Nathan Close '25 Recruiting Profile

Golf may seem like an individual sport, but for me, it has been the backdrop to meeting people, discovering places, and growing up in unexpected ways. It's a game that has changed me physically and mentally, and more importantly, has shaped me into a young man ready to face the world. I remember my first competitive golf round very vividly. I was so nervous I was barely able to keep my hands steady on the club. I looked around and saw a mix of competitors- most older than me, some as nervous as me. I quickly realized that golf, unlike many sports, wasn't about beating the person next to you; it was about improving yourself. The longer I played golf, I met people from all walks of life, from highschool kids like me to business owners, each with their own story and reason for being there. The game taught me patience and humility. Each swing was a lesson, whether I hit a perfect shot or ended up in a sand trap. Beyond tournaments, golf has been a way for me to connect with my family, especially my dad. We’ve spent countless hours on the course, not just playing, but talking- about life, goals, and values. Playing with my dad and his friends gave me the chance to observe how they handle the highs and lows of the game. Watching them taught me more than any words could about resilience, respect, and composure. Their patience and encouragement helped me understand that golf, like life, is about learning from mistakes, and moving forward. Golf has also opened doors I never expected. I've been invited to courses I'd only seen in pictures , places that have taken me to scenic parts of the country. Each new course, with its unique challenges and beauty, has expanded my perspective. Meeting locals and fellow golfers in these places made the world feel both larger and more connected. I've built friendships with people I would have never met in my daily life, from a golf pro who taught me how to perfect my swing, to a fellow competitor who shared tips for handling my nerves. The experiences I've gained through golf have gone beyond the sport itself. It has given me confidence and taught me how to introduce myself, strike up conversations, and engage with people I've just met. These skills have proven invaluable not only on the course but in every part of my life. I’m more comfortable now in classrooms, interviews, and social gatherings because I know how to find common ground and connect with others. Playing golf has taught me that life is about the journey, not just the score. Each shot, each encounter, and each new place has been a step forward in becoming the person I am today. I am grateful for the doors golf has opened for me, the lessons it has taught me, and the people it has introduced me to. As I look forward to new challenges and experiences, I know that the skills I’ve gained through golf will carry me through, both on and off the course.