Freshman Matthews delights 'M' golf

During the first two matches of the fall season, the inexperienced Michigan men's golf team knew that it would learn a lot about itself. Entering the season, Michigan coach Jim Carras figured his five-man lineup was going to consist of junior Mike Harris and four other golfers. But the Wolverines have seen a young freshman post some low numbers during their first two matches.

True freshman Andy Matthews, who placed 20th in each of his first two collegiate tournaments, has been a pleasant surprise for Michigan in the early part of the fall season.

After we recruited him "I would not have been surprised if he was in our top five before the season ended," Carras said. But "I did not expect him to break in this fast."

In the opening round of the Northern Intercollegiate in Minnesota two weeks ago, Matthews fired a team-low score of 68 in his NCAA debut. While some freshmen may have grown complacent, Matthews showed maturity beyond his years by shooting 71 and 74 in the second and third rounds, respectively.

His total score of 213 (even par) at the Northern Intercollegiate was second on the Michigan team to Harris' 210. This was a remarkable showing for a freshman who had to cope with the pressure of making his first college start.

"Any time a guy plays his first tournament, he'll be unnerved," Carras said. "That's true in any sport."

After that weekend, Carras called Matthews "the delight of the trip" and looked forward to seeing how the youngster would respond to his initial success.

During the Iowa Invitational the following weekend, Matthews experienced a roller coaster ride that every golfer knows.

He opened the tournament with a one-under-par 70, leaving him in second place for the entire tournament after 18 holes.

Unfortunately for Matthews, his second round was not as memorable, as he posted a score of 82.

"I knew that wasn't my game," Matthews said. "I knew that I could play better."

Showing his true character, the freshman bounced back to card a 73 in the tournament's third and final round. His ability to battle adversity in Iowa symbolized Matthews' fierce competitiveness.

"He just has a great personality and always gives it his best," Carras said.

Matthews has strong ties to Michigan, as his father attended the University, and his family has had season tickets to Michigan football games for several years. Carras refers to Matthews as "a Michigan man."

As is common with most of Carras' recruits, Matthews came to Michigan because of its strong academic reputation and also works hard in the classroom.

"The biggest pressure comes from trying to balance schoolwork and golf," Matthews said. "It's going pretty well so far."

When asked about expectations for the remainder of the fall, Matthews did not speak of numbers. He simply wants to enjoy himself.

"I just want to out there and have fun," he said. "If you're not having fun, you're not going to play well."

Matthews' and the Wolverines' next tournament is Oct. 5-6 in Franklin, Ind.

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