Student athlete profile

Name: Drew McMillin

Year: senior

Hometown: Clarendon Hills

What's been the biggest challenge playing during COVID-19?

Probably having to wear our masks before and after the rounds. But I haven't really found it to be that big of an issue.

When did you start golfing?

I started golfing the summer before my freshman year of high school. I grew up playing competitive tennis and picked up golf as a hobby. I stuck with it because I just found it to be a much more relaxing sport, and the atmosphere was much more enjoyable.

How have you improved since freshman year?

My game has definitely gotten a lot better. I think I made a really big jump over the summer between my freshman and sophomore years and it's really starting to pay off. I'm especially seeing a lot more improvement with my putting and short game, and it's helping get my score down overall.

How would your teammates describe you?

I think I lead by example a lot. I'm pretty outgoing and sociable, but definitely hardworking and dedicated. I'm always the kid at practice early and staying late. I try to outwork the competition. I've always had to put in a little extra work to gain an edge on the competition, and I've kept that mindset.

What's been the highlight of your Central career?

When we beat LT by one shot last year.

Is it tough to stay motivated without a state final on the horizon?

It's the harsh reality, but you just have to focus on other things like winning conference and the regional tournament that they're planning.

What course would you most like to play?

Cypress Point in California.

Where might we find you 10 years from now?

Hopefully working as an investment banker at some investment bank, if everything plays out.

Why does coach Jess Krueger like having McMillin on the squad?

He works really hard at it. He's coming in prepared to compete with more experience. I look to him for leadership, too. He seems to relate well to the range of players and classes we have on the team.

- profile by Ken Knutson, photo by Jim Slonoff

Author Bio

Ken Knutson is associate editor of The Hinsdalean