State Press golf reporter Avery Feyrer spoke with junior golfer Austin Quick about his performance during the season and the improvements that better his overall golf game.
State Press: How has the season been going for you so far?
Austin Quick: The season has been going great, better than I’ve expected. A lot of stuff happened during the offseason: Max (Rottluff) broke his wrist, and Spencer (Lawson) was kicked off the team. We were looking diminished. (We) didn't have some of our best players. Alberto (Sanchez) struggled last year but has come on strong this season, having two top two finishes. Broc (Johnson) killed it in the last tournament.
SP: What improvements have you seen in your game since last season?
AQ: Confidence. After nationals last year, it was a wake-up call. Out on the course, I’m not afraid to play well. Nothing is holding me back. I’m doing my own thing out there and staying confident.
SP: What part of your game are you focusing on improving this season?
AQ: I’m focusing on my short game. I can hit the ball pretty well; hitting the fairways is my game. Everyone can improve on their short game though, like putting and chipping. It has helped me in a lot of tournaments. I’ve been working on my short game a lot.
SP: What is your favorite course/tournament to play at?
AQ: Playing in nationals last year was a cool environment. Competing with the top schools, it was an experience I’ll never forget. It was intense playing out there; you had to have a good head on your shoulders. It was good for me to realize what I can do out there.
SP: I saw that you won three state championships while at Chaparral High School. How has the type of competition from high school golf to the collegiate level changed?
AQ: Everyone is better and older. In high school, there were good players, just not as developed. In college, playing for ASU, you compare yourself to the best players. I was one of the best players in state while at Chaparral, but nationally is a whole different deal. You gotta go through the shock stage and realize you’re not the best anymore. You have to keep always improving.
SP: Who is your favorite golfer?
AQ: Jason Dufner and Freddy Couples. I’ve incorporated some stuff from them into my game; Dufner’s mental and short game, and how Couples carries himself on the course. He just goes about his business, and I admire him. He is always a fan favorite.
SP: Is there anything else you would like to add?
AQ: I hope the rest of season goes well and we kill it.
Reach the reporter at afeyrer@asu.edu or follow him on Twitter at @coffeeblack910
