QUICK UPDATE (Winter 2010-11) — Drew came to Broadway in 2010 looking better than most freshmen, and finished the season looking better than most of the District. In his first high school match Drew had a pair of putts on the final two holes that, had they fallen, would have given him a share of the medal—and this took place at Lakeview, where his 78 was something like 14 shots better than he'd ever done before on that course! Drew, who draws some of his toughness from wrestling (like his father), did not participate in the junior tours in 2010, and less-often in the TPS than he did in the past—but he was able to qualify for the Regional Tournament, and he made it clear that he may wrestle in the 103 or 112 weight class, but he plays golf with the big boys.

 

Coach's Comments

Drew started lessons in the spring of 2008, just before he turned 12 years old. It didn't take long for me to see that he had the kind of demeanor it takes to be a great golfer--his attitude hardly ever changes on the golf course, and he is willing to work through the inevitable challenges that golf throws at all of us. It also did not take long for Drew to start showing his talent.

 

In his first year Drew finished 4th in the TPS standings, and jumped to 2nd in the 2008-2009 season. As Drew became a better, and more accurate ball-striker, his numbers on the course made a strong move in the right direction: his best tournament score went from 97 to 78 in two years time! And he had a good look at two putts on the 17th and 18th holes in his first high school match that would have made him medalist.

 

Prognosis: Drew has shown great mental strength and improvement on the course--without power. At less than 110 pounds as a 14 year-old (which serves him well in wrestling) he has had a difficult time attacking longer par-4s and par-5 holes. As he grows and gets stronger, and as we build more power into his swing, he will be a force to reckon with in the high school district.

 

On a personal note, I know from playing several two-man events with Drew's dad, David, that Drew comes by much of his talent and mental strength honestly. The whole Diaz family are friends of mine, and I can't think of better people to call friends. I know that Drew will continue to prosper with a background like that.

 

Amateur Highlights

• Freshman season at Broadway High School — Regional tournament qualifier