Jenks’ Kate Dixon

On most school days, junior Kate Dixon can be found on the practice tee long after many of her classmates have gone home, chasing a standard for herself and the Jenks High School girls’ golf program.

Dixon is a three-year varsity member for the Lady Trojans and has emerged as one of the most consistent players in the area, placing in the top 10 at every tournament this season, including three runner-up finishes. She also earned first-team all-conference honors, a reflection of both her scoring and her steady presence in the lineup.

For Dixon, the foundation of her success starts with the team around her.

“I love that we are all so determined and motivated to get better every day and have such a good relationship with each other that makes the team so much fun,” Dixon said.

Representing Jenks, a school known for its athletic tradition, adds another layer of pride.

“Jenks is such an athletic and talented school, and it makes me happy that I get the chance to play for an amazing high school golf program,” she said.

Dixon models her game and mindset in part after one of the sport’s rising stars.

“Maria Josè Marin,” Dixon said when asked who inspires her. “She is a golfer at the University of Arkansas and recently won the Augusta National Women’s Amateur.”

Still, high school golf is not without challenges. Dixon said the mental side of the game can be the toughest test.

“The toughest part for me is keeping a positive mindset on the course and not putting myself down when I have bad holes,” she said.

Her favorite club is her wedge, a key weapon when she is attacking pins.

“My favorite club to hit is my wedge because I hit it consistent and it’s my favorite distance to hit into greens,” Dixon said.

Dixon’s favorite course is The Golf Club of Oklahoma, where the layout demands the kind of course management she is working to refine. She said she is focused on sharpening her putting and on-course strategies to round out what she considers a strong overall game.

She credits former teammate Sophia Lefler for showing her what it means to work.

“A former teammate that left an impression on me was Sophia Lefler, she showed me what hard work and dedication is and I was so lucky to have such a good role model like her,” Dixon said.

Jenks coach Smalley said Dixon’s work habits and performance set her apart.

“Kate is a junior three-year varsity member,” Smalley said. “She has placed in the top 10 in every tournament this season which includes three runner-ups. She was also first team all-conference. She is an excellent teammate and a very hard worker, always willing to go above and beyond to get herself ready for tournaments.”

After high school, Dixon hopes to continue her career at the next level.

“I would like to play college golf and major in something in the health and wellness field,” she said.