There wasn’t much doubt in freshman golfer Cole Chrisman’s mind when he decided to choose the University of Idaho. He followed three family members who also attended the school.
“Both of my grandparents went here (University of Idaho) and my uncle,” Chrisman said.
Chrisman said although his family ties to Idaho played a factor in his decision to commit, the opportunity to play golf was his real motivation.
Now that Chrisman is here, he’s getting very acquainted with his teammates, school and golf schedule, he said. The experience has been one that he’s enjoyed, he said.
Head coach David Nuhn said Chrisman is still getting comfortable with college and the competition, but he has the right attitude for the transitional process
“He’s a very likable young individual. He doesn’t cause problems. He wants to do what is right,” Nuhn said.
Chrisman said he had already become familiar with some of the Idaho golfers before becoming a member of the Vandal golf team.
He and sophomore golfer Brock Anderson are both originally from Oregon and competed against one another in junior golf tournaments growing up, he said.
Chrisman is originally from Bend, Oregon, which is a town with many surrounding golf courses. His favorite to play is Cross Water, located only 20 minutes away from his home.
However, courses tend to become more challenging at the college level. It’s a major step up from high school golf, Nuhn said.
Despite his freshman status, Chrisman has competed in three of the team’s four outings thus far.
Nuhn said Chrisman’s attitude has been instrumental in the success he’s had for the Vandals.
“I really appreciate that especially in high school golfers,” Nuhn said. “It’s very easy to discern the kids who are going to conduct themselves in the right way versus those who will lose their temper or be pessimistic.”
Chrisman’s upbeat and positive attitude is something that aids his golf game, aside from his exceptional ability to drive the ball off the tee, Nuhn said.
In order for a golfer to set themselves up for success on a given hole, they must get off the tee and on the fairway. Nuhn said this is something Chrisman does well.
There is still always room for development, and Nuhn said Chrisman is very open and willing to try anything that could potentially help his golf game.
“Some things just occur that can get you a little off in golf. We are addressing some of those small things,” Nuhn said.
Spring is not nearly as far away as it seems, and Chrisman said the way he prepares going forward will say a lot about the success he will have.
Preparation and perseverance are pivotal in every sport, however, winter and golf do not go hand-in-hand.
Amidst the likely treacherous Moscow weather ahead, he still plans to get optimal work in other ways.
The golf team has an indoor facility which allows players to practice everything from chipping to putting, Chrisman said.
But the feel of a real course is still a major factor for Chrisman and his flourishing golf game that cannot be replicated. He said the plan is to head for warmer weather.
“Since we have winter break coming up, I’ll probably try to go down to California for a week or so to hang out and play some golf,” Chrisman said.
While golf is certainly a major aspect of his life, Chrisman’s academic capabilities should not be short-changed. Nuhn said he does exceptionally well.
“Like any freshman, he’s figuring out how to do it on his own without the push from home,” Nuhn said. “We have such a great academic staff here. He’s getting any help he may need, which is very little.”
Zack Ozuna can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @OzunaZack21