It's hard to believe that the year is almost over already. What a great year it's been for the CU golf teams. We had a very successful fall season for both the men's and women's programs.
I just got back from Las Vegas for the annual Coaches Convention. It was 2 years ago when I got back from the convention that I started this blog. I haven't been very good at updating it, but after attending the conference each year, it motivates me to do it more often. Social media is the way we connect, and I need to become better at that! One of the speakers this year was Lynn Marriott and Pia Nilsson from Vision54. They spoke about the mental game aspect of golf. They were very good and I really enjoyed the seminar. If you are associated with golf in any way I would recommend reading anyone of their books.
I am currently trying to finalize our spring schedule for both programs. Once I have them finalized, I will post them here along with any other details concerning the spring.
Have a great Holiday Season!
Coach Higgins
This is a blog about the happenings of the Concordia University Men's and Women's Golf Team. We are located in St. Paul, MN and affiliated with the NSIC (Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference) and NCAA Division II athletics.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Friday, September 30, 2011
Big Weekend
It's been awhile since my last update. The season is definately underway and going in full swing. We have a huge weekend this weekend. The men play in the fall portion of the NSIC Championships. It will be at Troy Burne in Hudson WI. The women take off to play in the NSIC/RMAC Crossover in Omaha, NE. Both weekends are huge for each team. Come out and support the programs if you can! We'll post updates throughout the weekend!
Go Golden Bears!
Go Golden Bears!
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Friday, September 9, 2011
season begins
It's hard to believe but our fall season begins this weekend. The men's team will be hosting the NSIC Fall Preview at Troy Burne GC in Hudson, WI on Sunday and Monday. We tee off on sunday starting at 11:56 and there will be a 9:30 shotgun start on Monday. We will have every NSIC team there except one. The course is in fantastic shape and it should be a good test of how we stand in the conference. If you're in the area, stop by and watch some of the best players in DII golf!
The Women's team will be playing in the Drury Invitational in Springfield, MO. This will also be a great test for them. They will tee off on Monday and Tuesday mornings. I'll try to do a post or two to update you all. Maybe we'll even get a video up too! :) Don't forget you can also follow along on facebook or on Twitter @goldenbeargolf.
The Women's team will be playing in the Drury Invitational in Springfield, MO. This will also be a great test for them. They will tee off on Monday and Tuesday mornings. I'll try to do a post or two to update you all. Maybe we'll even get a video up too! :) Don't forget you can also follow along on facebook or on Twitter @goldenbeargolf.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
where did the summer go?
Well, after what seems like the quickest summer ever, the 2011-2012 golf team begins their season tonight with the first official team practice! I'm excited to get things rolling. We have a great mix of experienced returners and talented freshman for both the men's and women's team's.
As always, I will now be updating this blog frequently. I'll be posting video's, results, and we will also have some of the players blog from the road. We appreciate your support and we hope to see you in the next couple months at one of our tournaments. You can check out the men's schedule here. The women's schedule can be found here.
You can also keep up with the CU Golf Program on Facebook and Twitter- @goldenbeargolf.
As always, I will now be updating this blog frequently. I'll be posting video's, results, and we will also have some of the players blog from the road. We appreciate your support and we hope to see you in the next couple months at one of our tournaments. You can check out the men's schedule here. The women's schedule can be found here.
You can also keep up with the CU Golf Program on Facebook and Twitter- @goldenbeargolf.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Wrap up of nationals!
Lowa (Laura) and Moni (Monica) writing to you from the van ride home. This week was the best experience of our collegiate career thus far. It is hard to re-cap and put into words everything that has happened.
After our round on Thursday we went out to eat with all the parents that came to Michigan to watch us. It was a nice opportunity to get the families together for the last tournament. We enjoyed talking about the season and munching on some tasty cheese-filled pretzel bites J We had an easy-going afternoon and night which gave us the ability to relax and study for our finals.
Friday was our third round of the tournament and we had the best weather we’ve golfed in all spring. It was nice to finally see the sun and even though we didn’t play as well as we would have liked, at least we got a nice tan to show for the day. Friday night after our round we went out to eat at the Melting Pot (shh Coach told us not to tell) We were a little worried about having to cook our own food at first, but we learned quickly and made a delicious meal for ourselves. Later that night we gota conference room in the hotel to celebrate Kaytie and Molly’s graduation. It was a nice ceremony with family, cake, decorations, and the new graduates walking through our club arch.
