Sports

Heyon Choi ’25: Leading with Kindness and Dedication

When Heyon Choi ’25 walks onto the golf course, her kindness and support is visible to all players on her team. As Co-Captain of All-Gender Golf, Choi sets her teammates up to have fun every match and not take the game too seriously, all while remaining focused. She began playing golf at a young age and strives to improve on a daily basis.

Throughout her time on All-Gender Golf, Choi has learned from the team’s previous Co-Captains, who served as key role models. She also captained the team last season and strives to build a positive environment among her teammates. 

“Every [Co-]Captain I’ve had at Andover taught me something different. Lauren Lee ’22, my [Co-]Captain when I was a [Junior], taught me not to take things too seriously. During tryouts, I didn’t play well, but she helped me relax and just got my score,” said Choi. 

Choi continued, “Trey Wolfe ’23, my [Co-]Captain when I was a Lower, was incredible. He was our top player and also the [Co-]Captain of the Swim[ming and Diving] and Water Polo teams. He had a natural sense of leadership and always knew what to say. I’ve picked up some of my mannerisms from him.” 

Choi’s leadership style, Evan DeMayo ’26 described, is quiet yet impactful. 

“Heyon leads by example: never flashy, always dependable. She’s the first to step up when something needs to get done, and the last to take credit. That kind of leadership naturally earns respect and brings everyone together.” said DeMayo. 

DeMayo continued, “She’s impacted the team by showing us what quiet strength looks like. Her leadership isn’t loud, but it’s everywhere. She listens. She acts. And she makes us better—not just as athletes, but as people.” 

This Spring, the team’s girls triumphed —in combined points— at the storied Pippy O’Connor tournament, which features the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC)’s top golfers. Choi elaborated on the significance of the memorable victory. 

“It’s a girls’ championship in a co-ed league, and it was such an honor to win with the team. We had players from all grades, and it meant a lot to travel together, support each other, and play as a team. I didn’t expect to become a NEPSAC champion, but it happened, and I carry that with a lot of pride. Taking photos with the trophy and my teammates was a highlight. I think it also inspired the younger players to keep striving, even after I graduate,” said Choi. 

Sophia Liu ’28 reflected on Choi’s involvement in organizing and bringing people together by forming bonds with everyone on the team.

“She’s friends with everyone, and we’re all pretty close. I imagine she’s involved in organizing some of the team bonding events, but she mostly contributes by just being a steady, positive presence that brings people together. She’s motivating and encouraging to everyone, but also knows when to step in and keep things in check,” said Liu.

Being the team’s previous Co-Captain, Choi highlighted how she has changed over the season as a leader. That is, she mentioned being in the moment and staying in touch with the whole team.

“I was [Co]-Captain last year too, and I’ve changed since then. I’ve focused more on being present, both logistically and emotionally. That means helping teammates with golf and with balancing academics and athletics. This year, I put a lot of energy into communication, staying connected with everyone on our 17- or 18-person team. Making sure people knew when and where to be helped us become a strong, united group,” said Choi.

Editor’s Note: Heyon Choi ’25 was Executive Digital Editor for The Phillipian, vol. CXLVII.