What began as a family introduction to golf at Foothills Golf Course has taken Ellie Kilohana Echeverria across the United States—and this year, to a third-place finish in Ireland.
A fourth grader at St. Albans Country Day School and member of the Class of 2035, Ellie started playing at six years old after her grandmother, Terry, introduced Ellie and her father to the game. Her ability to watch and replicate movements helped her pick up the swing, but the opportunity to keep improving is what has held her interest.
With support from her coaches, Ellie has worked on her swing fundamentals, putting and course management. She enjoys the challenge of bringing those pieces together, knowing that even a small improvement can give her something new to build on.
That work has produced a successful 2026 season. Ellie earned a top-five finish at the AZ Desert Shootout at Wigwam, became the Truckee Tahoe Junior Tour champion and finished in the top three during the Central Valley Tour’s spring season. She has also recorded a personal-best score of 36.
Her first international tournament brought another highlight: third place at the Irish Open at Mount Wolseley. The trip offered more than competition. With Irish ancestry in her family, Ellie had the opportunity to connect with her roots while experiencing another country and learning about its culture.
For Ellie, motivation often comes from seeing practice turn into progress. Improving a shot, applying a coach’s advice or getting stronger through Dynamic Training in Rocklin gives her evidence that her effort matters. Encouragement from fellow golfers at the driving range also makes an impression. Hearing people compliment her swing and encourage her to keep playing strengthens her confidence.
She finds that same support among the talented junior girl golfers in her area. Practice rounds and tournaments give Ellie opportunities to enjoy those friendships while challenging herself alongside players who push her to improve.
Looking ahead, Ellie wants to develop both the physical and mental sides of her game. She hopes to visit more courses, take on difficult layouts and eventually attend a high school that supports her golf aspirations. Her long-term goal is to earn a college golf scholarship.
Her ambitions extend beyond the course. Ellie is nearing a black belt in taekwondo, hopes to join a cross-country team after completing her first 5K this year and plans to play flag football this winter.
Away from sports, she enjoys drawing, building Legos and beating her dad in video games. Golf has already opened the door to new places and friendships, and Ellie is eager to see where continued improvement takes her next.