The final morning was a much different story weather wise. It was dreary and drizzly as we got to the course, but thankfully the rain didn’t last past our first few holes. In the end, we didn’t finish as well as we hoped but we got to play a great golf course and see the best of the best in division II golf. As we watched the trophies being handed out at the end, we couldn’t help but think about how great that would be to take one of those home. Playing in this tournament has motivated us even more for the years to come. We’ve had the best week and made memories that will last a lifetime. We will miss our seniors and thank them for all the things they have taught us, for their support and friendship on and off the course. Neither of you will ever be forgotten and have left a lasting mark on the CU golf program.
You can also check out our facebook page to see alot more pictures from the week! Click here.
Love, Peace, and HAPPY SUMMER!!! :)
Thursday, May 12, 2011
practice round and day 1
Hello, this is Laura again reporting to you about our time here at nationals!
Laura
Yesterday we had our practice round at the course. We started the day with a little shopping spree at the NCAA tent picking out some sweet gear to bring home with us. The course is in great shape and will be a fun challenge for the week. On top of the birdies and eagles we hope to make, we ran into a few snakes and turtles on the course. This taught us to keep the ball straight in the fairway instead of the fescue and hazards that line the holes. None the less we enjoyed the day in the sunshine and topped our night off with an ice cream stop at a cute local store called Jersey Junction.
Today was the first round of the National Championship! The atmosphere was electric. It was so cool to be in a place with such a professional atmosphere and so many great golfers. The team went into today with an attitude of confidence. We all wanted to stay relaxed, have fun, and do our best. Molly came out strong and shot a 73. What a STUD! This being her last golf tournament in college she came out and wanted to leave a mark. She will be missed in every way next year. I shot 76, ending my round with a nice birdie. Tay Tay stepped up and fired a 77. Awesome way to start the tournament! Kaytie shot 86 and Monica shot 88. Both are already looking forward to going low tomorrow! The team stands in 8th place after today’s round. Tonight the NCAA sponsored a pizza party and movie. They rented out a theater for us and showed “Water for Elephants.” We had a fun night and got to see a great movie!
Pictures will be posted after our round tomorrow (Thursday).
It’s time for me to check out for the night, another early morning tomorrow. Be sure to follow us with live scoring!
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
C U at Nationals
Laura (Lowa) Petterson here updating everyone on ourfirst day at nationals.
The time from finding out the team made it to the National Golf tournament until now has been a blur and full of excitement! We arrived safe and sound (err not so much sound when Coach is driving) in Michigan yesterday after a 10 hour car ride. On the ride we shared many laughs and enjoyed going through Chicago.
The time from finding out the team made it to the National Golf tournament until now has been a blur and full of excitement! We arrived safe and sound (err not so much sound when Coach is driving) in Michigan yesterday after a 10 hour car ride. On the ride we shared many laughs and enjoyed going through Chicago.
Today has been a BLAST!!! There have been so many great memories in one day, it’s hard to put into words everything that happened. It was a beautiful morning spent walking around downtown Grand Rapids followed by a quality practice session with finally some nice weather. We ate at a great italian restaurant called Mangiamo. It is in a beautiful old mansion that has been restored. To our delight, one of the dining rooms had a chalk board surrounding it. That made the wait for the fabulous dinner fly by.
Tonight we went to a minor league baseball game after a dinner none of us will ever forget. The first inning wasn’t even completed when it started raining, lighting, and hailing. We stuck it out through the rain delay and managed to snag front row seats after that, which we dried off nicely with the bathroom paper towels. The mission of the game was to get a baseball. After unsuccessfully flirting with the bat boy, we managed to get one from the bullpen pitchers. Success J
By the end of the night and after struggling to park our 15 passenger van, coach was definitely ready for a break from all of us girls. It was a fun-filled day and we can’t wait to hit the course for our practice round tomorrow.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Alot has went on this spring...
It seems like I blog more during the off season than I do during the season. This has been a great spring season. I'll write more about the spring later.
Currently I'm sitting in a hotel room in Grand Rapids, MI. Our ladies team has made it to the national tournament!!! I'll write more later tonight, but the practice round starts tomorrow. We will be going out to the course in a little bit do do a little practicing and then off to a minor league baseball game. Look for daily updates by either myself or a team member. You can also follow along on Golfstat starting Wednesday morning.
