I vividly remember standing on the 18th green during my freshman year at Friends University.

I had a chance to win the conference title as a Freshman and needed a birdie on the final hole to take home the trophy. My coach came up to me and said something that has stuck with me throughout my entire athletic career.

He said, "Golf doesn't define you as a person. Your identity is in Christ."

That statement hit me hard.

It reminded me that my worth as a person isn't determined by my performance on the golf course. It's about so much more than that. It's about my faith, my character, and how I treat others.

I ended up sinking that birdie putt and winning the conference championship, but more importantly, I walked away from that experience with a valuable lesson.

I realized that sports are just a part of who I am, not the entirety of my identity.

That lesson has guided me throughout my time at Friends University and has shaped me into the athlete and person I am today.

A Path to Friends University

Growing up in Arkansas City, Kansas, I was involved in multiple sports and activities. I come from an athletic family, and sports were always a big part of my life. In high school, I made the decision to focus on golf, which ultimately led me to Friends University.

The recruiting process during the pandemic was challenging, but there was something about Friends University that stood out to me.

It was the email I received from Coach Galyon.

He emphasized the importance of competition, but he also made it clear that the number one priority was our relationship with Jesus.

That resonated with me on a deep level. Faith has always been a significant part of my life, and I was searching for a school that shared those values. Even though the golf program at Friends was in its early stages, I saw the potential for growth and knew it was something I wanted to be a part of.

Building a Winning Culture

My time at Friends University has been nothing short of incredible.

The support I've received from the coaches, faculty, and staff has been instrumental in my success as an athlete and student. Coach Galyon has played a crucial role in helping me grow my faith and become a better golfer. His vision and leadership have been key factors in our team's success.

Coach Chris Hamman, who joined the program more recently, has also made a significant impact. His golf knowledge and expertise have taken our team to new heights. Together, Coach Galyon and Coach Hamman have created a winning culture that has propelled us to become one of the top teams in the country.

The lessons I've learned from both of them, on and off the course, will stay with me for the rest of my life.

A Special Place

What sets Friends University apart is the culture and community that has been cultivated.

The support and encouragement I've received from my professors and classmates have been invaluable. The small school environment allows for personal connections and meaningful relationships.

I've always felt like I can reach out to my instructors or coaches whenever I need help or have questions. That level of support is something I believe many student-athletes don't experience at other universities.

Friends University has truly become a home for me, and I'm grateful for the opportunities I've had to grow and succeed in such a supportive environment.

As I look back on my time at Friends University, I can't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude. The experiences and opportunities I've had as a student-athlete have been life-changing.

Winning the conference championship as a freshman, playing on a PGA Tour course, and competing at the highest level have been incredible milestones in my athletic career.

But more than that, it's the lessons I've learned, the friendships I've made, and the personal growth I've experienced that have truly shaped me. I want to be remembered as a student-athlete who worked hard, led by example, and always gave it his best.

I want to leave a lasting impact on the golf program and inspire future generations of student-athletes at Friends University.

I'm eternally grateful for the opportunities and experiences I've had, and I look forward to continuing to represent Friends University with pride and gratitude.