Indiana University Athletics
Knapp Walking Into Success
2/1/2005 12:00:00 AM | Men's Golf
At Columbus North, Knapp finished 11th at the state championships in 2002 as a sophomore, 14th in 2003 and 19th in 2004. He was an all-state selection as a junior and closed out his high school career with a 76.03 scoring average. Impressive statistics indeed, but Knapp is the first to understand why he may not have received a scholarship offer.
"Obviously, I'm really happy just to be playing at IU. I did not come in with the best junior resume, so to get the opportunity to walk-on and then getting a chance to play here is great."
And he is not just playing; he is playing extremely well. One of the pleasant surprises this fall, Knapp has gained head coach Mike Mayer's attention with his effort on the course.
"Aaron came in here, walked on this team and really has proven himself as one of the hardest working individuals we have right now," said Mayer. "He has incredible passion for the game and a great work ethic. He is a breath of fresh air for us."
Showing just how far he has come, Knapp went to St. Petersburg, Fla., with five IU teammates over winter break to compete at the New Year's Invitational. While Jeff Overton captured medalist honors, Knapp matched Scott Seibert as the second-lowest Hoosier, tying for 35th place with 295 (74-76-71-74)
"Going to Florida to play was a good opportunity. Hopefully, I will have the opportunity to play in one of the upcoming tournaments in the spring," said Knapp.
Although he has exceeded expectations thus far, there is no telling how far Knapp can go. With the spring season on the horizon, he might not be that far away from getting his chance to showcase his talent in the Hoosier lineup.
"Aaron has been successful already," said Mayer. "He is pushing players, and they know he is around. He is working hard, and it just makes the whole team better. There is a chance, if he continues to improve and continues to work the way he has worked, he can get in the lineup very soon this spring."
