Student Spotlight: Riley

Meet Riley, a competitive golfer and ninth-grade student at Virginia Virtual Academy.

Driving Toward Greatness

Riley first began teeing off when she was two-years-old. By the time she was five, she was playing in tournaments. And now, at age 14, she is making a name for herself in the competitive world of junior golf.

A ninth-grade student at VAVA, Riley recently placed eighth in her second Under Armour Nationals Junior Tour – up from a 15th-place finish during her first year. She’s now headed to Orlando in July to compete at the Under Armour World Event, where she’ll join more than 800 international players.

“Golf has just always been part of my life,” she says. And it shows: her steady rise in the rankings earned her a coveted spot on the Under Armour All-American Team.

Lessons, Tournaments, and Time Management

Riley’s days are busy – she practices for two hours daily and has private lessons three times a month. She also competes in at least two tournaments per month, with a mix of local and travel events. During April and May, she will compete in six tournaments. That kind of schedule demands serious discipline – and that’s where VAVA’s flexible online structure plays a key role.

She’s able to complete her coursework around her tournament schedule, often getting ahead when she knows a busy week is coming. Her favorite subject? Geography, thanks to her teacher who brings the world to life.

“Without VAVA, I wouldn’t be able to train and travel the way I do,” Riley says.

Riley has her sights set on college golf, with UNC, Virginia Tech, and Wake Forest at the top of her list. Her ultimate goal, however, is a career on the LPGA Tour. And with her talent, work ethic, and experience, that dream feels well within reach.

Virtual Education for the Win

Riley was previously homeschooled when the family realized that they needed to find a school that was accredited in order for her to play college golf. For Riley and her family, VAVA has given her the flexibility to train seriously, compete consistently and thrive academically.

It’s a balance many young athletes strive for – and Riley is proof that with the right support, it’s more than possible.

Follow Riley’s journey as she heads to the World Event this July – and stay tuned for more updates as she continues driving toward her dreams!

Is Online Learning Right for Your Family?

Virtual education is one of the many choices out there for your child. Explore Virginia Virtual Academy and discover how our flexible online programs can empower your child to thrive, graduate early, and achieve their goals sooner. Click here to get started today!

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