Golf poses a challenge that most sports don't. Tournaments often run three to five days, and missing that much class, all while trying to keep up with assignments in a sport that takes up the entire day, leaves little room for error. "Golfers have to be incredibly responsible and complete all their assignments way ahead of schedule," says Lauren Martin, director of golf and head women's golf coach.
With classes starting next week, Martin will continue to model her teams around a central theme: communication. This is especially true for the students' academic journey. "I believe maintaining consistent communication with coaches, professors, and the academic success department leads to the highest rate of success," she says. She schedules practice and tournament travel with that balance in mind, and every first-year player is required to complete three hours of study hall a week.
For Maria Jackson '28, a commitment to academics alongside athletics made Queens a natural fit. "I have always held myself to a high standard both in the classroom and on the course, so when looking for a program and school to be a part of the importance of discipline within the team and classroom environment was nonnegotiable for me," she says. She is also proud of the less tangible standards the program holds itself to — team bonding, inclusivity, communication with coaches and professors, and diligence in their work.
"The golf program at Queens has been a tremendous part of my academic journey," Jackson added. "The support system that comes from not only my coach, but my teammates and the athletic and academic staff at Queens has been the main reason for my success in the classroom." The support comes from working together to fit in everything from class to practice and tournaments to extra help when travel pulls her away and grace when it's needed.
It's also how women's golf posted a 3.765 team GPA and men's golf a 3.658 GPA last semester.
Donor investment gives our student-athletes access to support staff, specialized academic advising, and schedules that ensure a player can leave for a multi-day tournament without falling behind.
Get Involved This Year
This kind of support doesn't happen without a community behind it. Royal Ralliers, our new way for fans, families, and alumni to show up for the Royals jersey, launches this fall: cheer from the stands, share a post, or start a conversation with a fellow fan. Learn more and sign up today.
We also invite you to mark your calendars for October 2-9, when the Queens Athletics community joins together in support of our student-athletes for Investing In Champions, the annual week of giving. Early giving starts now, and your support unlocks benefit tiers and Royals Club membership. If you're interested in building momentum and increasing the impact of your gift, reach out to us at athletics@queens.edu to set up a giving challenge.
