Golf at CIS | Golf lessons here, no "ceiling"
In recent years, a growing interest in sports-related study abroad programs has emerged in China. At CIS, sports education has long been a priority. Sports not only strengthen the body but also nurture emotions, fortify willpower, and foster character—a vital aspect of holistic education.
Since its founding, CIS has integrated sports as one of its three pillars of specialized education, placing it on equal footing with STEAM and the arts to create a well-rounded educational environment. Sports are central to CIS’s mission to cultivate character, encouraging students from primary through high school to engage in, sustain, and love sports. CIS ensures students meet daily exercise requirements and offers diverse, internationally designed sports facilities, enabling students to discover joy in movement and develop a lifelong passion for physical activity.
“There’s Only One
Champion’s Trophy”
Recently, CIS Grade 10 student Katelyn Li claimed the runner-up title in the Girls' A Group at the Volvo National Youth Championship Qualifier. With around six years in her golf journey, her goal has always been clear: there’s only one champion’s trophy. We believe this goal will keep guiding her further along her path.
Reflecting on Katelyn Li’s journey in golf, it becomes evident that her path is a carefully chosen one, forged through challenges and resilience.
Why did you choose golf?
What does it bring to you?
My mom introduced me to a variety of hobbies from a young age, like swimming, ballet, painting, and more. But at the age of 11, I happened to try golf, and it captivated me. For me, the joy of golf lies in the crisp sound of the ball cutting through the air, and the unique landscapes of each course and hole. Over the years, golf has subtly helped me build a healthy body and a resilient spirit, allowing me to balance intense study and training with ease.
Besides the medal, what else did
you gain from the Volvo competition?
On the first day of the competition, I had a disappointing score, which made me feel down, even though I was tied for fifth place with three others. However, my coach and parents didn’t blame me for the result; instead, they helped me analyze my mistakes and plan my strategy for the next day. I calmed down and decided to improve with each remaining round. By the time I sank my final shot on the third day, I found out that I had moved up to second place. I’m grateful I didn’t give up on the first day but instead embraced the process of coming from behind. Every competition deserves to be taken seriously.
How has studying at CIS positively
influenced your golf development?
The school is very close to my training facility at Royal Orchid International Golf Club—only about a five-minute drive after classes. I can also adjust my schedule according to my competition and training needs.
What is your future goal in golf?
There’s only one champion’s trophy.
Aiming for the Highest Goal: This is Katelyn Li’s belief; allowing children to pursue their passions is CIS’s guiding philosophy.
How can we create a platform for children to reach their dreams? At CIS, one must mention the limitless program in golf—a course with no “ceiling.”
Today, GOLF often represents:
· G for Green,
· O for Oxygen,
· L for Light,
· F for Footsteps.
At CIS, we interpret golf with this concept in mind:
Rising Stars Golf Academy, as an integral part of CIS, carries the mission of cultivating future golf stars with outstanding athletic spirit and leadership qualities. Our program not only develops students’ golf skills but also nurtures their overall character, ensuring they stand out as true leaders in the field of golf.
New Star Golf Academy unveiling ceremony
Thanks to our high-quality partnerships, Rising Stars Golf Academy has established a strong collaboration with one of the Greater Bay Area's most prestigious golf academies—Royal Orchid International Golf Academy. Together, we integrate Royal Orchid’s top-tier educational resources and forward-thinking teaching philosophies, with advanced facilities including real grass hitting bays, sand bunker-equipped putting greens, indoor simulators, and more.
Notably, Royal Orchid is located right next to the Junlan Driving Range and an 18-hole golf course, only a 5-minute drive away. This geographical advantage allows students to seamlessly switch between classroom learning and real-world training, making the most of available resources and ensuring continuity and efficiency in their practice.
With blue skies, white clouds, sunlight, grass, woodlands, gentle breezes, and birdsong, students can truly experience the perfect blend of this classic, time-honored sport and a modern, stylish course.
CIS Grade 3 student Milly (right)
is practicing golf with her sister at Royal Orchid.
Our golf program is supported by an exceptional team of coaches: Rising Stars Golf Academy brings together seasoned coaches from Royal Orchid, led by internationally certified coaches, including a US PGA-certified coach and an experienced Korean coach.
They provide comprehensive instruction from beginner to advanced levels, bringing not only extensive teaching experience but also the patience and passion to support students’ growth. Through the professional guidance and training of this dedicated team, students are empowered to continually improve their golf skills and performance, reaching their personal best.
As studying abroad for athletics becomes increasingly popular, golf has emerged as one of the top choices for international school students. CIS is committed to providing enhanced college admissions support with direct pathways to prestigious universities: Rising Stars Golf Academy collaborates with overseas coaches and admissions teams to offer students personalized, one-stop golf education services. We help students plan for domestic and international competitions, prepare them for elite athletic leagues, and enable them to achieve remarkable competition results, creating direct opportunities for entrance into prestigious global universities.
Our admissions services are designed to foster both academic and athletic growth, ensuring that students can pursue their golf aspirations alongside their academic goals.
Rising Stars Golf Academy is the perfect place for students to launch their golf dreams. We look forward to partnering with more families and witnessing students shine on the green.
Discover golf at CIS and reach new heights in life!
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