Andrew Augustyniak is having the time of his life. The former Marcos de Niza golf star is one year removed from college and pursuing a successful professional golf career. He is doing what few have an opportunity to do: Live his dream.
For years, golf has been his passion. It all started as a child, watching his father swing his golf clubs in the backyard. When Dad would go to work, Augustyniak would go outside and swing golf clubs. It was there, in the backyard, that he developed a passion for golf.
“Ever since then it’s always been just a part of my life,” Augustyniak said.
Augustyniak took that passion and transformed it into years of success on the golf course. At Marcos, he was a two-time state team selection. He would later become a regional champion and All-American at Mesa Community College. Augustyniak then moved on to the University of Nevada where he collected four NCAA top -25 finishes. From 2008-2011 he recorded five wins and 21 top-10 finishes in amateur golf.
His collegiate success has helped fuel the fire for the game he loves.
“That first year in junior college made me realize that golf is something I really wanted to pursue. Ever since then it’s been the only thing on my mind,” he said.
This is what Augustyniak has been working toward for most of his life. His plan has always been to graduate college and then pursue his dream of playing professionally. So far he’s off to a good start.
He finished fourth in the Championship Player’s Event in Arizona and in the top 30 at the Rocky Mountain Open in Colorado.
“In the tournaments I have been pro, I’ve made two paychecks,” he said. “A lot of people don’t do that.”
Every moment of success gives him more confidence and belief that he can make it as a professional golfer.
“Every single accomplishment is huge,” he said. “It makes you realize you can keep going further.
“I can do better than (make fourth place). I can win.”
Augustyniak has played other sports. Along with golf, he competed in baseball and basketball at Marcos de Niza. He liked baseball and basketball. He loves golf. He practices on his golf game four to eight hours a day. It’s a lot of effort, but it all never seems like work.
“It makes you feel alive,” he said.
Augustyniak knows his professional career will take work, dedication and relationships with the right people.
If he is to take the next step in his career, he said he will need the help of sponsors and investors in order to play in bigger tournaments.