Currently I'm sitting in a hotel room in Grand Rapids, MI. Our ladies team has made it to the national tournament!!! I'll write more later tonight, but the practice round starts tomorrow. We will be going out to the course in a little bit do do a little practicing and then off to a minor league baseball game. Look for daily updates by either myself or a team member. You can also follow along on Golfstat starting Wednesday morning.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Spring break wrap-up
Lowa (aka-Awol or Laura) reporting from back in Minnesota. This past week has been full of great golf, memories, and lots of sunshine. We had the absolute perfect weather in Palm Springs and had plenty of sunburns and tan lines by the end of the week. Coming back to 30 degrees, snow, and wind was awful.
 |
| 18th hole at the Classic Club |
The last night the team went out for a nice Mexican dinner. Later that night we had our annual fruit eating contest. Coach Higgins was finally dethroned from his three year reign as fruit eating champ and Aron Duren stepped up and took his place (Coach thinks he cheated, but I just think he's a sore loser!) :) Friday the team completed their trip to the west coast by visiting In-N-Out burger before going to the airport. We were all stuffed after the 2x2's and a few 3x3's, too many animal fries, and neopolitan shakes!
 |
| Laura enjoying In-n-Out |
 |
| Left-Aron (fruit eating champ), right-JCAP |
On a side note, did you know that Jacko has a fear of unfinished wood, yet slept the entire week next to a large wooden horse.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Spring Break- Day 5
Update by John Potter
7:15 a.m. is not usually a great time for college kids. But when you're in palm desert in 80 degree sunny weather its tough to want to sleep. We headed to the Classic Club where we played our second practice round in preparation for tomorrow and Thursday's tournament. Who knew that after a few months of hibernation us minnesotans bake to a real nice pink color (ahem, nick jarrett)?
After a long, hot, beautiful day on a perfect golf course, we grabbed subway and headed out to the 'desert oasis premium outlets' shopping mall. All of the girls + Aron Duren looked right at home strolling up and down the sidewalks of the mall. An agonizing 2 hours later we headed back to the house.
During the ride back Molly bet that she'd be thrown in the pool if she was wrong about the title of a song that the girls were arguing about and to no ones surprise, when we got back, in the pool she went. Clothes and all. Only bet on something if you're at least fairly sure of your chances of success.
Tomorrow we play our first competition round of 2011 and most of us can't wait. And to our moms, tomorrow we'll be sure to put on sunscreen.
7:15 a.m. is not usually a great time for college kids. But when you're in palm desert in 80 degree sunny weather its tough to want to sleep. We headed to the Classic Club where we played our second practice round in preparation for tomorrow and Thursday's tournament. Who knew that after a few months of hibernation us minnesotans bake to a real nice pink color (ahem, nick jarrett)?
After a long, hot, beautiful day on a perfect golf course, we grabbed subway and headed out to the 'desert oasis premium outlets' shopping mall. All of the girls + Aron Duren looked right at home strolling up and down the sidewalks of the mall. An agonizing 2 hours later we headed back to the house.
During the ride back Molly bet that she'd be thrown in the pool if she was wrong about the title of a song that the girls were arguing about and to no ones surprise, when we got back, in the pool she went. Clothes and all. Only bet on something if you're at least fairly sure of your chances of success.
 |
 |
| John tee shot on 17 |
 |
| Jeremy putt on 6 |
Monday, March 7, 2011
Spring Break- Day 3 & 4
I just want to write a quick update. After a nice day off on Saturday, the golf teams hit the course again the last couple days. Yesterday (Sunday) we played the Resort Course at Tahquitz Creek. It was a great course with some really nice views.
There was also alot of wildlife on the course to keep up entertained. We saw rabbits, road runners, and coyotes to name a few.
 |
| Coyotes- We named the front one Bertha because it was huge! :) |
Today we played at the Classic Club. That is one of my favorite courses ever. The course is VERY challenging. I saw a couple bunkers today that seemed as deep as the Grand Canyon! :) The views are beautiful, the course it in awesome shape, and the staff is really friendly! The conditions were pretty tough. The winds were blowing up to 40-50 mph and the greens were really fast.
 |
| Team on the driving range at Classic Club |
 |
| Sophmore Captain Laura Petterson's ball before it went AWOL in the bunker |
Everyone is getting the rust off their game and starting to play well. Tomorrow is our practice round. It will be exciting to see how the team has come out of the winter. I'll update keep updating the blog to let you know how we do.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Spring Break 2011- Day 2
Our guest blogger for the day is John Potter. Here are his writings about day 2 in California!
Saturday
After a long and exhausting afternoon (maybe more like an hour), we hit the road and headed out to Rodeo drive. The highlight of the day for the men was driving past designer- Biagi, 1.6 million dollar Bugatti Veyron sports car. 1 of 600. It's ridiculous how much money there is down here.
After more than enough site-seeing we headed home. Everyone found a second wind after eating tacos and we spent the rest of the night lounging around the house or sitting in the pool/hot tub getting ready for our first rounds of golf this year.
