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06/07/2019 12:00 AMRyan Powers loves the community aspect of golf and how the sport brings people together. As a senior captain on the Morgan golf squad, Ryan unified the Huskies by making sure that everyone formed friendships while bonding both on and off the course.
Ryan got into golf as a result of taking trips to the driving range with his father. Ryan joined the high school team in his freshman year and worked his way up to rank of captain as a senior this spring. Head Coach Eric Bergmann says that Ryan did an excellent job of leading a young Huskies’ bunch by showing respect for both the program and the game.
“Ryan mentors our freshmen players, offering support and encouragement as they encounter some of the difficulties that come with the game of golf. He celebrates their achievements and helps each player develop a stronger mental edge,” says Bergman. “Ryan conducts himself with the highest level of integrity and represents our school and community as a true leader. He plays to win and plays to the true spirit of the game.”
Ryan has benefited from developing great mental strength on the links. He’s also come a long way from a physical standpoint during his four-year high school career.
“I just keep staying focused out there. The sport can be such a mind game, so keeping my head straight really helps,” Ryan says. “I played varsity all four years, so there have been some big jumps. I was nervous as a freshman, so there’s been a big leap confidence-wise. Through going to the gym, I’ve gotten bigger and stronger through the years.”
Ryan wanted to serve as influential figure for his younger teammates in his capacity as a captain. Ryan always ensured that everyone on the Huskies was having fun while competing in a comfortable environment.
“I like being the captain. It’s cool, because the kids look up to me,” says Ryan. “I treat and respect them the way they would want to be treated. I also want to make sure [that they’re] never afraid to speak up if they don’t like something.”
Ryan likes that he gets to play on a wide variety of golf courses that feature their own unique aspects. Ryan especially enjoys competing on the same greens that have been tread on by some of biggest stars in the PGA.
“I love [TPC River Highlands] in Cromwell, where they have the Traveler’s Championship,” Ryan says. “The course is great and playing on the same course as professional golfers is just a blessing.”
Ryan thanks Coach Bergman, assistant coach Ryan Cherry, his family, and all of his current and former teammates for their support over the years. Ryan believes that he grew as a player, a person, and a leader throughout his experience as a golfer at Morgan.
“Playing with this team has made me a better person. I’ve learned how to fit in at courses and earn respect from people,” says Ryan. “The game has also helped me stay in shape, and I just love that it’s a game I can play with my friends all the time.”