Senior Caitlyn Themanson’s uplifting presence on the Grant Community High School girls varsity golf team inspired and stabilized her teammates, powerfully guiding them to victory. Pushing past the fairways and roughs of golf with durability and focus, she has become a force to be reckoned on and off the course.
“[She’s] a vocal leader and an example for our younger players,” GCHS golf coach AJ Havenga said. “she competes hard and works hard to improve her game every day”.
First impressions play a major role in coaching and building trust. Themanson’s drive to be successful and ability to stay positive allowed her coaches to reflect and work with Themanson to improve her every move. Themanson’s ability to stay level headed allows her to stay calm during matches and think about what she can do to better herself and win the match.
“Golf has its ups and downs, [she] stays level-headed throughout a round of golf even if things aren’t going her way,” Havenga noted.
Themanson’s story begins six years ago when she needed a challenge to push herself to focus, practice patience and work hard, golf was a way for her to express these challenges.
Her role model is her big sister, Abbi Themanson, whose dedication and ability to work hard inspired Themanson both on and off the course. Themanson’s family also had a strong hold on her by providing the support and encouragement she needed to fulfil her high school career in golf. Themanson states that her bigger sister is her biggest example and supporter.
“Watching her dedication motivates me to give my best in golf and life,” Themanson said.
The game of golf takes lots of patience and mental toughness. Working through roadblocks can be tough especially when everyone is counting on you to win the match.
“I’ve had to learn not to let one bad shot or hole ruin the rest of the round.” Themanson said.
Taking the time to think about the situation can help by providing a small break to focus on what’s in front. Focusing on the bad leads to bad performance and getting in the head but Themanson has learned to grow beyond the roadblocks and think about what good is coming out of the situation.
“My coaches and teammates help me stay focused and encouraged,” Themanson reflected.
The role of coaches and teammates is important to Themanson because without them, she wouldn’t have the support on the court. Cheering and giving positive feedback provides Themanson with comfort knowing that she has people who are there for her.
After her high school career is over, Themanson plans to go to college to become a nurse and play golf in her free time.
Overall, Caitlyn Themanson is a team player who strives to excel and make a positive impact both in competition and beyond it.
