ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Sophie Benetti

Benetti, who golfs at the No. 1 position for the program, finished with a 42 at the Metro Championship (along with teammate Jennifer Jung). She has also received a scholarship to play for Indiana State University.


How would you characterize your play over the past few weeks?
It’s been my best rounds in high school. I’ve probably scored an average of around even par throughout the past couple weeks, and it’s really making me excited for state and regionals, because this year, I think we really have a chance.

How do you feel your senior season is coming along?
It’s going well. I’ve played No. 1 on the team for, like, three years, but this year was definitely the strongest, and we have a couple of new freshmen who are good. It’s exciting.

Will you be competing at the college level?
I committed to college already at Indiana State University.

When did you pick up the game?
My dad (Matt Benetti) is a professional teacher, so I started playing when I was 4 years old. I started playing in serious tournaments around 8 (years old).

What’s the best aspect of your game right now?
It jumps around, but probably right now, it is my short game. It’s saved me.

Which element of your game are you focusing on improving?
I’m working on increasing my distance off the tee with my driver. It’s not bad, it’s just the difference between a couple shots — those birdies on the par fives.

Which golfer do you admire the most?
I don’t really watch women’s golf, so I’m going to say Adam Scott.

Which course that you’ve played through varsity competition has been your favorite?
We get to play Bay Hill, which is amazing.

What’s the best shot you’ve hit during your high school career?
Last year, I had a hole-in-one in a tournament, in a match at Orange County National.

What’s your favorite sport to watch on television? 
Probably football.

What’s the last movie you saw in theaters?
“Let’s be Cops.” It was so funny.

What’s the best golf advice you’ve received over the years?
Always play one hole and one shot at a time — don’t let your mind get ahead.

What are you planning on studying at Indiana State?
I’m jumping back-and-forth between pre-med and communications. We’ll see.

Among Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas, which upcoming holiday are you looking forward to the most?
Thanksgiving — food.

Where are you from, originally?
I was born in Racine, Wisconsin. It’s the Milwaukee area.

Any other hobbies besides hitting the links?
I bake a lot. I’ve looked into doing that, too, as a career — but I don’t know.