News Summary
In Orlando, coach Shania Jones of Lake Nona’s golf team is nurturing young athletes by emphasizing personal growth alongside competitive skills. Her philosophy focuses on making students feel valued, which plays a crucial role in athletic success. Sophomore Alexandra Snyder stands out under her guidance, showcasing incredible talent and mental strength in golf, securing both team and individual state titles. The Lake Nona Golf & Country Club, a prestigious venue, boasts a rich history with notable golfers and hosts important events, making it a hub for aspiring talent and creating a bright future for golf in Orlando.
New Heights for Lake Nona Golf Team Coach Shania Jones
In the beautiful city of Orlando, Lake Nona’s golf coach, Shania Jones, is not just focusing on swinging clubs but on nurturing young athletes. With a heart dedicated to fostering personal growth alongside competitive spirit, the philosophy of this former athlete has a refreshing take—one that emphasizes making students feel loved and valued.
Coach Jones aims to instill not just skills in golf but also character development. Her hands-on approach is evident in how she interacts with her team, making sure each member knows they are cherished. Jones believes that love and support play a crucial role in achieving both athletic success and personal growth.
Spotlight on Sophomore Star Alexandra Snyder
Among the talented golfers under Jones’s guidance is sophomore Alexandra Snyder. Snyder has quickly made a name for herself with an unmatched competitive drive that has astounded everyone around her. During her freshman year, this driven young athlete was a key player in helping Lake Nona clinch the title at the Class 3A Florida High School Athletic Association state championship. Not stopping there, she also secured an individual state title in a thrilling playoff round.
Snyder’s mental strength on the course is noteworthy. When faced with the challenging playoff hole, she simply treated it like any ordinary putt, maintaining a laser-focused mindset, which is an inspiring quality for younger golfers looking up to her.
Golfing Fame Beyond High School
Alexandra Snyder’s achievements are not confined to high school golf. The young star has already marked her territory in the golfing world, triumphing in numerous tournaments organized by the American Junior Golf Association. Additionally, her talents have taken her internationally, representing the Peruvian national golf team, an endeavor she takes immense pride in, as it also lets her honor her family and her heritage.
About the Lake Nona Golf & Country Club
The backdrop for this budding young golfer is the stunning Lake Nona Golf & Country Club. This 600-acre facility features an 18-hole championship course designed by the esteemed Tom Fazio. The course is celebrated not only for its top-notch greens but also for its enthusiastic and supportive membership community. It’s a favorite spot for professional golfers seeking a top-tier training ground.
Renowned golf icons, including Annika Sorenstam, have made Lake Nona their home. Since 2000, Sorenstam has praised the simple, supportive lifestyle, drawing attention to the welcoming atmosphere that appeals to many in the golfing community. Others like Lydia Ko and Leona Maguire also chose Lake Nona for its exceptional practice facilities and warm climate that creates a perfect training environment.
A Hub for Prestigious Golf Events
The Lake Nona Golf & Country Club isn’t just a training ground; it also hosts a variety of prestigious golf events. Since its opening in 1986, the club has been the backdrop for numerous LPGA tournaments. Later this year, it will host the U.S. Amateur Championship final qualifying site, adding to its already impressive resume. The LPGA Tour kicks off its 75th season at Lake Nona with the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament.
Covering over 7,000 yards and set amidst scenic lakes and trees, the course attracts not only golfers but also celebrities from various spheres. Stars like NFL Hall of Famer Charles Woodson, Don Cheadle, and Alfonso Ribeiro have all been part of the excitement at the tournament, further increasing its appeal.
Meanwhile, Orlando continues to develop as a sports hub, with a flurry of events engaging audiences while showcasing the city’s vibrant culture and commitment to athletic excellence. With coaches like Shania Jones and promising talents like Alexandra Snyder, the future looks bright for both Lake Nona Golf and the city as a whole.
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Additional Resources
- My News 13: Alexandra Snyder at Lake Nona Golf
- LPGA: Nelly Korda at Lake Nona
- Orlando Magazine: Lake Nona Golf Country Club
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
- LPGA: A Lim Kim at Lake Nona

Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.