Writer and Photographer / JJ Kaplan
Lucy Stevens is about to begin another chapter in her life as she sets off for college this month at St. Johns University in New York. She received a full-ride scholarship for four years to an elite university to be a member of their prestigious women’s golf team.
This statuesque blonde with a perky demeanor exuded confidence and optimism with her warm handshake and soft eyes. As she shared her journey with me, I felt myself drawn to her with admiration of her trials and triumphs. By the end of our interview, I was awestruck by her fortitude and grace in how she views her life. What I saw is great wisdom in a young woman who is going to accomplish great things in her future. She is moving on to greener courses.
Daughter of William and Peggy Stevens, Lucy picked up her first set of golf clubs at age four… and they were Snoopy clubs, to boot! With her mom being a professional golfer, Lucy had coaching from day one, and she began to excel in the sport. Her mother encouraged her to be physically active and to enjoy a variety of sports. Through middle school, Lucy enjoyed yoga, weight lifting, stretching, biking, hiking, basketball, soccer, track and running. Her mother advised her to try all sports, but narrow it down and specialize once she got into high school.
As she completed middle school, she had a decision to make between playing basketball and golf. She enjoyed them both, suggesting “every basketball court looks the same, but every golf course is unique and outside, “Lucy explains. Golf was the easy winner.
After several moves before coming to Zionsville, and then the move of two middle schools into one high school, Lucy found herself searching for her sense of self, like many teens. Playing golf was one activity that helped her relieve stress and it helped give her a sense of identity.
“You just need to keep encouraging and being there for your child.” Peggy shares. “I always tried to stay connected to my daughter by taking the time to do things she enjoys…shopping, golfing. I was there when she needed me.” When she entered high school, she earned the #1 spot on the golf team as a freshman.
Lucy has learned to take it all in stride, the good along with the bad. “Every shot has a purpose, whether it is a good shot or bad shot.” Lucy continues, “A good shot teaches you that hard work and dedication pay off. But bad shots teach you that you need to adapt and stay in the game. I laugh whenever I make a bad shot because it is comic relief for me. Golf teaches sportsmanship and life lessons. Every skill on the golf course translates into a life skill.”
Lucy enjoys nature and the earthy connection that golf offers. According to her, “It makes me stop and smell the roses. All golf courses are beautiful and I appreciate the simplicity in nature. It’s difficult to have a bad day when you are surrounded by nature and beauty.”
When facing difficult times, she explains, “You don’t ask for a lesser load, but rather, broader shoulders.” She credits two mentors, Coach Jeff Anderson and Ann Obermeyer, for providing positive feedback and encouragement.
As Lucy packs her bags for college, she is looking forward to having extended family in the area. She shares, “I may become a pediatric oncologist or maybe go pro. It will all be good, no matter what comes my way. And I am excited for it to begin!”
We should all learn a lesson from Lucy in how to appreciate the beautiful things around us every day. Don’t compare yourself to others. Learn from your trials. And be grateful for your triumphs. We all face difficulties in life, but it is how you handle adversity that builds your character. There are many more green courses awaiting you just beyond the horizon!
