Student Athlete of the Week: Ayla Schatz

For Niwot High School senior Ayla Schatz, this golf season has been one to enjoy.

"It's more fun this year and a lot less stressful," Schatz said. "It's felt very calm."

Schatz has been a part of the girls golf program since her freshman year, but she has been swinging a club for much longer. She started playing when she was about 11 or 12 years old, encouraged by her dad to give it a try.

"My dad was the reason I got started," she said. "He really wanted me to play."

Over the years, golf became more than just a hobby. By the time she got to high school, Schatz started taking it seriously. Now, as a senior, she brings experience, focus, and a sense of calm to every round.

"Ayla's been really dedicated to the program," Niwot coach Ed Weaver said, "She's consistently improved over her four years and brings a good attitude every day."

Part of that comes from her own routines. Before every round, Schatz listens to Jack Johnson to get in the right mindset. "It puts me in a good mood," she said.

She also has a small ritual before every drive where she hits her heels before setting her feet. It is a simple habit, but one that helps her feel consistent and ready.

Weaver said Schatz stands out not just for her skill, but for the way she contributes to the team dynamic. "She's really likeable," he said. "She likes to have fun with the girls. They joke around quite a bit, but she knows when it's time to focus."

One tournament that still stands out in her memory came during her sophomore year. Schatz played in the regional tournament that season, and it remains the most memorable experience of her golf career so far.

"It was the one that I struggled with a lot, but I still kept trying, and I never gave up," she said. "It made me proud of myself for continuing to try even though it wasn't going well."

While golf has been a major part of her time at Niwot, Schatz is involved in plenty of other activities, too. She also plays volleyball and participates in Key Club and Cookies for Charity. Balancing academics, athletics, and service work keeps her schedule full, but she enjoys being part of different communities at school.

In the classroom, Schatz looks forward to Spanish. "It's the most enjoyable," she said. "And I feel like it's a class where I learn new things."

As she finishes out her final season of high school golf, Schatz is focused on enjoying each round and appreciating the journey. Whether she is practicing with teammates or lining up a shot during a tournament, she is making the most of every opportunity.

After four years of matches, tournaments, and long practices, it is the calm and fun of her senior year that has made this season feel especially meaningful. With a steady mindset and a love for the game, Schatz is closing out her time as a Cougar with confidence and gratitude.

"She's definitely going to be missed next year," Weaver said.