Senior Reid Smith strives for success in golf and has for as long as he can recall.

Growing up around golf instilled in him a true love for the sport. “I would always go hit balls with my dad ever since I could remember,” Reid said. “But I first started playing around 6th grade. Despite growing up in the sport, Reid has chosen not to play college golf. “I always think about it. Sometimes I regret not doing it but in the end I feel like I made the right decision to not play in college. I will play some smaller tournaments later in life.”

One of the most important things to Reid in golf is his relationship with God through the sport. “I feel like tournament golf not only makes you a better golfer, but a better person and follower of God,” Reid said. “Like the night before a tournament, I would get nervous and then I would pray and ask God if He would calm my nerves, and He’s never failed to do so.”

Considering how often he golfs, Reid is bound to have some favorite courses. “About two weeks ago, I went with my dad to play two courses in Scottsdale, Arizona. One was TPC Scottsdale and the other was Troon North Golf club,” Reid said. “Troon North is easily the best course I have ever stepped foot on.” Reid also had a few things to say about the sport itself. “My favorite part about golf is easily hitting a pure shot or having a good round when you don’t hit the ball that well if that makes sense.”

This story was originally published in the Warrior Times Volume 13, Issue 4.