Thiets was shooting for her fourth consecutive appearance in the girls' golf state tournament at last week's Class 3A, Section 4 meet. She is also a guard on the Ponies' basketball team.

Any sports besides golf and basketball? I run cross-country in the fall but just to stay in shape for basketball. Nothing crazy.

Favorite sport? Either golf or basketball. It depends on the season. Right now, I'm leaning more toward golf.

Why? I think I'm better at it, and I have a shot at going further with golf.

How much better are you this year? A lot better. I practiced a lot at Stillwater Country Club last summer. I played with guys a lot and that helped me be more competitive. And I hit from the white tees.

Are you a long hitter? I hit it pretty far for a girl. My drives go about 230 yards.

Favorite hole at Stillwater C.C.? No. 13. It's a par 3, about 155 yards. I almost got a hole-in-one there once.

Most indispensable club? Definitely my putter. It's my baby. I don't polish it, but I don't let anyone touch it.

Toughest part about golf? Golf is more mentally challenging than basketball. It takes more mental toughness to keep your emotions intact.

Play high school golf in spring or fall? The fall because courses would be in better shape. And it would be a more accurate measure of an individual because they have all summer to prepare.

JIM PAULSEN