Big West graduate Salanee Henderson took a chance in trying out for the Golf Channel’s Big Break Atlantis, and looking back she is so glad she did as Henderson is set to compete in the season finale this Monday, July 23 at 6:00 p.m.
Henderson auditioned for the show after two close friends, Mallory Blackwelder and Nicole Smith suggested it would be good for her. Little did she know that being on the show she would learn more about herself, that in turn has improved her game.
“I saw that my friends came back with confidence and I wanted that,” Henderson said. “In return I have seen gradual growth with each episode in myself and in my confidence.”
Henderson played for UC Irvine from 2004-2008, helping the Anteaters to four Big West Tournament titles and collecting All-Big West first team recognition each season. She also was named Big West Golfer of the Year in 2006, where she tied for the most tournament wins in school history that season with six.
All her life she has loved playing golf, and making it a lifestyle has not been as easy as she first thought. She finished college in four years and set out for her goal to be on the LPGA.
“Playing golf at UC Irvine for four years was a learning experience, it was great practice for me in understanding what it was going to take to become a pro golfer.”
Looking back she would advise those still playing in the Big West to take their time, not to rush through school to get done. “There is plenty of time to focus only on golf when done with academics,” Henderson said, “so don’t be too hard on yourself.”
The Big Break Atlantis finalist is grateful for her experience on the show, while having been more nervous with each episode. “Overcoming my own anxiety and letting go has helped me tremendously, I now swing freely and have built confidence along the way.”
Henderson will go head-to-head against Marcela Leon in the season finale Monday. The winner receives a spot in the LPGA Kingsmill Championship, taking place September 6-9, and $50,000 in cash – one of the biggest prizes in the series' 17-season history.
The winner will also receive an endorsement contract from Adams Golf, which includes an additional $10,000 in cash; a $10,000 shopping spree from Dick's Sporting Goods; a $10,000 car-rental credit courtesy of Avis Car Rental, full exempt status and all entry fees waived for a Symetra Tour season and an all-expense paid return trip for two to Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas.