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HUNTSVILLE, Alabama — A trip to the golf course with her mother at 5 years old sparked Alison Hovatter’s desire to play golf, but a trip to her high school counselor’s office sparked her interest in becoming a mentor.

 The foundation, spearheaded by T.K. Bridges in 2004, promotes academic excellence, confidence, integrity, sportsmanship and nutrition for middle school students across the Tennessee Valley.

“We’ve had some good kids to come through our program,” Bridges said.

Bridges approached Hovatter, a Hazel Green High School graduate, about mentoring some young golfers after she applied for one of the foundation’s sponsored scholarships.

“I thought it was a great opportunity for her before she went off to school and she wanted to do it,” said Bridges. “I wanted them to see excellence in the game and she exemplified excellence in the game. She’s a role model.”

This was Hovatter’s first year mentoring, and although slightly apprehensive, she was happy to help Alaina and Emily Palmer become better players. And she said it’s great practice for her because she aspires to become a golf coach.

“I’m able to help out younger kids and it’s important to me because it helps develop character. It’s so amazing to see somebody come out there that just started playing the game and really wants to get better,” Hovatter said. “I try to be positive around them and give them positive encouragement because that’s how I am.”

Both sisters have benefited from Hovatter’s advice on character, patience and resilience.

“Now, they’re back on track and want to play college golf. I’m trying to get them prepared, but it’s a long road. I’ve been telling them to keep working at it,” Hovatter said. “Each time I give them something new, I can actually see them doing it and improving. When they go away from practice, I want them to feel better about themselves. I can see a lot (in them) of how I was when I was younger and that’s cool too.”

Hovatter is one of four student-athletes to complete this year’s signing class for the University of Mississippi women’s golf team.

“It’s such a great program. I feel like I can grow. I’m still trying to learn what I need to do and become better as a personal player,” Hovatter said.

Hovatter wants to stay in touch with the Palmer sisters after she leaves for Ole Miss by answering emails and checking their progress whether they keep playing golf or not.

“I hope to see where they end up. Even if they don’t play college golf, I still hope they play no matter what. It’s a game of a lifetime,” she said.

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