Congrats!!

Congrats! You made it here. You’re probably really excited about what’s ahead, but also a little nervous. Don’t worry, that’s completely normal and should be expected to some degree. College is a new chapter for all. While it can seem pretty nerve-racking at first (somewhat like the first drive at a tournament), you’ll probably find it to be a great part of life.

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Ease the transition

Below are some recommendations we’ve gathered over the years to help make the transition to both college and college golf smoother.

• Understand your schedule. College and playing college sports come down to how each day looks. Many find it challenging at first to make the transition, but preseason and time separating school and golf can help. When are classes, meals, training, studying, travel needs, etc.
• Use a calendar (phone or book). If you’re not used to using a calendar, this may be your chance to do so. Generally, just having a week’s plan in place can help make you feel more in control and capable. Coaches sometimes require this because the effects of a disorganized life can extend to your golf game.
• Meet professors early and introduce yourself. For all students, even non-athletes, we recommend this, as you can start to form bonds early. From a professor’s standpoint, it’s also good to know that you may be away from class at a tournament from time to time. If they know you, they’re more willing to help you make it all happen.
• Build strength and conditioning. College golf is usually more intense both physically and mentally. If you keep to a good training regimen before school and the season starts, it will help you make that transition more seamlessly.
• Track game progress. This is helpful for coaches once you arrive on campus. If you come with notes on what you need to improve and/or are working on, they can more easily jump in and assist you. Don’t be shy about admitting what you need help with. They are on your team now. Proactivity will be your friend!
• Sleep, eat, recover. You’re going to get a lot about this from your coaches and trainers, and hopefully you already have some good habits in place, yet college life is different than home and can come with its own set of challenges. If ever you feel things are “off”, check in on how your sleep, nutrition, and recovery are going.
• Consistency over perfection. You know this, but it’s worth reiterating that golf is more about consistency than perfection. GIR and FIR are nice metrics, but even the pros don’t make every fairway or land every green in regulation. You may have been the top player in your high school, but now you are on a better team. Give yourself space to adjust. It’s a different game, but you’ll find it rather similar soon enough.
• Realistic goals. In your first year, many things will come as a shock. That’s normal. Many great players have found their first year to be the one they struggle with the most (even Scottie wasn’t great his freshman year). Manage what you can, and don’t shoot for the moon. We’ve found this helps you enjoy the process and handle it with more ease than being strict about shooting certain scores or finishing certain places.
• Have fun! So many of these tips we’ve seen players struggle with over the years. Helping them has been a great joy in our work and personal lives. There is so much you have already accomplished, and so much more you will too. Remember why you love this game, what it’s taught you about life and living well, and the experiences you’ve already had playing it. Enjoying the ups and handling the downs are all part of the game.

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Excited about what's ahead!

Again, congrats on making it here. If you made it this far in preparation, we are excited for your road ahead. Please reach out with any questions. If you find yourself buried in questions or unsure where to go, we hold sessions for players and their families. Usually, one meeting is all they need to get going.

We wish you only the best!