If you were to attend a North Atlanta golf practice, before you could even see him, you’d most likely hear varsity boy’s golf captain Ari Walsey screaming at the top of his lungs at the fellow golfers on the North Atlanta team. Although this may seem weird for a sport like Tennis, which is known for its quiet and tranquil atmosphere, the energy that Walsey brings is a defining part of the team, and one that helps uplift and motivate his teammates.
Playing since his freshman year, it is obvious that Walsey is no beginner when it comes to golf, and that much is evident in his role as Varsity team captain. The work that he put in did not come easily, it is the result of countless hours on the range, including sessions of missed shots and frustration. However, this dedication has paid off, and it has allowed him to establish the high standard that he holds himself to each and every time he steps foot on the course. “I’m putting in that work every day,” said Walsey. “If a day goes by where I don’t improve, then that day was a failure.”
The golf course is not the only place that Walsey holds himself to a high standard. Walsey is a multi-sport varsity athlete, and he brings the same energy to the golf team as he does to North Atlanta’s Ultimate Frisbee team. Walsey has been a member of the team since his freshman year, and is one of the team’s primary handlers. Many of the skills that he uses in Ultimate Frisbee comes naturally from his golf experience, as keeping his composure and staying calm under pressure is important in both sports. “When I have the disc in my hands, I know it’s my job to make something magic happen,” said Walsey.
Although sports may seem like the most predominant aspect of his life, academics is by far the most important. Walsey holds himself to the same high standard, if not higher, in the classroom as he does on the field. As an IB DP student, he has had a lot on his plate to manage in his high school career between academics and sports, and he has done so almost flawlessly. Walsey was admitted to the University of Georgia in Athens, where he will be joining his older brother. “I’m excited for these next couple of years,” said Walsey. “Hopefully I’ll be able to keep doing what I do at UGA.”
With a spot at the Terry College of Business, Walsey will continue to bring the energy that he’s brought with him throughout high school. Although he will be trading in his golf clubs for business textbooks, he’ll still be making sure every shot he makes counts, whether it’s on the course or in the classroom.
