Get to know UTSA women’s golf student-athlete Daniela Abonce, the 2024 American Athletic Conference individual champion, in this Q&A.
Q: Why did you choose UTSA?
Daniela Abonce: “I chose UTSA because of the incredible facilities like our athletic center, RACE, and our home course, TPC San Antonio. The coaches here create an excellent atmosphere and make me feel comfortable, welcomed and supported at all times. Additionally, UTSA offers an excellent business program and high-quality education, which was important to me.”
Q: What do you like most about being a student-athlete at UTSA?
Daniela Abonce: "What I like most about being a student-athlete at UTSA is the sense of community and support. I've made lifelong friends with my teammates, and we push each other to excel on and off the course. The resources available to student-athletes here really help us succeed in all aspects of our lives."
Q: How did you first get involved in playing golf?
Daniela Abonce: "I've been around golf since I was very young thanks to my parents who brought me to the course. I started practicing seriously when I was seven years old, and by the time I was eight, I played in my first tournament. From that moment on, I fell in love with the game and knew it was something I wanted to pursue competitively."
Q: What are you majoring in and what do you hope to do following your athletic career?
Daniela Abonce: "I am majoring in business management because I believe it will provide me with the skills and knowledge to succeed in various aspects of life, including my potential career as a professional golfer. Following my athletic career, I hope to utilize my education and experience to work in the business side of the golf industry or perhaps even start my own business."
Q: What is an interesting fact about you that most people might not know?
Daniela Abonce: “An interesting fact about me that most people might not know is that I was a Girl Scout from the age of six to 10 years old. It was a fun and educational experience for me, teaching me important values like leadership, teamwork and community service, which have shaped who I am today.”
Q: Who have been the most influential people in your life?
Daniela Abonce: "The most influential people in my life have been my parents. They have always taught me to follow my dreams and have shown me that hard work and dedication are essential for achieving success. Their unconditional support has been the driving force behind my journey as an athlete and student."
Q: Who is your sports hero or role model?
Daniela Abonce: “My sports role model is Lorena Ochoa. I grew up admiring her success on the LPGA Tour, and she has been an inspiration to me both on and off the golf course. Lorena's humility, work ethic and pride in her Mexican heritage resonate with me deeply, and I aspire to embody those qualities in my career.”
To make a contribution that supports UTSA's nearly 400 student-athletes, donate to the Roadrunner Athletic Fund today.