Blackwell High School’s Ilana Brown is in her second year as a varsity golfer, but playing golf is not a new sport for her.

“I am an eleventh grader this year but have played golf with my dad since I was little,” Brown said.

Despite the team at Blackwell being small, Brown said she loves to hit the course and represent her school with her teammate.

“My team is very small. It is me and Keitlynn Rios. My favorite thing about her is how persistent and goofy she is. My favorite course to play is my home course in Blackwell. That course will always hold a special place in my heart being where I learned to golf and where I golfed with my dad and little brother, Landon,” she said.

Academics are important to Brown as well.

“Academics have always been a huge deal from a young age. I love to strive for the top and show all my capabilities. My current favorite teacher is my Pioneer Technology Center instructor Mrs. Garrison because she is super understanding and makes learning tons of fun. And if we are talking about high school, it would be Mrs. Paige, the yearbook teacher, because she is always there to lend a helping hand,” she said.

Brown is a member of STUCO, serves as an FCCLA officer and is a member of National Honor Society. Brown said she plans on attending college to obtain a degree and work as an RN and emergency nurse or pediatric nurse.

The junior said her father has been a big influence in her life.

“My biggest influence has been my dad, Brian. He has always helped when I needed it, and even when I didn’t think I needed it. He’s been my No. 1 supporter and has continually loved me, even though I like to annoy him quite often,” Brown said.