Matthew Wynne '19 Recruiting Profile

My dad has loved golf since I can remember. I on the other hand, had no interest in golf until the spring of 2016, nearly two years  ago. I was 15 years old and it was the first time I played 18 holes. I shot a 102. But I fell in love with the game, the beauty and peacefulness of the course, and recognized I had found my sport.

I began practicing and playing religiously. I started practicing chipping and putting anywhere I could. My mom will tell you that I hit the basement ceiling a few times, and that I’ve “ruined the carpet” in at least one room. My family lives on a golf course. Even during Iowa winters, I have layered up and found a way to be outside practicing on the course.

By the end of the 2016 summer, I had lowered my score to an average 80 and actually snagged a hole in one at nearby Willow Creek Golf Course. My parents saw how serious I was taking golf, and decided to get me enrolled in a winter golf program. I began working with my instructor, Rob Randall (The Legacy, Norwalk, Iowa). He helped me to fine tune my swing, and I also participated in mental golf training, which was helpful. My family then joined a nearby country club, Echo Valley (Norwalk, Iowa). I spend nearly all of my free time on the range or the practice green.

In the spring of 2017, I began my first school golf season at Des Moines Christian School. There, I earned the #4 spot on the Varsity squad. My coach, Philip Conover has been a great encourager and role model. I’m working hard on the off season to earn a higher spot this year. My team advanced to Districts in 2017, and we hope to make the state tournament next year.  In 2018, I’ve jumped two spots to the number 2 spot and a first round of 77.

I know I have much room for improvement, and will continue to work hard on my game. I enjoy competing against others, but I’ve bought in to the philosophy that I’m really competing against the courses I play.

I’m also working hard in the classroom. 2016-17 was my first year at Des Moines Christian School, my sophomore year. It was a big transition, but I’m thriving there. Previously, I attended Iowa Christian Academy, and had a high school class of 19. I’m working hard to earn good grades, and to be a great classmate. I have a 3.45 GPA and I will take my ACTs in October (update- score 24 initial try).

I am looking for a school that will allow me the opportunity to play golf while reaching my academic and career goals. I am currently unsure of what area of study I’d like to pursue, but I’m leaning towards the sciences (computer science, biology, business). My goal today and in the future is to be a great student and play competitive golf at the collegiate level while making a difference in the lives of others. Service and faith are both an integral part of who I am – they make me a stronger student-athlete. I’ve enjoyed volunteering this summer with the First Tee of Central Iowa, the Principal Charity Classic, and Meals from the Heartland. I believe I am a good leader and a player who demonstrates strong character. Golf is a game of ups and downs. My goal is to always respond to the both with a positive attitude, which allows me to keep my composure through any adversity I may face. My teammates will benefit from my positive attitude as well, just like I do from theirs.

Thank you,

Matthew Wynne