Freshman Sportlight: Golf (Ryan Clark)

By Brady Busha

Where are you from? What drew you to Lawrence?

I am from Windom, Minn. My brother went here last year. He said it was a great school. I had a great time on my three visits. In addition, the golf coach called me and said that if I wanted to compete, I’d have an opportunity to do that. I wasn’t going to pass up a great opportunity.

 

How did you first get into golf? What do you like most about it?

I started my freshman year of high school. My brother played, so I gave it a shot. I fell in love with the sport. I like how challenging it is. It’s very mentally demanding, especially when you’re on a bad day.

 

What do you hope to bring to the team this year?

Low scores and, maybe, if it’s possible, a conference championship.

 

What’s one thing you’re really looking forward to this year?

All of the golf courses I get to play at, all the people I’ll get to meet from other colleges, this college. I’m really looking forward to the experience of being a college athlete.

 

What has your athletic career here at Lawrence taught you about being academically successful as well?

Lawrence is a really academically demanding school. Regardless of if you’re in a sport or not, it seems like everybody here takes their academics more seriously. I’m lucky enough to be able to go to a great school and be able to golf, too, so I’m really grateful the school gave me this opportunity.

 

How have your teammates helped you with your first year as a collegiate athlete?

They’ve helped me a lot. They’ve showed me how to fix my game, get homework done during tournaments, making sure I stay on top of everything, really helping to make the whole experience fun.

 

If you could have a meal with any person, who would it be? Why?

Oh, man. I’d have to say Arnold Palmer. He’s such a great golfer, and I’d like to know more about him. Plus, he seems like a funny guy.