Life is SO tough. :)
Saturday
 |
| With the blurred Hollywood sign in the background! |
After an early morning the day prior, a laid-back morning was wonderful. Jacko's crazy good egg bake charged our batteries and got us all excited about the menu for the rest of the trip. Today was our one day this week that we have off of golf. We decided as a team that we all wanted to see the sights of L.A. After breakfast we hopped in the vans and headed to LA. Most of our time in L.A. was spent people watching on Hollywood boulevard.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Day 1-Spring break
Here is the post by Laura Petterson
Friday
The CU golf team met at the St.Paul airport at 3:30 a.m this morning and ended the day in sunny Palm Springs, California. Upon arriving in Ontario, CA (California not Canada) we spent a good half hour dodging traffic while trying to find a gas station, in the process we learned that not all stations accept credit cards. After FINALLY managing to get gas we made it to the house we are staying in. The place is gorgeous with a pool and hot tub that the team has already enjoyed. The women’s team is living in their own guesthouse. Five girls sharing one large room is bound to provide many laughs and late night chats.
We spent the afternoon on the range shanking, I mean shaking off the rust from being indoors all winter, and between shots taking in the breathtaking view of the palm trees and mountains. I can speak for the team in saying it felt so good to be back outside again and we can’t wait to compete in just a few days!
Friday
The CU golf team met at the St.Paul airport at 3:30 a.m this morning and ended the day in sunny Palm Springs, California. Upon arriving in Ontario, CA (California not Canada) we spent a good half hour dodging traffic while trying to find a gas station, in the process we learned that not all stations accept credit cards. After FINALLY managing to get gas we made it to the house we are staying in. The place is gorgeous with a pool and hot tub that the team has already enjoyed. The women’s team is living in their own guesthouse. Five girls sharing one large room is bound to provide many laughs and late night chats.
We spent the afternoon on the range shanking, I mean shaking off the rust from being indoors all winter, and between shots taking in the breathtaking view of the palm trees and mountains. I can speak for the team in saying it felt so good to be back outside again and we can’t wait to compete in just a few days!
Today has been very long and full. Airports, too many trips to Walmart, late dinner, and night by the pool it is time for me to call it a night and hit the sack. The plan for tomorrow is to head into LA and enjoy a day of sight seeing and walking on the beach with some golf in the afternoon.
Spring Break- Day 1
Well we finally arrived in Palm Springs today. Sophmore women's captain Laura Petterson will be posting the first blog a little later or tomorrow morning. Right now she, along with most of the other athletes, are enjoying the hot tub and pool that overlooks the 18th hole of the Wieskopf Course at PGA West! I can tell you that she probabably will post something that involves trying to find a gas station and visiting walmart and sam's club way too many times for one day!
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Spring Break
Just wanted to write a quick post to update you all on the exciting things that will be happening starting tomorrow. Tomorrow at this time, members of the women's and men's golf team will be in the air on our way to Palm Springs, CA! We are there for a week over our spring break. We are hosting a tournament at The Classic Club. This is the course that the men's team had their regional at last spring. It is a fantastic track that was host to the PGA Bob Hope Classic from 2006-2008. I, or someone from the team, will try to update the blog with daily happenings. We'll also try to post a few pictures and occasional video too! If it's anything like last year, I'm sure we'll have our share of events to blog about!
Coach Higgins
Coach Higgins
Monday, February 28, 2011
Get to know them- Kaytie Spangler
1. Why did you choose to come to Concordia University?
The golf program had what I was looking for: dedicated coaches, good work ethic, a family-like atmosphere, and a focus on faith.
2. What is your most memorable moment as a golfer here at CU?
When we won the NSIC Conference Championship by one stroke (over four rounds) during my sophomore year. I wasn’t playing great so I actually did more damage control than anything. But when it came down to it, every stroke counted: literally. Counting up the scores at the end of the tournament was really exciting.
3. Who is your mentor in the sport of golf?
It used to be John Kendall, now it’s Craig Waryan and Sheryl Maize.
4. Name a valuable lesson that you have learned from being a student-athlete?
Four years has taught me that I need to be myself on and off the course. The second I try to fit into someone else’s shoes, I start wondering why things aren’t working. Be yourself! It’s God’s gift to you!
5. What is your favorite golf course to play on and why?
TPC Sawgrass. Since I worked at the PGA Tour for a summer, it has sentimental meaning to me and I respect the course because of its tradition and fame.
6. What skill has been the most valuable to you both on the golf course and as a student?
“Never, never, never give up.” When you quit, you will fail 100% of the time. I would rather keep trying, fail 99% of the time, and know I gave it everything I had. No one can hang their head if they’ve done everything they can with all they have.
