This isn’t the first time Abby Vernier has won a Pensacola News Journal award this week.
But this reward is definitely minimal compared to his accomplishment at the start of the week.
After finishing third at the Class 2A state golf tournament in Howey-in-the-Hills, Vernier established herself as one of the area’s top high school golfers. She recorded a two-day total of 148, bouncing back on the second day with a one-over par 72.
For her efforts, Vernier was named NPC Athlete of the Week after garnering 43.91% of the poll votes.
On Friday, Vernier was announced as the NPC Women’s Golfer of the Year. It’s safe to say she had a strong junior season with West Florida, who as a team reached the regional tournament for the first time in program history.
Next, she has some big tournaments coming up to start her high school golf offseason. And he still has one more high school season left to achieve some lofty — but certainly within reach — goals in his senior year.
Here’s a quick Q&A with Vernier after speaking with NPC sports reporter Ben Grieco.
Q&A with West Florida golfer Abby Vernier
NPC: Overall for your junior season, how do you think the year went?
Abby Vernier: “It was so much fun. We had a great team this year. Everyone was nice. … It was a fun time going to regionals for the first time in school history. We were all in the hotel room, having fun. …Then I got to declare it, which was fun.
NPC: What was it like going to regionals as a team, especially since it was your first time?
AV: “It’s a totally different experience. Your practice sessions and dinners with them gave me a taste of what college golf would be like. This made me excited for the future.
NPC: Speaking of the state tournament, you tied for third place. What worked for you during the tournament?
AV: “The first day, I had a little trouble. I had two tricky holes that raised my score a bit. Other than that, I feel like I played pretty solid. There are a few tight holes on the course, but I just had to recover a little with a short, solid game.
NPC: Given your proximity to the top, does this give you fuel for your senior year?
AV: “Definitely. I want to win it next year, so we’ll see what happens.
NPC: And in the long term? Have you thought about any of these big goals?
AV: “I want to lower my scoring average a little. I can’t remember what it is at the moment, but it’s closer to average – maybe below average. I also want to play in college. …I don’t think I’ll go pro. It’s not really in my vision.
NPC: Outside of high school golf, do you think all the offseason tournaments help you prepare for the fall?
AV: “Absolutely. I know other states, their season is in the spring. Going straight from summer golf to high school golf is really helpful because you’re still in that competitive mindset.
NPC: Do you have tournaments throughout the winter?
AV: “Florida is great for golf all year round. But I don’t have as many tournaments as in the summer, but I still try to warm up.
NPC: Do you have any tournaments coming up soon?
AV: “Yeah. I have one in New Orleans in early December, then one at Point Clear – the SJGT Tournament of Champions – and then I think I’ll play Tom Dorsey.
NPC: Now, a few quick questions. Do you have any pre-game superstitions or traditions that you follow?
AV: “I say a little prayer, then my parents and I have a little chat.”
NPC: A snack or meal to take away during or before the tour?
AV: “Before the tour, I usually have an egg sandwich – like bacon, egg and cheese – or a bowl of yogurt. Then, during the round, I cut a peanut butter and banana sandwich into quarters, and eat a portion every four holes.
NPC: Do you listen to music before a ride or when you warm up?
AV: “I listen to a lot of music. I like rock, reggae, country, really everything.
NPC: Someone specific?
AV: “Bob Marley or Led Zeppelin.”
NPC: Is there a dream course you’ve always wanted to play on?
AV: “My dream course was Pebble Beach, but I was able to play this over the summer. It was really fun to make.»
NPC: Is there anywhere else you’re watching now?
AV: “Probably St. Andrew’s.” It’s a classic. This would be fun to play.
NPC: How about a dream golfer you’ve always wanted to play with?
AV: “Nelly Korda, Viktor Hovland and Tiger Woods.”
NPC: Are there any major golf influences that you follow?
AV: “I love watching Good Good (a golf brand and group of golfers on YouTube). … Nelly Korda, I follow her a lot. And then Ellie Hildreth, she’s a junior golfer who’s a year older than me. She has lots of exercises and fun videos to watch.
This article was originally published in the Pensacola News Journal: West Florida golfer Abby Vernier wins Athlete of the Week award
