UVA Women's Golf

The newest addition to the women’s golf team, Calle Nielson is no stranger to D1 athletics. Calle was not only a member of the UVA team from 2007-2011, but she also stepped in as temporary assistant coach back in 2012 when the team finished in an outstanding fourth place at the National Championship tournament.

At the age of 26, Calle has the potential to be a huge asset for the Hoos. Her young energy breathes life into every practice and workout, and her extensive experience in the sport makes her the perfect set of extra eyes on the course. As a 3-time All-American, Calle has had undeniable success in the game of golf, but how has she done it? How does she hope to help the Hoos to a national title? And most importantly, how in the heck does she maintain those world-renowned legs??

As any avid golfer knows, the best way to get to know someone is to play 18 holes with him or her. So let the round begin!

The Front 9

1. Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Nashville, TN on the east side of the river, about a mile from downtown. I loved growing up in Nashville.

2. Did you have any nicknames in college?

I think I had a different nickname each year but my main nickname was Cal, which is also my father’s name.

3. What’s your go-to snack on the course?

Banana and peanut butter or almond butter!

4. What’s your dream vacation?

Anywhere on a beach!!! I would also love to travel across Europe.

5. Describe your family.

Well I am an only child so some would say what a spoiled brat. I must admit that I am spoiled but not a brat ☺. My parents still live in Nashville and I try to see them as much as possible. They have given me so many opportunities in my life and I can’t thank them enough for being who they are to me. Side note: my name is Calle Ann Nielson- my Dad’s name is Cal and my mothers name is Ann! See where I get my name?!

6. What’s your relationship like with Coach Kim?

Where to begin with this question, Coach Kim is someone that I look up to each and every day. She is such a great role model but most importantly she is such a great friend to me. I think that we work very well together and have fun while doing our jobs, which is very important!

7. Would you rather play in blistering heat or downpour?

I wouldn’t mind playing in either. The downpour could be pretty fun! Just like playing in the rain as a kid.

8. What are your plans for this summer?

I am traveling a lot, which I am excited about; I am recruiting and playing 3 Symetra tour events because I still had status from my finish last year on Symetra. I look forward to representing the University at those events and also while on the road recruiting!

9. Other than golf, what is your favorite hobby?

I love to try new workouts.

Make the turn!

The Back 9

10. If you had a whole day to yourself, what would you do?

I would get up and watch the Today show while having some breakfast and coffee. Then I would get a good workout out and then I would sit by the beach and read a book! Love me some pool and beach time during the summer months.

11. Rumor has it that you’re getting a puppy soon… Tell us about it!

So I told the team that if we won ACC’s I would get a puppy. We not only won ACC’s but we won by quite a few strokes so my name is on a waiting list for a puppy! It looks as though the puppy will be arriving in late August just for the start of the fall season.

12. What’s your favorite thing about Charlottesville?

Well I must say that the food venues are just wonderful. I really like the scenery in Charlottesville. When I was looking for a place to go to school I told myself that’s I wanted.

13. How has the transition from playing to coaching been?

So great! I could not ask for a better head coach and better girls to work with on the team. I love going to work every day and I think that is an important part to consider when looking for a job, that you love going to work!

14. Do you have a motto or mantra you live by?

Attitude is everything!

15. If you could pick another sport to play what would it be and why?

I would love to be tall enough to play basketball. I played all through high school and loved the competitive part of it. It kept me in shape during the winter months in Nashville.

16. Who do you look up to and why?

I look up to my parents a lot because they have given me everything that I have. I also look up to Coach Kim and her husband; they are such wonderful people and love what they do. They also inspire people and I want to have that impact on people when I get older.

17. What are you most proud of?

I am proud to be back at the University of Virginia representing the school that I graduated from and got my degree!

18. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Happy and enjoying what I do everyday!!