7. What skill have you improved on the most since the beginning of your athletic career here at Concordia University-St. Paul?
My attitude and mental toughness. This is something I’ve put a lot of focus on for the last three years and found, with hard work and perseverance, the high road.
8. What are your plans after you graduate?
I’m not prepared to answer this question yet. I’m looking for a job.
9. Aside from golfing, what are some of your other hobbies?
Running, basketball, sports in general, movies, music.
10. What do you like most about the sport of golf?
Personally I think golf is only sport that presents the successes and challenges of life in a real manner. You get good breaks, you get bad breaks. One moment you’re the best player on the course, the next you wonder if you forgot half of your clubs at home. I figure if I can get a good grasp on golf, life should be pretty easy.
11. Who would be in your “dream” foursome?
Gary Player, Camilo Villegas, and Kenny Perry because of their positive attitudes and hopeful outlooks on golf and life.
12. Who is the funniest Person on the Team and why:
Amanda Bearson (even though she graduated). She should really be doing stand-up comedy instead of going to law school. Not only does she have the best one-liners, but she remembers every stupid thing that anyone on the team says and repeats it at a later date.
13. Do you have any pre-match rituals?
Well I usually forget something at the hotel or at home. Other than that, I always pray.
14. What are some of your favorite artists on your IPOD?
Taylor Swift, Jeremy Camp, Corey Crowder, the Goo Goo Dolls, the Fray.
The golf program had what I was looking for: dedicated coaches, good work ethic, a family-like atmosphere, and a focus on faith.
2. What is your most memorable moment as a golfer here at CU?
When we won the NSIC Conference Championship by one stroke (over four rounds) during my sophomore year. I wasn’t playing great so I actually did more damage control than anything. But when it came down to it, every stroke counted: literally. Counting up the scores at the end of the tournament was really exciting.
3. Who is your mentor in the sport of golf?
It used to be John Kendall, now it’s Craig Waryan and Sheryl Maize.
4. Name a valuable lesson that you have learned from being a student-athlete?
Four years has taught me that I need to be myself on and off the course. The second I try to fit into someone else’s shoes, I start wondering why things aren’t working. Be yourself! It’s God’s gift to you!
5. What is your favorite golf course to play on and why?
TPC Sawgrass. Since I worked at the PGA Tour for a summer, it has sentimental meaning to me and I respect the course because of its tradition and fame.
6. What skill has been the most valuable to you both on the golf course and as a student?
“Never, never, never give up.” When you quit, you will fail 100% of the time. I would rather keep trying, fail 99% of the time, and know I gave it everything I had. No one can hang their head if they’ve done everything they can with all they have.
7. What skill have you improved on the most since the beginning of your athletic career here at Concordia University-St. Paul?
My attitude and mental toughness. This is something I’ve put a lot of focus on for the last three years and found, with hard work and perseverance, the high road.
8. What are your plans after you graduate?
I’m not prepared to answer this question yet. I’m looking for a job.
9. Aside from golfing, what are some of your other hobbies?
Running, basketball, sports in general, movies, music.
10. What do you like most about the sport of golf?
Personally I think golf is only sport that presents the successes and challenges of life in a real manner. You get good breaks, you get bad breaks. One moment you’re the best player on the course, the next you wonder if you forgot half of your clubs at home. I figure if I can get a good grasp on golf, life should be pretty easy.
11. Who would be in your “dream” foursome?
Gary Player, Camilo Villegas, and Kenny Perry because of their positive attitudes and hopeful outlooks on golf and life.
12. Who is the funniest Person on the Team and why:
Amanda Bearson (even though she graduated). She should really be doing stand-up comedy instead of going to law school. Not only does she have the best one-liners, but she remembers every stupid thing that anyone on the team says and repeats it at a later date.
13. Do you have any pre-match rituals?
Well I usually forget something at the hotel or at home. Other than that, I always pray.
14. What are some of your favorite artists on your IPOD?
Taylor Swift, Jeremy Camp, Corey Crowder, the Goo Goo Dolls, the Fray.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Get to know them- Nick Jarrett
1. Why did you choose to come to Concordia University?
I chose Concordia University because the coaching staff, the potential of the team, and the location of the school. By being a private Division II the middle of the Twin Cities the school can offer its students unique opportunities. The program has an extremely strong coaching staff and it has shown in the growth of both programs in the last few years.
2. What is your most memorable moment as a golfer here at CU?
My most memorable moment so far was going to the Regional tournament in California last year. We played against some of the best teams in the country on course that has hosted PGA tournaments. It showed us our team can compete and motivated us to work even harder this year.
