Issue link: https://catalog.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1220922
43 J ake Rowe has proven to be a key contributor for the University of Iowa men's golf team, more than 3,000 miles from his home of Portadown, Northern Ireland. Adaptability, perseverance, and diligence are factors that have contributed to the recent success for the Hawkeye junior. Rowe never imagined the possibility of becoming a collegiate-level golfer growing up. In fact, throughout his upbringing, he mainly concentrated on playing field hockey. "I started golf quite late," said Rowe. "I didn't start playing until I was about 13. Field hockey is quite big back home in Europe, so I played that throughout my younger years. It was a big part of my life, but I gave that up when I was 16 when I realized that I wanted to play golf." Rowe quickly took a liking to golf and became a standout, developing his game throughout high school. His recruitment happened fast, coming into contact with Iowa head coach Tyler Stith the fall of his senior year. Rowe traveled to Iowa for a visit and ultimately signed with the Hawkeyes. Ever since Rowe stepped on campus, he has had challenges to overcome. "I didn't know anyone over here, so it was hard for me that way, but it has all worked out for the best," explained Rowe. Rowe has been able to rely on his coaches and teammates to help him through the transition of moving to a different country in order to become the best golfer he can be. "We all go out and challenge each other on the course," Rowe said. "When you're in that type of environment, you are going to get better. Our coaches are great, they want us to better our game every day and we want to better our own." Rowe has become a key contributor through hard work and dedication. He has competed in all three spring tournaments. Alex Schaake, a senior teammate and roommate, can attest that Rowe's efforts have not gone unnoticed. "e way his habits and confidence have grown is amazing and inspiring," said Schaake. "He's a hard worker and I can't even imagine how difficult it is to be so far away from home. I have a ton of respect for him. He has played great this year and I give credit to the hard work that we all put in over the winter." Iowa assistant coach Charlie Hoyle has high expectations for Rowe as the season progresses. "In our tournament at Puerto Rico, he shot his career best tournament round," said Hoyle. "I expect him to keep building off that and keep improving as he plays more. He is diligent with everything he does; he buys into the process and gets on with it." APRIL SCHEDULE April 5-7 at Calusa Cup (Naples, Florida) April 18-19 Hawkeye Invitational