The ASU men’s golf team embarked on an experience of a lifetime this week when they traveled across the world to compete in the Topy Cup in Tokyo, Japan.
ASU assistant coach Mickey Yokoi along with five members of the team made the journey to Japan on Labor Day. The Sun Devils kicked off tournament play on Thursday and will conclude the event on Saturday.
While the ASU golfers are relishing the incredible opportunity, they are focused on bringing a Topy Cup victory back to Tempe.
“We want to win the tournament as a team,” junior Spencer Fletcher said. “First and foremost that is the goal. We know we have the talent to do it. We have to go play well and try to accomplish that.”
The Topy Cup is being held at the renowned Tanagura Country Club where the tournament format will be team stroke play.
ASU is confident they can compete well on the challenging course.
“Everyone is extremely capable,” Fletcher said. “It’s always fun to put yourself in position to win, to feel the pressure, and having to hit good shots when it really matters.”
The Sun Devils have prepared for the event in Tokyo since their arrival and had hoped to get in a few practice rounds before Thursday’s tee off.
“When we get there, we are going to the golf course,” Fletcher said before the trip. “Probably playing and trying to get over the time difference.”
Representing ASU in Japan are Fletcher, senior Thomas Buran, junior Philip Francis, senior Scott Pinckney, and sophomore Jin Song.
ASU will be playing among some of Japan’s elite golf talent, along with three of the United States’ strongest collegiate golf programs.
“Japan is an unusual tournament because we play against a lot of Japanese teams,” Yokoi said. “There are only four American teams going over.”
Joining ASU in representing the United States are UA, Fresno State, and 2009 NCAA champion Texas A&M.
While the Sun Devils are motivated to play their best golf, the opportunity to experience another country, tour the city, and sightsee has them more than excited.
“We get two nights in Tokyo and one full day to see their culture, one that a lot of Americans never get to see,” Fletcher said.
With the challenging 2010-2011 season looming when the Sun Devils return, their Topy Cup experience will not soon be forgotten.
“It’s an amazing experience to go with teammates and great friends,” Fletcher said. “It’s a trip I’ll remember for the rest of my life.”
Reach the reporter at gregory.dillard@asu.edu