3. Who is your mentor in the sport of golf?
Growing up I never had a mentor in golf but while at Concordia I have learned more about golf than I ever thought I’d know from our assistant coach Craig Waryan. He has more knowledge on every aspect of the game than anyone else I know. I always love asking him as many questions as I can and learning from him.
4. Name a valuable lesson that you have learned from being a student-athlete?
A valuable lesson I have learned from being a student-athlete is learning how to work with a variety of people to accomplish a common goal. Our team has a variety of individual personalities but we work together in order for our team to compete at the level we do.
5. What is your favorite golf course to play on and why?
My favorite golf course I have played has to be The Classic Club in Palm Desert, CA. We played this course last spring at the Regional Tournament and it required one to a variety of shots. It required a player to be creative but did not leave a lot of room for any miss-hit shots. It was also the best condition of any course I have ever played. I enjoyed the challenge and look forward to going back this year for our spring break trip.
6. What skill has been the most valuable to you both on the golf course and as a student?
The skill that has been the most valuable to me both on the golf course and as a student is having the ability to stay calm and collected in difficult situations. It has allowed me to stay calm and score well on the course even when I am having difficulties with my game. As a student-athlete I have been faced with many difficult weeks balancing schoolwork and golf but this skill has helped me succeed both on and off the course.
7. What skill have you improved on the most since the beginning of your athletic career here at Concordia University-St. Paul?
Since arriving at Concordia I have improved my consistency on the course. Each year I have become more consistent and I have felt I have learned more about my game and how to improve it each year.
8. What are your plans after you graduate?
After I graduate this spring I am planning on pursuing a career in coaching college golf. I have had a passion for coaching and want to continue it after college. I would like to find an assistant coaching job around the Twin Cities for next year. I also want to continue to play competitive golf and learn as much as I can about the game of golf.
9. Aside from golfing, what are some of your other hobbies?
When I am not golfing I enjoy playing a variety of other sports. I have always played many sports throughout my life and when I am not on the course I still enjoy playing other sports such as hockey and racquetball In the summer I like to spend time at my cabin.
10. What do you like most about the sport of golf?
What I like the most about golf is the mental side to the game. A player can have all the physical ability but without the mental ability they will not be able to compete. Golf requires one to think throughout an entire tournament and not only be the best player physically but mentally as well.
11. Who would be in your “dream” foursome?
The three others in my dream foursome would be Retief Goosen, Jack Nicklaus, and Tiger Woods. Each of these players has had success at the highest level and they each play golf in a different way.
12. Who is the funniest Person on the Team and why:
The funniest person on the team has to be Kyle Lewis. While Kyle does not always say the most on the team, he has the ability to make every person on the team laugh. Some of our best trips have been with him providing the musical entertainment during the van rides.
13. Do you have any pre-match rituals?
Before a match all I do is try to relax and loosen up. I make sure I feel confident in my game and am confident in the game plan I have for the day. When I step up on the first tee I want to know exactly how I am going to play the course that day and know I am going to play well.
14. What are some of your favorite artists on your IPOD?
Some of my favorite artists on my iPod are Switchfoot, Matthew West, and 30 Second to Mars.
I chose Concordia University because the coaching staff, the potential of the team, and the location of the school. By being a private Division II the middle of the Twin Cities the school can offer its students unique opportunities. The program has an extremely strong coaching staff and it has shown in the growth of both programs in the last few years.
2. What is your most memorable moment as a golfer here at CU?
My most memorable moment so far was going to the Regional tournament in California last year. We played against some of the best teams in the country on course that has hosted PGA tournaments. It showed us our team can compete and motivated us to work even harder this year.
3. Who is your mentor in the sport of golf?
Growing up I never had a mentor in golf but while at Concordia I have learned more about golf than I ever thought I’d know from our assistant coach Craig Waryan. He has more knowledge on every aspect of the game than anyone else I know. I always love asking him as many questions as I can and learning from him.
4. Name a valuable lesson that you have learned from being a student-athlete?
A valuable lesson I have learned from being a student-athlete is learning how to work with a variety of people to accomplish a common goal. Our team has a variety of individual personalities but we work together in order for our team to compete at the level we do.
5. What is your favorite golf course to play on and why?
My favorite golf course I have played has to be The Classic Club in Palm Desert, CA. We played this course last spring at the Regional Tournament and it required one to a variety of shots. It required a player to be creative but did not leave a lot of room for any miss-hit shots. It was also the best condition of any course I have ever played. I enjoyed the challenge and look forward to going back this year for our spring break trip.
