Practice makes perfect, and junior Mary Shin has been practicing since she was 9.

“My family plays golf, so I naturally got into. It’s just a family hobby. I like how it’s really different from other sports. The practice is always different from the real play so it gives me a new challenge every time I go out.”

Recently she earned a place on the 2016 Transamerica Scholastic Junior All-America Team, consisting of 12 young men and 12 young women who excel in golf, school and the community. “To be one of the 12 young women selected on this national team is truly an honor, and I am so thankful to my parents for pushing me to do my best on the course and also in school”

In addition to this prestigious award, Shin also got an exemption from the 2016 Polo Golf Junior Classic, which is considered one of the most prestigious events in junior golf. “ I could not have made it without my family and also Sage’s help, and I look forward to playing in the Polo in Florida this November!”

Shin is still undecided whether or not she wants to go pro. She says “I think during college I will make that decision whether to focus on golf. If I don’t play golf professionally, I will probably go into business.”