What does it mean to you to be coaching a team for which you used to play?
It's extremely rewarding to be coaching the team which I played for five years ago. I loved the program and the university so much that I wanted to get back into it as quickly as I could.
What are your goals for the team this season?
I feel like we have two main goals this spring: win our OAC Championship and place well at the NCAA Championships. These goals are always at the forefront of our minds ... winning our conference championship is ... rewarding. Winning the conference earns a berth to nationals.
How do you plan to achieve those goals?
We have been working hard in the gym this offseason and have had organized practices, targeting all facets of the game. With the weather the way it's been, we have been able to sneak out on the courses as much as possible. In years past, they weren't able due to the conditions. We are trying to take advantage of everything that comes our way.
What are the biggest strengths of this team?
I feel one of our biggest strengths is their willingness to help one another succeed. They are a strong group of guys who hang out with each other all of the time. It's our own golfing fraternity.
What are the biggest weaknesses?
One of the biggest weaknesses that sometimes plague our guys is their feeling that they are a part of something special. The last two years at the NCAA Championship, they were leading after two rounds. Even though we didn't close the deal, we definitely have the games to succeed. There is sometimes a feeling that on a national level, they can't compete at the highest level. But we've begun to break down those walls. t&c;