind of validation was that for you for the work that you ’ ve put in during your career ? MW : I was really surprised to be awarded the award , but it definitely means a lot . It shows that I have been working hard these past few years and that I am on the right track for greater improvements and achievements as I make the transition into collegiate golf .
VG : You went to Ohio to qualify for the U . S . Girls ’ Junior and earned a spot in the field . What kind of learning experience was it for you playing against the top players in the world ? And how great was it to be able to play close to home and have a support system out on the course with you ? MW : Any time that a player can grow from testing themselves and seeing how they can improve is really important . I learned a lot about mental strength and learning to keep myself calm on the course . It was awesome to be on the same range and putting green as the best and learn what they do to prepare too . I appreciated some home support when a couple of my friends came out to watch too .
VG : Let ’ s talk about the future a bit . You and Sydney Hackett qualified for next year ’ s U . S . Women ’ s Amateur Four-Ball Championship , and you ’ ve stated to want to qualify for multiple USGA championships in 2022 . Where does your game need to improve to most to help you reach those goals ? MW : I am currently trying to change up my practice pattern in order to include more randomized practice and mental challenges . I am hoping that integrating this into my practice helps keep me mentally focused and challenged on the course , and I am always working on swing technique and green reading .
vsga . org N OVEMBER / D ECEMBER 2021 | V IRGINIA G OLFER 13