Vivian Lu, who is currently the number one player for the University of Washington’s women’s golf team, has had an amazing start to her 2024-25 campaign. With a top-five finish in three of the Huskies’ four fall tournaments, Lu has found herself in the spotlight.
HOW WE GOT HERE
She attributes her success this season, and in general, to her dad, the person who pushed her into playing golf in the first place.
“I first started when I was nine years old…My dad bribed me to start,” said Lu. “I was an iPad kid, so my dad said if I didn’t go practice every day, I wouldn’t get my iPad.”
During the first golf tournament she ever played as a young kid, Lu had lots of fun but mentioned that she had finished second to last without realizing it. Ever since then, she has been diligent in her efforts to get better.
In the offseason between her freshman and sophomore years at UW, Lu worked long hours with her dad to improve her game. She says he is the main motivator for her to be able to compete at such a high level.
“My dad has always been there for me since I was little. He was the one who took me to practice and took me traveling, so I am very grateful for both my parents and my dad especially. He was out there with me, whether it was raining or windy or hot or cold, he was there.”
Even as a top player for UW, Lu used the offseason to progress and refine specific areas of her game.
“Yes, I was working on my driver speed because although I don’t hit it short, you can always hit further. It’s just an advantage.”
A JOURNEY FROM AUCKLAND TO SEATTLE
Golf has always been the main sport in Lu’s life. She grew up studying hard and competing in tournaments at a high level. She was born and raised in Auckland, New Zealand but mentioned there were a few reasons she decided to come to the Pacific Northwest.
“Growing up in New Zealand, there were actually quite a few girls who came to UW, so that was always in the forefront of my mind when I was playing. Then, one of my best friends growing up played golf – she’s also on the golf team but she’s a year older than me. She came here and then it kind of made sense for me to come too. I also came on my official visit and the campus is just so amazing.”
Another key aspect of her decision to come to Washington involved Husky head coach Mary Lou Mulflur, who Lu called…
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