Adam Nussbaum: What is the adjustment from high school golf to golf at the collegiate level?
Art Griffin: It’s definitely a different playing field because the level of play is certainly elevated. Just about all of the players are exceptionally talented and getting the W [win] is much more difficult. The adjustment has been slightly challenging because I struggled with consistency last semester and that’s definitely something I am looking for this spring.
AN: When did you start playing golf?
AG: I started playing golf as a little kid around the age of six or seven and started playing competitively when I was 12.
AN: Who has been the most influential figure throughout your golf career?
AG: As much as I would love to say Tiger Woods, because of his dominance in this sport, I can’t do that because I look up to Phil Mickelson much more. He is a model of the game and has the spirit that makes me want to emulate him on the course.
AN: What is the team doing to prepare for the upcoming Navy Spring Invitational?
AG: Navy is definitely a tournament that we are gearing up for and we are really practicing putting to be ready to compete. Its been an area that the team as a whole has really struggled with and I believe that if that aspect comes around, then we will be much more of a factor to compete for wins in our tournaments.
AN: What aspect of your game have you been working most on recently?
AG: Definitely putting. I’ve been struggling of late with this part of the game and it’s really been the difference between where I’m finishing and some really low scores and good results.
AN: Who on the team deserves a shout-out for their performance thus far?
AG: I think that [senior] Bob Dyer is the player that comes to mind when I think of performance. This is his last semester as a leopard and I know that he has higher aspirations when he leaves college. He is in a similar boat that I am in which is he shooting some decent scores, but he is very close to breaking through and firing some low ones.
AN: Who do you think is going to win the Masters?
AG: Jordan Speith the whole way. Got to love the young stars.
AN: What type of golf ball do you use?
AG: I use a custom Titleist ProV1x with the number 18 and “GRIFF” printed on the side.
AN: What’s the most memorable course you’ve ever played?
AG: Most memorable course would have to be where I played the National PGA Tournament this summer, which was at Miramont Country Club in Texas. The course was in immaculate condition, as well as having the most beautiful clubhouse I’ve ever scene.
AN: What’s your favorite vacation spot?
AG: Aruba.
AN: What’s your favorite song?
AG: “The Man” by Aloe Blacc.
AN: What’s your favorite movie?
AG: “Ted.”
AN: What don’t people know about you?
AG: I used to be a very competitive freestyle skier and ended up choosing golf as a sport to pursue.