Even though she’s the elder stateswoman on the Warrenton girls’ golf team, Sofi Murphy is still fairly new to the sport itself.

Being the only senior for the Warriors, it would be easy to think that Murphy would be a grizzled veteran.

That just isn’t the case, she said.

“I was 17 when I first picked up a club,” Murphy said. “I had never played golf before that. I like that there are individual and team scores. I play because I enjoy it, but also because I love the girls on the team.”

Warrenton Coach Don Huff said Murphy’s age doesn't put her in a position of guidance.

It’s simply who she is, the coach said.

“Being a senior did not automatically give her a leadership role,” Huff said. “But the fact that she embraces helping her teammates and communicates well with the girls and me makes it a natural fit. She leads by example and through her actions and words. Before each match or tournament, she leads our team prayer. She leads because others respect her. She is morally sound and kind to others. On the course, Sofi is very competitive. She gives each shot her best effort.” 

While Murphy has earned the respect of her coaches and teammates many times over, another interesting aspect of the golfer stands out.

She’s more than just holding her own in her newfound sport.

Her ‘best effort’ has led to a seventh-place finish this season.

Huff said that Murphy’s ability to put the ball into the hole when she’s near more than makes up for not crushing the ball.

“While she is not the longest hitter, her short game and putting are her strengths,” Huff said. “Like all golfers, I’m sure she wishes she was even more consistent with her play.”

Murphy, who is also a member of the Warrenton stunt team, said she clearly has her educational future mapped out.

She said the nursing field is what interests her.

“My grades are very good, in my opinion – all A’s,” Murphy said. “My favorite class is probably science classes, right now I’m in health occupations. My plans after high school are to go to college, either Missouri Baptist or St. Charles Community College. I want to go into nursing, specifically pediatrics.”

While golf has been fun, Murphy said, it’s something that will stay just that for her – a fun activity that she may not have discovered if not for her high school experience.

Athletically, stunt is what will hold her interest after the fall, Murphy said.

While competitive golf may not be the thing for Murphy, she said she can see herself playing the sport as a pastime.

“I’m not sure if I’ll continue with golf competitively, but I’m leaning towards no, mostly because I want to continue with stunt instead,” Murphy said. “I will continue to play for fun. I like how supportive and involved everyone is. This program has helped me become more outgoing, meet new people every match, and try new things.”