ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: William Wrigley

The West Orange Warriors boys golf team is 8-0 and a state-title contender this fall — much as it has been in each of the past few seasons. The Warriors scored an important victory on Sept. 24, beating Apopka and Winter Park, 305-337-323. Leading the way for West Orange that day was senior William Wrigley, with a par-72. Wrigley, a four-year standout for the Warriors and a native of England who also lived in Spain, is averaging 36.33 per nine holes this season.

How old were you the first time you played golf, and at what age did you start playing competitively?
I started when I was 9, and then, I started playing competitively when I was 11.

What’s the difference between playing golf competitively as an individual and then playing for a team at the high school level?
When you’re on a team you’ve got to think differently, because you’re playing for the team — you’re not just by yourself. A mistake could cost the team, not just you.

How did you feel out on the course for the match against Apopka and Winter Park?
I got a rough start, but I got back, and I’ve been finishing pretty strong lately.

What’s it been like to have been a part of one of Central Florida’s powerhouse golf programs?
It’s been really good. It’s a great program to have been a part of all four years now.

How cool is it to be able to play some of Florida’s premier courses? 
It’s been really nice, playing at all these wonderful golf courses around Florida. Some of my favorites are East Lake Woodlands (Country Club) and then Zellwood (Station Golf Club) is a nice course. Stoneybrook (West).

What’s the camaraderie like on the team?
You’re always trying to beat one another, so there’s still a lot of competition. But, you’re still playing for the team.

How do you envision your future within the game of golf?
I’d like to stick in the golf industry, that’s for sure. I’m going to try and make it pro, and, if not, I’m going to fall back on something that has to do with golf.

How long have you been in Florida since moving from Spain?
Since 2007.

Which soccer team do you follow?
Manchester United. I was born in Manchester.

Do you enjoy that it seems to be easier to catch a soccer match from overseas on television here than it had been in years past?
Yeah, I mean it’s (soccer) getting bigger over here (in the United States) than before.

Have you enjoyed attending high school here in the United States?
It’s been good meeting new people.

What’s the biggest difference you have noticed between living here in Florida and living in Europe?
The kids are more polite over here.