Rich named to all-star team

While Ali Rich was shooting for state, she met another goal.

Ali Rich

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Rich was named to the Cincinnati Enquirer’s Northern Kentucky all-star team, which recognizes top golfers across the region.

“It’s a big accomplishment I think,” Rich said. “It was a personal goal. I was excited. I felt like I had accomplished something.”

Rich credits the way she finished in the region tournament (tying for third and earning a spot in the state tournament after a playoff) and how well she competed at state for why she was selected as one of Northern Kentucky’s top golfers. She’s already looking forward to next year and using this honor as motivation to stay on the top of her game.

“It motivates me to work hard to maintain that motivation,” Rich said. “I’m going to practice as much as I can and go to the gym to stay in shape.”

Rich made it to state as an individual in 2006 and went back this year after missing the cut last year.

“It made it even more special to go back after not making it last year. Making it from a playoff made it more exciting because it made me work even more for it,” she said.

Al Rich, Ali’s father and coach, was doubly excited to see his daughter earn recognition.

“We were very excited and thought it was quite an honor to make the team,” Al Rich said. “She works hard and I think that shows she has the hardwork and dedication to make a team like this. She deserves it after making it to state. Her scores throughout the year show she’s deserving. She also performed well at the region tournament and showed her work ethic.

“As a dad, I’m very proud,” he said. “Anytime you see one of your children do well, it adds to the feeling. She works hard for everything and it makes me feel good to see her achieve one of her goals. I think it’s another building block for her. It might put pressure on her to continue to improve. This is another step in the improvement in her game. We’re really proud of her. She’s still practicing and hitting balls to keep her swing going throughout the winter.”

For now, Ali will work this offseason, preparing for her next shot at state. But she is glad to know that her name is out there as one of the best golfers that Northern Kentucky has.

“It lets people know that I’m here to compete,” she said.