Lily Varnes '22 Recruiting Profile

I am a senior this year at Pierce County High School in Blackshear, GA, and I am 18 years old. February 2022 I will be going into my last season as a Pierce County Bear, and without a doubt I know golf is my obsession and no matter what obstacles I come across, I intend to pursue my love for the game after high school.

I joined the PCHS golf team my freshman year, but it was not until this past year, in 2021 that I invested my time, and skills, into practice and conditioning. My average Score now is eighty (80), with a handicap of 5.1. I am a resolute and devoted player, and I plan for my average score at the end of this season to be seventy-five (75), or below. I genuinely believe that with hard work, and my endeavor to persevere I can achieve these goals. I have worked diligently on strength training and built my driver up to a consistent 250 yds, or more. During my last High School golf season, I achieved PCHS Golfer of the year, Low Medalist of the year, and during the season received three Athlete of the week awards. However, my greatest achievement last year was helping with the growth of my team and seeing what amazing players and hard workers they are. We went from a small team of only four, to holding our own against the largest teams in the 1AAA division, with a third place. We plan to return this year for the state Title.

After last season, I spent the summer practicing, and playing in tournaments, competing wherever I could. I placed first at the North American Junior golf - Chateau Elan Championship, ages 15-18 girls, with an 82 and a 75. I also placed First at the Chris Haack University of Georgia Golf Camp, during the 17–18 girls’ tournament. Later, I played in the Faldo Southeastern Hurricane Series, placing third. Sadly, although I had qualified, I did not get to continue in the series, as I was placed in a boot for a sprained ankle. This was one of the hardest periods for me as a golfer, and really made me realize how much I wanted to play. Nothing could stop me from getting out there, I worked through physical therapy exercises, and strength training. I became challenged again when I returned to practice, as my golf game plateaued. At that time, I not only questioned who I was as a player, but it also drove me to push harder. My previous coach used to always say “through blood, sweat and tears,” and I refused to let that plateau continue. I am still pushing today and looking back I am now healthier and stronger as an athlete. I look forward to pursing my career in golf, because it is not only my passion, but an obsession that pulls me out to the course 24/7, to outwork, and push myself to be the best athlete, golfer, and student I can be.

I am my own competitor, and I will outwork the competition.