Sophomore Nikki Thareja sits in the crouch position, measuring the distance from her to the target, just like a tiger. Tiger Woods, that is.

She has only been playing golf since eighth grade, but since the first time she picked up a club, she has been hooked.

“Most people think golf is boring, but it is mentally exhausting. It requires players to plan three or even four strokes ahead to beat the opponent,” Thareja said.

Thareja is the No. 11 player on the varsity team and has continued to compete with the best of the best, helping the Falcons win three of their opening matches. According to her teammates, Thareja has the natural talent necessary to excel at golf, but that isn’t her best attribute.

“Not only is Nikki an excellent golfer, she is smart and works hard,” sophomore golfer Emily Nguyen said.

Thareja practices three times every week as a way to relax and get away from her hectic schedule, which not only consists of school, but also dance. She credits her success to her hard work and relentless desire to succeed.

During the season, Thareja has work on all facets of her game to become an all-around player.
The work Thareja has put in has clearly reflected on the course as Saratoga is off to a great start beating Homestead, 222-247, and Live Oak, 268-279. Fellow teammates have said that her playing ability has helped the team, but the selfless sophomore directs her own personal success to the success of the team.

“I think I’m getting better, but it’s not about me, it’s about what the teams needs to win,” Thareja said.