Rylie Andrews of St. Joseph’s Academy

This fall, St. Joseph’s Academy took home the win at the Missouri Class 4 girls golf championships. For team captain Rylie Andrews, the victory was the perfect way to end her high school career. It was a closing note made even sweeter by the fact that it was the school’s seventh consecutive victory—a state record. Now, she’s more than ready to take a swing at university and beyond.

When did you start playing golf?
My dad got me into it when I was around 6 or 7. I also played volleyball when I was younger. I’ve always been tall, so I figured that would be the sport I’d play. I ended up enjoying golf more, so in middle school I stopped playing volleyball. I realized that golf was where I wanted to focus my energy.

What is your favorite part about playing?
I just love that it’s so unique. There aren’t many sports that allow you to succeed as an individual and part of a team. In the summer, I can go play in tournaments on my own. I also get to spend time with my golf friends outside of St. Joe’s. Then in the fall, I come back to school and get to be part of an awesome team. We may all play our own games, but we’re still working together.

Do you plan to continue pursuing golf?
I verbally committed to play at Missouri State next year. I’m super excited, and I love that I’ll get to continue playing as part of a team in college.

How did it feel to lead the team to state championship victory in your senior year?
It was amazing. We lost three seniors that had been a part of the state team last year, so we worked hard to get better. Everyone stepped up, and we all came together to pull it off. For my last year at St. Joe’s, it was great to keep the winning streak going.

What are you looking forward to in your senior year?
Down the road, I’m looking forward to graduation and going to college, but there are a lot of fun events between now and then. Right now, I’m most excited for signing day, which is coming up.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I love listening to music. I really enjoy discovering new underground bands and then going to their concerts. I also like hanging out with my friends. I really do play a lot of golf. I don’t just see it as a commitment or job. It’s still a hobby that I do just because I enjoy it.