Alina Gil: First Tee – Greater San Antonio Birdie Participant

My name is Alina Gil. I am a 7th grader at St. Luke Catholic School.  I am currently 12 years old. I joined the First Tee when I was 8, which makes it 4 years ago.  When I have free time I enjoy drawing, painting and playing with my dog.

What do you enjoy most about golf?
The things I most enjoy about golf is playing with my friends, and meeting new people. Something funny is, I like to snack in between holes in the golf cart.

What have you learned most since playing in tournaments?
What I have learned, from past tournaments, is that everyone has their own way of playing golf. Golf is a mental (mind challenging) game, and I have seen players handle their challenges differently. I have learned not to compare myself to anybody. Take this quote for example, “Be Yourself; Everyone Else Is Already Taken” – Oscar Wilde . Everyone has their own game, I set my goals to improve my previous score.

What is your favorite accomplishment with golf so far?
So far my favorite accomplishment with golf is when I got 1st place in the San Antonio Beltway Junior Championship tournament in my division. I also got a trophy for being player of the year!

How has First Tee helped prepare you for these events?
The First Tee has helped me by giving me friendships, courage, golf lessons and more. The First Tee has helped me get my 1st set of clubs. I was so happy and proud to get them! They prepared me in joining my school’s golf team. The effort and practices got me 1st and 2nd place in my school’s golf tournaments!

What are you looking forward to most with your golf game?
I am looking forward to get better with my golf game. In my future I want to be able to play in the LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association). I want to get to that level so I can be successful in golf and my life.