CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa -- Kye Daywitt's journey as a women's golf student-athlete at Coe College is a testament to resilience, balance, and the power of support.
From her early days on the golf course to her senior year, Daywitt has not only honed her skills but also learned valuable life lessons that have shaped her into the person she is today.
For her, being a student-athlete in the American Rivers Conference (A-R-C) has always meant more than just competing in her favorite sport.
It's about holding herself to a higher standard, both on and off the golf course.
"Being a student-athlete has given me a chance to continue doing what I love while completing my higher education," Daywitt said.
"Competing in this conference has pushed me to grow in discipline, time management, and resilience. Overall, I think it has prepared me for my future job. I've learned how to balance my academic workload while still giving my best effort to my team."
The challenges she faced, such as playing through pain and balancing academics with athletics, taught her the importance of perseverance and the support of her team, coaches, and professors.
Bouncing Back from Adversity
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Daywitt's sophomore year was a pivotal moment in her journey.
During a conference championship, she experienced excruciating pain in her back, making it difficult to continue playing. However, quitting was never an option for Daywitt.
She didn't want to let her team down.
"It was the third day, and I felt like I would let my team down," she recalled. "On the 18th hole, everyone was watching, and when I knocked my ball in the hole, everyone clapped and cheered. Now, I know that I was supported by my teammates and the conference itself. This moment built resilience for me to push through because people are going to be there at the end."
The support of her teammates and the conference itself gave her the resilience to push through and finish the tournament.
Balancing Act
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Daywitt also credits her professors for their support in helping her balance academics and athletics.
One particular professor stood out for their flexibility and willingness to work with her during the season.
Instead of making her feel like she had to choose between academics and athletics, they reminded her that she could excel in both.
"That encouragement and support meant a lot and motivated me to stay fully committed to both sides of the student-athlete experience," Daywitt said.
Daywitt's team has also been a constant source of support.
No matter the time of day, her teammates are always there for her, creating a family atmosphere where everyone is valued.
This support has given her the confidence to be herself and push harder every day.
Early Mornings, Late Nights, and Sacrifice
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One of Daywitt's proudest accomplishments is earning all-conference honors while maintaining a strong GPA.
It took countless early mornings, late nights, and sacrifices of comfort and free time to achieve this balance.
"Balancing both academics and athletics isn't easy, but it showed me what I'm capable of when I stay committed," she said.
As she reflects on her time in the A-R-C, Daywitt hopes to leave a legacy of hard work and positivity.
She wants future student-athletes to understand that they don't have to be the loudest voice or the biggest name to make an impact.
"Just show up every day ready to work, ready to encourage others, and ready to put the team first," she said.
Beyond the Wins
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Daywitt's journey as a student-athlete has taught her that success isn't just measured by wins, stats, or awards. It's about growth and relationships.
"The A-R-C has given me the opportunity to play my favorite sport while also earning a meaningful education, and I'm grateful for the lessons I'll carry with me long after graduation," she said.
Kye Daywitt's story is one of resilience, balance, and the power of support.
Through the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned, and the relationships she built, she has become a better athlete, student, and person.
Her journey serves as an inspiration to all student-athletes, reminding them that success is not just about the destination, but the journey itself.
Don't forget to become a fan of the American Rivers Conference on Facebook @AmericanRiversConference, X (Twitter) @AmerRiversConf, and Instagram @AmericanRiversConference.
About the American Rivers Conference
Nationally respected for excellence in NCAA Division III athletics, the American Rivers Conference (A-R-C) has a tradition dating back to its founding in 1922 as the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Association and adopted its current name in 2018 to reflect its strong Iowa roots and growing regional footprint. The A-R-C is a collaborative community that champions the holistic development of student-athletes, uniting member institutions in a shared commitment to academic achievement, athletic distinction, and leadership.
The A-R-C is home to nine full-time member institutions: Buena Vista University, Central College, Coe College, University of Dubuque, Loras College, Luther College, Nebraska Wesleyan University, Simpson College, and Wartburg College. Luther College has announced its departure from the conference, effective at the conclusion of the 2025–26 academic year.
