Susquehannock High School’s Kendel Abrams Participates in John Deere Drive Your Future Academy

Susquehannock golfer Kendel Abrams recently participated in the John Deere Drive Your Future Academy in Atlanta, GA through The First Tee of Greater Baltimore.

The Drive Your Future Academy is a new all-girls program which focuses on leadership development, volunteerism, teamwork, and the value of being active in golf. There were 24 girls selected from across the United States to participate in this year’s Academy. To be chosen to participate, athletes were required to submit an essay and activities list as well as a First Tee chapter letter of recommendation.

Abrams said one of the biggest lessons she learned during the program was to be adaptable. “In life there are many times when obstacles can interfere with your goals. It is important to adapt so you can navigate around the obstacles to reach your destination,” said Abrams. “After all, challenge is just another word for opportunity,” she said.

“My favorite part of the event was teaching residents at a retirement center in Atlanta how to play golf,” Abrams said. “My time spent with them gave me the chance to thank them for being pioneers for future generations,” she said.

The program also motivated Abrams to help girls through her own nonprofit organization. “This opportunity inspired me to teach girls not only the fundamentals of golf, but also the benefits of networking and the importance of internships and scholarships to help further their education,” said Abrams. “As girls take part in these kinds of opportunities, they will be able to tap into their unknown potential,” she said.

Abrams is a starter on Susquehannock’s varsity golf team and a 2016 GameTime PA Golf All-Star.  In 2016, she placed sixth during the District 3 Class 3A championships and finished second at the YAIAA individual championships.