The English pro, David Carter, works closely with three American universities. No wonder he has got first-hand experience about what it is that makes the American coaches select the particular new players for their golf teams. And he is going to share this with us in the following interview.
David, how hard is it to get a full scholarship in America?
It’s difficult but not impossible. It is somewhat easier for girls. Competition is much tougher among boys. However, it’s not just about the golf itself, being a good player doesn’t mean much. Above all, candidates for a scholarship must have good grades and be good at English. In addition to the study results, the university representatives are also interested in how well the potential candidates can fit into the team environment. They want to know the person’s character and how well he/she gets on with other people, whether this person prefers to socialise or vice versa. They want to know a lot in order to get the whole picture of the person.
You are in touch with three universities. How come?
I cooperate with university coaches in Boston, Minnesota and not that long ago i was approached by another university. Actually, it was them who contacted me; they must have confidence in me. One girl who I provided references for has been accepted by one of the universities. She got a full scholarship for four years there. I have recently met the coach from this particular university and he thanked me for sending such a talented person there and guaranteed that the school would provide a full scholarship for anyone I would recommend in the future. That’s great! We utterly trust each other.
What questions do coaches ask?
They especially ask questions regarding the personalities of the applicants. The most important information for them is their grades, the personality of the player and then golf. They know that working hard is the most important thing. Even if you get a full scholarship, it does not mean that you will become a top golfer. It just means that you get a good opportunity to work on yourself. You get education and learn a few things that will help you later in life and which will make you consider different future life paths.
What can be expected from the university golf?
It depends on the team in which you find yourself, on the league in which the team plays. Some schools are very good academically, while others are betting on more sporty orientation. Those schools which play in top leagues bring a fantastic level of golf with strong competition.
What school to choose then?
I can only speak for myself. Personally, I consider it a huge advantage when there is a golf course at the school and all practice facilities right at your fingertips. Also, there is a difference between the south and north of the United States – in the south, players can enjoy their games all year round, whereas in the north, it is not possible due to snow covering the courses for five months of the year. Therefore, it is better to go to California, Texas or even Florida. If you can practise whenever you need it, your game skills will develop. And that’s what you want, right? It’s great to finish school, take the bag and go to play. Anyway, these are my priorities. Just bear in mind that if you consider attending a university in the north, do not forget to ask the coach about the solutions they have for winter times. Do they travel south to enjoy their golf game in Carolina or Florida?
Is it necessary to have a full scholarship?
Half the scholarship might help financially, but still, the university is going to cost a lot of money. Let’s count – tuition fees are typically $50,000 a year and this does not include flight tickets and other expenses. Since you spend four years at university, the final number is $100,000 just for school. In all honesty, how many parents can afford it? Not that many.
So, what shall young people do first when starting to consider studying in the USA?
It is advisable to write to the chosen university already when you are sixteen or seventeen years old. Just simply introduce yourself and show them your qualities. Stay in touch with them long before the selection time comes. University coaches look for good players because they want to win and earn titles. Simply write your name, age, results, grades, introduce your desire to study there and remind them of yourself from time to time. It is definitely not a waste of time. Once you get their attention you are on the right track and can carry on building a relationship with them.
Photo: Florida Gators, Karolína Vlčková
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