Chip Shots: Meet Freshman Anna Ritter

Hello Illini Nation!

This is freshman Anna Ritter and I am so excited to write my first-ever Chip Shots about my transition to college golf!

Arriving on campus this August to start my first year of college was an extraordinary experience that was full of emotion. At times it was overwhelming to take on new challenges as a student-athlete, however, as a member of the women’s golf Team here at the U of I, I have had a significant advantage as my older teammates have graciously shared their experiences and advice to help me right from the start.

In addition, my coaches, the athletic and academic staffs here at the U of I have been so welcoming and friendly. They all have wanted to learn about me as an athlete but also about my life outside of golf. It has been very comforting to know how much they all care about me.

The alumni and community members around Urbana-Champaign have also made me feel like a part of the Illini family. Early in the semester, my team and I took part in the Illinois Women’s Golf Classic, which is a fundraiser golf outing that supports our program. It was amazing during the outing and dinner to have the chance to meet so many alumni who care so deeply about this university and have a passion for our program. I loved hearing some of them tell stories about their time at Illinois.

The highlight of the fall to this point for me was getting to play in the Illini Women’s Invitational at Medinah Country Club. I was so excited to finally be able to wear the orange and blue while competing in a tournament. I enjoyed spending time with my teammates throughout the drive to the course from campus, at dinners and having conversations about our rounds in the hotel at night. Our team was fortunate to have a big support system at our home invite, between the alumni and volunteers, it was comforting and exciting to see so many people wearing Illini gear around the course while we were competing.

I have big aspirations for my college golf career and that is why I decided to come to the University of Illinois. When I am not in the classroom, I have been focused on working hard on my game with my teammates so we can get better each day, striving to achieve our goals. I look forward to sharing more about my journey in future editions of Chip Shots.

I-L-L!

Anna Ritter