Each week during the school year, the Naples Daily News will select players who stood out from the previous week based on a combination of coaches reports and school nominations sent to sports@naplesnews.com and our own coverage. These athletes will be voted on every Monday on naplesnews.com, and readers can vote for who they think worked the hardest. Winners of the Naples Daily News Athlete of the Week voting sponsored by Elevate Home Services will receive a T-shirt provided by BSN Sports and a tote bag provided by USA Today High School Sports Awards. To learn more about the winners, Naples Daily News will conduct weekly Q&A sessions with each athlete.
The Naples Daily News Athlete of the Week, sponsored by Elevate Home Services from Oct. 14-19, was First Baptist golfer Eva Lai. Mr Lai received 61% of the votes. To earn the nomination, the senior shot a 3-under 33 against St. John Newman to take first place, and another 3-under 33 against Fort Myers.
Question: When did you start playing golf? What attracted you to the sport?
Lye: I started playing golf in the 6th grade. I started playing golf because my dad has played professionally all his life and I enjoyed playing with him.
What has been the highlight of your golf career so far?
Lye: I really enjoyed playing in tournaments, especially FHSAA state and winning the SFPGA Junior Cup this summer.
Do you have any sort of routine before heading out to the rink?
Lye: I do a little stretching and listen to relaxing music.
Are there any golfers in the U.S. or abroad that you admire or enjoy watching? If so, why?
Rai: I admire Nelly Korda. Because her swing is really good and she keeps a steady mind on the course.
Previous Winner: NDN Athlete of the Week by Elevate Home Services for September 30-October Winner 5: Nathan Edwards of Naples
If you weren’t playing golf, what sport would you participate in and why?
Lye: If I hadn’t played golf, I probably would have done track and field, because before I played golf, I did track and field.
What are your goals for the rest of the season?
Lye: My goal is to play well at district, regional and state and maybe win one or two of them.
What are your future plans after graduating from high school?
Rye: I plan to play golf at High Point University next fall, and then I hope to play professionally.