6. What skill has been the most valuable to you both on the golf course and as a student?
The skill that has been the most valuable to me both on the golf course and as a student is having the ability to stay calm and collected in difficult situations. It has allowed me to stay calm and score well on the course even when I am having difficulties with my game. As a student-athlete I have been faced with many difficult weeks balancing schoolwork and golf but this skill has helped me succeed both on and off the course.
7. What skill have you improved on the most since the beginning of your athletic career here at Concordia University-St. Paul?
Since arriving at Concordia I have improved my consistency on the course. Each year I have become more consistent and I have felt I have learned more about my game and how to improve it each year.
8. What are your plans after you graduate?
After I graduate this spring I am planning on pursuing a career in coaching college golf. I have had a passion for coaching and want to continue it after college. I would like to find an assistant coaching job around the Twin Cities for next year. I also want to continue to play competitive golf and learn as much as I can about the game of golf.
9. Aside from golfing, what are some of your other hobbies?
When I am not golfing I enjoy playing a variety of other sports. I have always played many sports throughout my life and when I am not on the course I still enjoy playing other sports such as hockey and racquetball In the summer I like to spend time at my cabin.
10. What do you like most about the sport of golf?
What I like the most about golf is the mental side to the game. A player can have all the physical ability but without the mental ability they will not be able to compete. Golf requires one to think throughout an entire tournament and not only be the best player physically but mentally as well.
11. Who would be in your “dream” foursome?
The three others in my dream foursome would be Retief Goosen, Jack Nicklaus, and Tiger Woods. Each of these players has had success at the highest level and they each play golf in a different way.
12. Who is the funniest Person on the Team and why:
The funniest person on the team has to be Kyle Lewis. While Kyle does not always say the most on the team, he has the ability to make every person on the team laugh. Some of our best trips have been with him providing the musical entertainment during the van rides.
13. Do you have any pre-match rituals?
Before a match all I do is try to relax and loosen up. I make sure I feel confident in my game and am confident in the game plan I have for the day. When I step up on the first tee I want to know exactly how I am going to play the course that day and know I am going to play well.
14. What are some of your favorite artists on your IPOD?
Some of my favorite artists on my iPod are Switchfoot, Matthew West, and 30 Second to Mars.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Spring Season is underway!
Well it's hard to believe, especially with 3-6 inches of snow today, that the spring season is underway. We had our first workout/practice yesterday afternoon at Lifetime Fitness in St. Louis Park. This is our third year at lifetime. We are very thankful of Lifetime, PGA Pro Matt Just and his staff, for their support of the CU Golf Program. Yesterday we had a unique practice. We played 6-7 games of dodgeball and then played a 9 hole scramble on Torrey Pines GC. I haven't played dodgeball since high school. It also is cool to see the teams competitiveness that comes out even on the dodgeball courts! The scramble was fun. It was good to see the team swinging the golf clubs again. I've posted some pictures of the scramble below.
The other thing we will be doing this spring for practice is what I call a classroom practice. We are going through Tim Elmore's series on leadership called Habitudes. If you never have heard of this you can find out more information here. Habitudes are images that form leadership habits and attitudes. I heard Dr. Elmore speak last month at our coaches convention and he was really good. I also would guess that 60-70% of the over 100 DI, DII and DII golf coaches there will be going through this with their golf teams.
I think that's it for now. I'll be posting another "get to know them" feature later this week. Think summer! :)We only have 4 1/2 weeks before we leave for our spring break trip. That time will go by fast.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Get to know them- Molly Noser
This is the first of our new "get to know them" feature. Current CU golfers responded back to some questions about themselves and the team. Hopefully you'll "get to know them" a little better. Our first player we will be featuring is Senior Captian Molly Noser
1. Why did you choose to come to Concordia University?
I chose Concordia because I was really impressed with the golf program. I felt like it was a place that I could improve as an individual while being part of a great team. I also like the small Christian community in the middle of a big city.
2. What is your most memorable moment as a golfer here at CU?
My most memorable moments include competing at the National Championship in Findlay, Ohio my sophomore year. It was so much fun competing with the best teams in the nation.
3. Who is your mentor in the sport of golf?
Growing up my mentor was my Dad. He was the one who always took me to the course and encouraged and guided me to get better.
4. Name a valuable lesson that you have learned from being a student-athlete?
The most important lesson I have learned from being a student-athlete is time management. I have learned to balance my busy classes while still being able to focus on golf. This will be a valuable skill to have as I go on with graduate school.
