ALEXIS EKSTROM / GOLF

Sophomore Alexis Ekstrom strides through the halls of Hillcrest High School, hauling her golf clubs. A pink unicorn golf club cover belies her competitiveness.

STATUS: Sophomore in the International Baccalaureate program at Hillcrest High School.

STARTED PLAYING GOLF: Freshman year.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Qualified for regionals and made the all- district academic team in 2018.

WHY SHE STARTED PLAYING: Dad, Doug Ekstrom, always played and inspired her.

TRAINING ROUTINE: In addition to practicing at school, she plays golf with her dad on a course and at the driving range on the weekends.

FAVORITE TOURNAMENT

MEMORY: Regionals. “It rained all day, and we were sopping wet, but it was really fun,” she says.

BEST ADVICE: “My dad told me to take my time instead of rushing into a swing. Take a breath, and take it slow and steady.”

ATHLETIC GOAL: To earn a scholarship.

PRE-TOURNAMENT

RITUAL: “I pray and ask God to help guide me.”

BALANCING SPORTS AND ACADEMICS: “Devote time to get your work done instead of procrastinating.”

HOW SHE RELAXES: “Hanging out with my family, whether we're playing board games or watching a movie.”

WHY SHE HAS A PINK

UNICORN GOLF COVER: “I saw it and begged my dad to get it for me. He finally caved, and I've had that since I started golfing.”

MOST COVETED EQUIPMENT: Pitching wedge.

EXTRA BONUS: One-onone time with her father on the course. “It’s our thing. It’s brought us closer together.”