Arav Tank '23 Recruiting Profile

On a single day, golf can be about a handful of moments, each the difference between reaching your goals, or falling short. However I believe that golf is a perpetual challenge, and it has been my sole focus since I can remember. Golf for me has been about the mornings, afternoons and evenings with my father, in the garden, the garage, the course, and pretty much everywhere else, playing, talking and living golf. My mother taught me that like in life, I was taught the value of dedication, commitment and consistency in the sport. I also believe golf is a game of character, challenging all facets of the human composition: mental acuity, physical stamina, creativity and more. That is why I apply the same dedication, commitment and consistency to my academics and extracurriculars, using every opportunity to learn from others, practice new skills and help the community.  

My Golfing Journey

My journey so far has consisted of some memorable successes: my first win on the NJGA tour at Heron glen and winning the White Beeches, NJ junior championship for two consecutive years, but also some opportunities to learn and re-evaluate such as coming second in my first play-off at the NJGA Mountain classic tournament as I rushed through the shots losing my rhythm.

My character

I am incredibly fortunate to have learnt so much from some amazing coaches at IMG, from my parents, from my peers, but also my competitors through the years. I believe my approach to learning is what sets me apart, as I build a foundation to not just excel in my youth, but hopefully in a long golfing career. I believe the two keys to learning are repetition and criticism. In sport, but also academics, repetition builds memory - either muscle or mental - both of which are used in golf. It is through repetition that you can experiment, improve and solidify. I have always believed that criticism is a gift for athletes: when taken correctly, it can only serve to improve you, and at times motivate you. The most important such gift I ever received was a criticism of my temperament at a young age; emotionally responding to less than perfect shots, or rushing in nervous or pivotal situations. I now consider my temperament a great strength, and I am always reminded of how to respond to adverse situations and how to receive and be thankful for criticism.

My Aspirations

I want the opportunity to learn from the very best. To have the best teammates, coaches and facilities in order to collectively strive for excellence. This means continuing to learn in golf, academics and in life at a fantastic institution and to keep taking the next steps until I have reached my goal.