5. What is your favorite golf course to play on and why?
I have two favorite courses. My favorite course to compete on is the Jewel in Lake City. It is a very pretty course that is fun for competition. My other favorite course is the Pines in Brainerd. This is because I always played it during my family vacation at the lake.
6. What skill has been the most valuable to you both on the golf course and as a student?
The skill that has been the most valuable to me on the golf course and as a student is determination. If I set my mind to something, I am willing to work as hard as I need to get it accomplished. This helps me practice my golf game and also study hard for my classes.
7. What skill have you improved on the most since the beginning of your athletic career here at Concordia University-St. Paul?
The skill that I have improved on the most since I first game to Concordia trusting and being confident in myself. My freshman year, I had a hard time being confident with my game. Ever since I have worked on believing in myself that I can carry out a certain shot.
8. What are your plans after you graduate?
I plan to attend dental school at the University of Iowa in Iowa City.
9. Aside from golfing, what are some of your other hobbies?
I love to do anything outside. I love water skiing, downhill skiing, hiking, canoeing, and fishing. I like to play tennis and racquetball. I also enjoy reading.
10. What do you like most about the sport of golf?
I love the fact that it is played outside. I love walking down the fairway on a nice day. I also like the fact that it requires a lot of thinking and problem solving. Also, I love the competition.
11. Who would be in your “dream” foursome?
George Bush, Zach Johnson, and Paula Creamer
12. Who is the funniest Person on the Team and why:
The funniest person on the team is Laura. She’s always upbeat and finding a way to get the team laughing.
13. Do you have any pre-match rituals?
My pre-match rituals include wearing a ribbon in my hair and listening to Taylor Swift.
14. What are some of your favorite artists on your IPOD?
Taylor Swift, Rascal Flatts, Kenney Chesney, Keith Urban, The Band Perry
1. Why did you choose to come to Concordia University?
I chose Concordia because I was really impressed with the golf program. I felt like it was a place that I could improve as an individual while being part of a great team. I also like the small Christian community in the middle of a big city.
2. What is your most memorable moment as a golfer here at CU?
My most memorable moments include competing at the National Championship in Findlay, Ohio my sophomore year. It was so much fun competing with the best teams in the nation.
3. Who is your mentor in the sport of golf?
Growing up my mentor was my Dad. He was the one who always took me to the course and encouraged and guided me to get better.
4. Name a valuable lesson that you have learned from being a student-athlete?
The most important lesson I have learned from being a student-athlete is time management. I have learned to balance my busy classes while still being able to focus on golf. This will be a valuable skill to have as I go on with graduate school.
5. What is your favorite golf course to play on and why?
I have two favorite courses. My favorite course to compete on is the Jewel in Lake City. It is a very pretty course that is fun for competition. My other favorite course is the Pines in Brainerd. This is because I always played it during my family vacation at the lake.
6. What skill has been the most valuable to you both on the golf course and as a student?
The skill that has been the most valuable to me on the golf course and as a student is determination. If I set my mind to something, I am willing to work as hard as I need to get it accomplished. This helps me practice my golf game and also study hard for my classes.
7. What skill have you improved on the most since the beginning of your athletic career here at Concordia University-St. Paul?
The skill that I have improved on the most since I first game to Concordia trusting and being confident in myself. My freshman year, I had a hard time being confident with my game. Ever since I have worked on believing in myself that I can carry out a certain shot.
8. What are your plans after you graduate?
I plan to attend dental school at the University of Iowa in Iowa City.
9. Aside from golfing, what are some of your other hobbies?
I love to do anything outside. I love water skiing, downhill skiing, hiking, canoeing, and fishing. I like to play tennis and racquetball. I also enjoy reading.
10. What do you like most about the sport of golf?
I love the fact that it is played outside. I love walking down the fairway on a nice day. I also like the fact that it requires a lot of thinking and problem solving. Also, I love the competition.
11. Who would be in your “dream” foursome?
George Bush, Zach Johnson, and Paula Creamer
12. Who is the funniest Person on the Team and why:
The funniest person on the team is Laura. She’s always upbeat and finding a way to get the team laughing.
13. Do you have any pre-match rituals?
My pre-match rituals include wearing a ribbon in my hair and listening to Taylor Swift.
14. What are some of your favorite artists on your IPOD?
Taylor Swift, Rascal Flatts, Kenney Chesney, Keith Urban, The Band Perry
Friday, January 7, 2011
finally some pictures
Here are some pictures of the trip that Kyle, John and Nick took last month.
 |
| John, Kyle, Coach McGraw, Nick |
 |
| Group in front of Ben Crane's House |
 |
| Group inside of Ben Crane's home |
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)