Golf is not a game of perfection as competitors are challenged not only by course designs and weather conditions but also by maintaining a well-focused mental strategy to improve the numbers on their scorecard one swing at a time.

It’s an approach that continues to produce top of the leaderboard results for Kaden Risenhoover.

“I enjoy all the challenges the game of golf presents,” said the Stigler sophomore who qualified for the Class 3A state tournament last spring. “It has certainly taught me the importance of patience.”

In his first three tournaments in 2023, Kaden has finished first, second and third and has his swing plane taking dead aim on another state tournament appearance.

“Last year was fun to get there but I’m determined to earn a top-5 finish this year.”

Kaden began playing golf at the age of six taking both encouragement and instruction from his dad, Brad Risenhoover, who not only won a state championship in high school at Stigler but was also a two-time All-American while playing collegiate golf at Northeastern State University resulting in Hall of Fame honors.

Confident with his hybrid club in hand, Kaden strives to go from good, to better to best.

“Dad has taught me everything I know about the game,” said Kaden noting the competition often becomes a battle of will when the pair is on the course. “We go back and forth and it can get competitive at times but in all humbleness, I hope to reach his level of accomplishments some day.”

Hopeful that his Stigler teammates will join him in the state tournament again in May, Kaden understands the importance of leadership, both on and off the course.

“I believe leadership is an action not a position. I try to let my actions speak louder than my words.”

A true student of the game, Kaden has a list of tradition rich golf courses on his bucket list and would be thrilled to tee it up with a special foursome.

“Jordan Spieth is my favorite golfer. I like the person he is on and off the course,” Kaden said. “I’d really like the opportunity to play golf at TPC-Sawgrass paired with Spieth, my dad and my grandpa.”

With a future of opportunities still remaining including winning the gold medal at state, Kaden Risenhoover was eager to answer when asked what would be on his “champions dinner” menu?

“Steak, mashed potatoes, and a big class of sweet tea.”