Andrew Zaback '16 Recruiting Profile

I have loved golf for as long as I can remember. From my first days on the course as a 4 year old playing with my father, to now when I practice every day, I have always had my sights set on playing collegiate golf. The first difficult goal I set for myself was to make one of New York State’s most competitive golf teams as a freshman.  Being the only freshman on the team, I learned countless lessons from my upperclassman teammates that I use to this day when mentoring the younger athletes on the team. My commitment to personal goals continued last summer, when I improved from a 10 to a 2 handicap, more than exceeding my end of summer goal of getting down to a 5. I work continuously to be a better golfer, pushing myself to constantly improve, while balancing my straight ‘A’ academics and other extracurricular activities. My next goals are to play scratch golf and to contribute to a competitive golf program at a top academic institution, and I am excited to see myself reach these goals.

On the golf course, I see myself as an encouraging leader who brings out the best in my teammates and myself. I continue to be positive even during an off round or after a loss, supporting my fellow golfers and reassuring them. I instill confidence in my teammates, helping them to play their best by giving them insight and advice on the course.  My private coach, John Deigan, pro at Wykagyl, has seen me improve from an unpolished eager golfer to one who works to improve his game and listens heavily to instruction. He commends me for being exceptionally teachable and receptive to both criticism and advice, knowing that I will implement any improvement he makes to my swing or game. My perseverance has helped me achieve every goal I have set for myself both on and off the course, and I firmly believe in the saying “practice makes perfect” (or at a minimum progress) because I have seen my countless hours at the range result in a continual upswing in my golfing potential and skill.

I am also conscientious and studious in all aspects of school; exceeding a 4.0-weighted GPA and maintaining an A average in every course throughout every year of high school. I have always striven for the highest possible grades dating back to my Kindergarten days, and have never achieved anything less than my personal expectations. I have many non-academic goals as well. Being selected to be a freshman retreat leader this year was rewarding, as I was able to share my experiences with the freshman and have a positive impact on them. 

I want to attend a college that will give me the necessary tools to have success in the future, while also challenging me to become a better golfer and person along the way. I look forward to exploring every opportunity and want to find the best match in terms of academics and competition.