In golf, when a player writes down the number 4, it’s typically the accomplishment of a par representing the number of strokes an “expert” golfer is expected to make on the hole. On a student’s transcript, the number 4 or higher signifies excellence in academic achievement. For Rylie Spaulding, her golf scorecard and report card are equal to that of a Master’s champion.
A four-year member of the Wagoner girls’ golf team, Spaulding has been part of their success including state tournament qualifying results in recent seasons and currently leads the Lady Bulldogs pursuit to win the Class 4A team title this spring.
In the classroom, Rylie not only has achieved a 4.44 GPA and Valedictorian honors for the Class of 2022, but will graduate from high school having already earned a college degree through mastering concurrent classes at Connors State College.
In golf terms, Spaulding has scored an “ace”.
“Being able to maintain college classes and high school classes is not easy,” admits the 2022 senior. “At Wagoner, we have concurrent hours where we can leave the school for every college hour we have. At this time, I am able to go home and work on college homework. Taking college classes while in high school demands good time management skills.”
On the golf course where she continues to find the fairway, Spaulding’s accomplishments are well noted.
“My lowest round in competition is a 74. My best individual finish is 2nd place in several tournaments to help my team win team championships,” replied Spaulding. “I have placed first in numerous PGA South Central Junior Tour and US Kids golf tournaments where I have won Player of the Year in both leagues.”
The golf score results have afforded Spaulding the opportunity to play collegiate golf on scholarship at Oklahoma Baptist University majoring in Biology Pre-Med while pursuing her career choice degree as an orthopedic surgeon or dermatologist.
Spaulding’s “extra” efforts include leadership in numerous clubs at Wagoner including National Honor Society, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, FCCLA, Mu Alpha Theta, Science Club, Native American Club, student council as well as playing varsity volleyball.
How does she do everything right? What makes Rylie so successful?
“You have to be dependable, honest, and hard working. I believe hard working is the most important because you have to do things with full effort and do them right the first time in life,” Spaulding replied with a look of sincere commitment.
She defines her DNA as the character of being a Wagoner Bulldog.
Good character is important because it makes other people trust or respect you, it is a good self-reflection, and you have a better outlook on life,” she said. “To be a Wagoner Bulldog means being part of a tight knit school and community that is competitive and thriving. Wagoner is competitive not only in sports but in academics as well. Being a Bulldog means striving for the best in all arenas. Being the best is something that Rylie Spaulding continues to set as the standard that others might follow her into the winner’s circle.
