Student Spotlight
Writer / Matt Keating
Photography Provided
Samantha Brown, a junior at Westfield High School, is now one of the top-ranked girls golfers in the state, thanks to her dedication to the sport, as well as the unwavering support of her coaches and teammates.
Her father, Zane N. Brown Jr., says Samantha has loved golf since she was incredibly young, and has always wanted to improve.
“Samantha started swinging a golf club at the age of 6, but did not get serious about the sport until the summer before she was in the sixth grade,” he says.
Samantha was interested in other sports at the time, and dedicated herself to getting better at those activities. “Samantha grew up playing soccer and decided to give that up after seventh grade to focus on playing golf, with the goal to play varsity golf at Westfield as a freshman,” Brown says.
Samantha also loves being part of a hard-working team with a shared goal of continuing to improve. “Samantha really prefers playing golf as part of a team versus playing as an individual,” Brown says. “Cheering for teammates, encouraging her team, and having support from her teammates before, during and after the good and bad rounds are the highlights of her team experience.”
Samantha enjoys keeping busy and continually improving her golf game. She is always ready to practice more.
“Samantha has had a heavy golf travel schedule over the past few spring and summer seasons, and always looks forward to getting back to team golf in the fall,” Brown says.
Outside of golf, Samantha enjoys spending time with her two sisters, Kate, 13, and Brooklyn, 10.
“Samantha has always enjoyed traveling with her family, and loves helping mom and dad plan family vacations,” Brown says.
Samantha is already planning where she will be attending college.
“Samantha feels very fortunate to have interest from a number of schools, and expects to make a decision on which college she will attend within the next month,” Brown says.
She is excited about having different school options. “Samantha is currently undecided on a specific major, but has interest in pursuing a business degree, probably in marketing or finance,” Brown says.
Samantha loves the support she has received from her teammates, coaches and friends. She has benefited from all of their help.
“Since moving to Westfield from Fishers five years ago, Samantha has enjoyed making new friends, and feels blessed to have found an incredible support group that includes the Westfield Washington Schools teachers, Westfield Middle School golf coaches and Westfield High School golf coaches,” Brown says.
*Sponsored by Wittler Orthodontics