Pablo Robles '21 Recruiting Profile

          I started playing golf at the age of 6. When I started playing, I was an underdog even though I practice a lot to improve. This gave me motivation and desire to practice even more. It definitely made me appreciate the wins and never take anything for granted. I grew up on the west side of Puerto Rico, in a town called Cabo Rojo. There arent much players in my area that compete on a high level and the conditions of my home course are poorly maintained; however I manage to take the maximum advantage of the facilities. Growing up I used to complain because of the conditions and the disadvantages I had. My dad showed me the greatest lesson I have ever learned,he taught me to stop assuming the role of the victim and if I actually wanted to do something I needed to work hard with my circumstances. He changed my perspective of seeing things, so many people focus on the negative things that you forget the good things. I forgot how lucky I was to live on a course and the advantage to practice at any time. I directed all my energy into positive things and my attitude on the course improved a lot. With a great attitude, great things can be accomplish.

          At the age of 14, Puerto Rico was devastated due to hurricane Maria. I had to leave my country, family and friends to continue pursuing my dreams. I went to study my freshman year at Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy and it definitely boosted my game to the next level. I created a huge awareness and ownership of my game that would not have occurred otherwise.  I am a very patriotic person and representing my country or institution is an honor to me. Thankfully I have been blessed with the opportunity to represent my country several times with the Puerto Rico Golf National team and compete in the highest level with other countries. Being part of a team creates the unique opportunity to bond with each player and share knowledge and skills.  Everything was going perfect, but while being in the academy I was diagnosed with epilepsy. I was 15 years old and the diagnosis was shocking and embarrassing at first, but eventually I realized that it was all for the best. It helped me value myself more and forget the opinion and acceptance of others. In golf, it helped me a lot by forgetting what others will think If I play bad. It made me play more freely which of course dramatically improved my game. I did not need others opinion and for the first time I was not scared while playing golf, I started playing more confident than ever. Thank God my epilepsy is now well controlled with medications. 

           I do my best until I achieve every single goal and I always enjoy the whole process. Though all my obstacles I never forgot my direction. During the path I knew my goals and that gave me motivation to keep fighting. I want to be the best player and student I can possibly be. I wake up every morning to give my 110 percent on the range, course, and gym.I love to go to sleep knowing I have done my best and that I am closer to fullfill my goals. I thank God for everything that has happened to me because it has  created a strong and independent character. I have become a great golf player and a leader. Golf looks a lot like life, even though you work hard for something;  the outcome isn’t always as planned, but you have to keep on trying.