Interview with SHS Golfer Bradley Hinkel
Welcome back to the fall edition of Off the Reels! This athlete has not only played at the varsity level since his freshman year but has been consistently scoring at the top of the golf team ever since.
Meet SHS Golfer Bradley Hinkel…
Golf story:
Bradley first started playing golf in 3rd grade, but it was not until junior high that he became more serious about it. He tried out for the club team and began to take swing lessons. After making the team, he was motivated to improve and practiced almost daily. By the time high school came around, he was fully prepared to take it to the next level. He made the varsity team as a freshman and began competing in various invitationals and matches.
Bradley’s most rewarding match:
Bradley got off to a rough start on the first few holes at the Springboro Invitational during his sophomore year; however, he did not let that stop him from having a great round. Bradley recalls, “I followed it up with 2 chip-ins and multiple birdies to shoot 75.” He was very proud of his ability to regroup and come back from a challenging start.
How to come back after a bad hole:
Golf requires a strong mental game to succeed. The best golfers can shake off a bad hole and come back even better on the next one. “I tell myself that the last hole didn't happen and stay focused on the next shot.”
Bradley’s favorite golf course:
His favorite course to play is Heatherwoode Golf Course. “They treat junior golfers extremely well, and the course conditions are always top-notch.”
How to stay motivated to improve:
It can be difficult to always stay motivated to improve in a sport such as golf. There are always constant ups and downs that can mentally affect a player's mindset. Bradley’s approach to handling this is to keep reminding himself of his goal and push through no matter what. “I just want to keep getting better.”
Something people do not know about golf:
“A lot of people always assume that golf is easy but it’s way harder than you’d think. You can hit the same shot with the same swing and it will have a different outcome depending on the day.”
Bradley’s strengths and weaknesses:
“I like to think my biggest strength is my wedge game. Anything 100 yards and in, I feel comfortable with.” Short wedges tend to be an area that even the most experienced golfers struggle with, so having the ability to feel confident in this area is something that can set apart golfers from the rest. “As for my weakness, I feel that my putting has a lot of room for me to improve my game even more.”
Favorite memory:
“My favorite part has been the van rides to and from tournaments. The van is where all of the best memories are made. Getting to hang out with the team and listening to music is always really fun.”
Bradley’s high school accomplishments:
Bradley was awarded 1st Team All-Conference in both his sophomore and junior year. He also received Co-MVP at the end of his sophomore year for his performance and leadership. With the season still in continuation, there is no doubt that he will receive many more awards!
Bradley’s golf goals:
At the time of the interview, Bradley and the rest of the golf team were prepping for Districts. “My main goal is to advance to State as a team.” The boys team ended up placing 3rd to advance to State this weekend in Columbus. Springboro is 1 out of only 2 schools in Ohio to have both their boys and girls golf teams advance to State this year.
Advice for other golfers:
“Maintain most of your practice on your short game. Focus on your putting and getting as many up and downs as possible because that can save your round.”
Good luck to Bradley and the rest of the golf teams as they wrap up their season at State this weekend!
