Will Hickock: A season of growth with a slow start but a strong finish:
By: Kaydance Scholten
For senior Will Hickok, golf started as something new and a chance to try a sport he hadn’t tried before. He didn’t come in with big expectations, but he showed a willingness to see what the season might bring.
Reflecting on the early days of his season: “I was pretty nervous on the first tee shot,”
That initial anxiety gave way to a newfound confidence as he adjusted his swing and saw significant improvement between his first and second matches. That gave him the confidence he needed, and he is now showing improvement in each match.
“But after that first swing, the nerves go away.”
His standout performance came at the Zeeland West Jamboree, where everything clicked and started to fall into place for the season.
“I definitely performed best at our second one.”
For Will, this season was not just about improving his skills, it was about enjoying the ride. As a first time golfer, Will found his rhythm and confidence thanks to his teammates and coaches.
“It’s kind of my first time playing golf, so it’s good to have that experience.”
He shares when explaining what made his experience on the team good, that it’s because of teammates and coaches. They have made it “fun and chill,” he explains.
Will doesn’t see college golf in his future, but the sport has left a lasting impression on him, and enjoys that he can continue playing for fun in the future.
“There’s no way I play in college, but it’s fun to go out on the weekends and just play. Golf’s something you can do anywhere, anytime.”
With Will’s experience in golf, he has a few words for those just starting or wanting to try golf: “Don’t stress about it too much. You can get into your head a lot, but really, just try to have fun with it.”
Will’s journey this season is a testament to the idea that success isn’t just about scores, it’s about growth, enjoyment, and the memories made along the way that will last a lifetime.