East County Athlete of the Week: Phoenix Scanlan

Phoenix Scanlan is a freshman on the Lakewood Ranch High girls golf team. As of Oct. 2, Scanlan is ranked 21st in Class 3A by the Florida High School Athletic Association. Scalan took medalist honors at the Mustangs' Sept. 26 match against Cardinal Mooney High at Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club's Royal Lakes course, shooting a two-under-par 34. 

When did you start playing golf?

I started when I was 5 years old. We lived in a house in Panther Ridge that had a lot of land in the backyard. Some family friends bought me a set of clubs and I just started hitting down this huge plot of land. 

What is the appeal to you?

It is super competitive. It is difficult sport. When you're not playing great, you want to say, "This is not good at all." But at the same time, it keeps pulling you toward it. When you hit that one good shot, it just drives you. You want to do it again and keep getting better. 

What has the transition to varsity golf been like?

Middle school golf is not as team-oriented. We played events together but that was it. This is different. We're a good team. We all support each other, win or lose. It was been a surprise, but a good one. 

What is your best skill?

Shot-wise, my irons have been getting me close to the pin. That part of my game has been solid. But in general, my mental game has been working the best. I'm staying in the moment. I used to be up and down mentally. Now I can stay focused. I think it comes from getting more experience. 

What have you been trying to improve?

I'm trying to be a good teammate. Like I said, this is new to me. Golf is usually individual. I'm working on being "in it" with the team. 

What are your goals for this season?

Lakewood Ranch has gone to the state tournament 10 years in a row. I think it would be cool to keep that going. If we get there, I just want to do my best and contribute how I can. 

What is your favorite food?

I love fried rice and things like teppanyaki. 

What is your favorite TV show?

One hundred percent, it has to be "Friends."

What are your hobbies?

Honestly, I'm usually using down time to rest or hang out with my friends. I don't get a lot of that time, so I try to use it wisely. 

Which superpower would you pick?

Something to do with the mind. Either telepathy or telekinesis. 

What is your favorite school subject?

I like language arts. I'm not the most fond of reading books usually, but that class makes you read them. Once I get into a book, I'll realize I actually do like it. 

What is the best advice you have received?

There are no shortcuts in golf. A lot of people want to hit their goals as soon as possible, and if you're able to do that, that's great. But sometimes that can backfire. I think it's better to take your time and make sure you have a plan. Don't cut corners to get there faster. Play the long game and make sure you know what you're doing. You'll get there eventually. 

Finish this sentence: "Phoenix Scanlan is … "

Hard-working. I want to go to college and become a professional at golf. I'm going to make sure I work toward that.