Sports Spotlight: Drew Lanier

Winter Park - Maitland Observer
Sports

A senior on the Winter Park boys golf team, Drew Lanier is one of the top golfers in Orange County and is looking to help the Wildcats make a strong postseason run. But when he’s not out on the court, you’re likely to find Lanier out on the basketball court with his friends.

How old were you when you first got into golf, and how did you get into it?

I started playing golf seriously when I went into eighth grade. I was at Orangewood Christian at the time and made that team as an eighth-grader on the varsity team. Then I transferred over to Winter Park High School my sophomore year. I just fell in love with it (golf).

Has golf always been your sport of choice?

I did play baseball, probably as my No. 1 sport up until eighth grade — 13 or 14 years old.

What’s been a highlight for you playing high school golf?

I’d say competing at states the past two years. We should be able to get there this year. Playing at states under that pressure and environment is pretty fun.

What’s the best advice that you’ve ever been given by coach Rob Robinson?

He’s always saying, “One shot at a time.” You have to be able to execute in that moment and not really think about anything else. Once you step into the shot, you have to zero in.

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve had to face when it comes to golf?

I’d say the rounds where you don’t start out as well — the rounds where you get over par early. That’s probably the biggest challenge, because once you put yourself in a hole to start the round, it’s hard to get out of it.

Which part of your game would you say is the strongest?

I’d say my chipping is probably the strongest of my game. There’s been a lot of rounds lately where I haven’t hit a lot of greens, but my short game is working.

What have been some goals for you this season?

Our team has one goal, and that’s to win the state title as a team and get a ring. As a senior, that would be one of the coolest things that I ever could do.

Are you a cat or a dog person?

I’m a dog person, because I have beautiful yellow labrador retriever named Lucy. I got her eight to 12 years ago, and she is awesome. Just a people’s dog.

Do you have a favorite golfer you admire?

I think my favorite golfer is Jordan Spieth, just because of the way he carries himself and the way he treats people. He has the mindset that you want to have on the golf course.