Liberty Golf Optimistic Despite Season Cancellation

Liberty golfers grappled with disappointment after all LU sports associated with the ASUN conference were postponed until the spring semester. However, motivated by Head Coach Jeff Thomas, the team is using the extra time to remain consistent and retain momentum as they prepare for a spring season.

“We need to get into a routine and strive to become better golfers,” Thomas said. “We need to stay focused on our goals (and) take advantage of the time we have together.”

Though losing a season is frustrating, junior Jonathan Yaun believes an altered fall season is an opportunity to continue honing his skills outside the ASUN.

“When I heard the news in March that our season was cancelled, I became more motivated to prove myself,” Yaun said. “We can turn this negative outcome into a positive one, and we just have to be thankful for every day.”

Over the summer, Yaun participated in the North & South Amateur Championship at Pinehurst Resort in Pinehurst, North Carolina, one of the most prestigious amateur events in U.S. golf. Yaun reached the semifinals of the week-long event, but ultimately lost to the defending tournament champion, Georgia Tech’s Tyler Strafaci, in a close 2-1 match.

Despite falling short of his goal, Yaun relished the chance to compete against stiff competition, and will use the experience as fuel for his preparations this fall.

“I prepared a lot for that tournament,” Yaun said. “A year ago, I was caddying for (teammate) Ervin Chang at this tournament, so I was thankful to God for the opportunity and just played one shot at a time.”

Like Yaun, senior Ervin Chang enters this year hungry and motivated.

The NCAA granted Chang an extra year of eligibility after the spring season was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, he was named to the ASUN Men’s Golf All-Decade team this summer, a testament to two brilliant seasons in the ASUN conference.

However, Chang was dissatisfied with his 2019-20 season, which was hampered by an appendicitis surgery in July 2019. The surgery affected his swing mechanics and thus his play, so Chang is thrilled to have another chance to prove himself on the course.

“I’m looking at this season as a fresh start,” Chang said. “I’m really happy to get another year for my career and make Liberty proud.”

Liberty golf will also welcome former Florida Gator and three-time AJGA and Rolex Junior All-American Eugene Hong to bolster a roster already stockpiled with talent.

Once the 2020-21 season kicks off, Liberty has a well-built team, motivated to challenge for the upper echelon of the ASUN. For now, patience and determination will be key as they wait out the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We need to not wallow in self-pity,” Thomas said. “We have to keep glorifying God and representing Liberty well – that’s what’s important.” 

John Simmons is the Web Manager. Follow him on Twitter at @JohnSimmonsJr7.