“Fore” — it’s a word in golf that no player wants to yell or hear being yelled from behind them, but you won’t hear it coming from Daniela Ortiz, junior communication studies major, a member of the NSU women’s golf team.
A native of Morelia, Mexico, Ortiz came to NSU in fall 2011. She credits her family for getting her involved in the sport at a young age. Her father enjoyed playing golf and would bring her to the course with him whenever he could. But he wasn’t the only family member that helped develop her love of the sport.
“My grandparents lived on a golf course, so it was easy to go out and hit balls,” said Ortiz.
In 2009 and 2010, Ortiz competed at the LPGA Tres Marias Championships and was named the best Mexican Amateur for the tournament both years. Her amateur success continued in 2012 when she qualified for the U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship, among a record 1,123 entries. The U.S. Women’s Amateur is one of the United States Golf Association’s original three championships.
Ortiz’s career at NSU has been filled with many individual and team accomplishments. In spring 2012, at the end of her freshman season, Ortiz was named a NGCA First-Team All-America Selection, was selected as the Sunshine State Conference Freshman of the Year and was an All-SSC first-team member. She was helped her Sharks to their fourth consecutive national title.
There was no “sophomore slump” for this athlete, because in 2013 Ortiz finished the season nationally ranked fourth, and was a NGCA Division II All-America first-team selection. She was also chosen as an All-Sunshine State Conference first-team selection, thanks to her top-10 finishes in each of that spring season’s seven tournaments.
Ortiz credits her success to staying in the moment when out on the golf course. She doesn’t dwell on any mistakes that may occur when playing a round. She said that it’s all part of the game, as everyone has bad shots and bad rounds.
“You just have to accept it. Get the most out of it, learn from it and try to not do it again,” said Ortiz.
There is nothing about the sport of golf that Ortiz doesn’t love. The good, the bad and the ugly — she can appreciate and learn from it all.
“I love every part of it, even the bad rounds. I enjoy every shot, or at least I try to,” said Ortiz. “Without failure there is no success.”
I sat down with Daniela to ask her a few questions.
How long have you been playing golf?
I’ve been playing since I was 8.
What one word best describes your golf game?
Passionate.
What is the best part of your game?
My ball striking is my best aspect.
Do you have any rituals before starting your round?
I listen to classical music while hitting balls. It helps me stay calm.
What scares you on the golf course?
I’m scared of ever losing my calm or control out there.
Who is your favorite athlete?
Justin Rose. I love his swing. He’s a great person, not just a golfer. I admire him for both.
