There can be any number of things that an athlete uses as motivation when they compete. For some, it can be the drive to continually improve their game, while others could use people in their lives to help them stay focused. And over their career, the motivation that they use can change. Nikki Pitts says that what she plays for has become something new recently.

“I definitely have changed my mindset on what motivates me this past year, and it is my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” she stated. “He strengthens me and gives me the opportunity to play the sport I love so much. I just want to play this sport in a way that glorifies Him. What also motivates me to play golf is definitely my teammates. They are my best friends, and I want to play well to help my team.”

Pitts is a sophomore at Stillwater High School, where she is a member of the golf team. She is also involved in a couple of groups outside of athletics.

“I am also involved in Beta Club and my local Klife chapter,” she said. “Having a place to go and learn about the Lord and worship Him with people my age is so special and I thank the Lord for giving me a place like it.”

Pitts’ teammates are a special group that she is thankful to be able to play alongside and share special moments on the course with.

“Every one of my teammates have made such a big impact on my life,” she said. “I am so grateful for all of them. I think the highlight moment of my career would have to be this season’s first two tournaments with my team, and getting to win. I’m not focused on the individual achievements, I’m focused on my team’s achievements.”

Throughout her life, there have been a number of people that have had some kind of an influence on Nikki, but she says that there are a couple that really made a big impact. 

“The biggest role model for me is most definitely my Grammy,” she said. “My Grammy coached at Oklahoma State University for twenty-four years and fought for the right that gives girls the opportunity to play golf. She is able to teach me so much about our sport and gives me insight on it that most people really don’t get. The teacher that made the biggest impact on my life is Ms.Janloo. I had her for two years and she has taught me so many fundamental skills that I will be able to use in the future.”