The Fighting Irish family of Notre Dame embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime journey when they traveled to Scotland for the inaugural St. Andrews Links Collegiate. Not only did they have the opportunity to compete on the prestigious Old Course at St. Andrews, but they were also accompanied by their loved ones, making it an extraordinary experience.
Being surrounded by family while representing their university in the St. Andrews Collegiate added an extra layer of significance for the Notre Dame men’s and women’s golf teams. The event, which featured three other schools – Georgetown, North Carolina, and Vanderbilt, was beautifully captured in GOLF’s captivating documentary, Beyond The Bend. You can watch the documentary in its entirety for an immersive experience.
Although it is common for parents and families to support their college athletes during events across the United States, traveling across the pond to Scotland to be present for a college event is a truly remarkable opportunity. It is an experience that will be cherished forever.
“To have each of our players have their parents here or someone from their family was super special,” expressed women’s team coach Caroline Powers Ellis. “And especially for assistant coach Kari Bellville and me to have our families here too – to get to celebrate it as a complete Notre Dame family was something really cool.”
“Beyond The Bend: Notre Dame’s Odyssey to the Home of Golf”
Coach John Handrigan emphasized the significance of family in the Notre Dame golf program, considering it one of their core values.
“Having all the families here to celebrate this moment – I saw tears from dads when their child was walking up 18, and having this experience with our families has been great,” Handrigan reflected. “Nothing better than family.”
Graduate student captain Palmer Jackson echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the fleeting nature of life and expressing gratitude for the shared experience.
“You just never know what life has in store, so to have this moment with them forever, I’m really thankful for it,” Jackson affirmed.
To gain a deeper understanding of Notre Dame’s remarkable journey to the Home of Golf for the St. Andrews Links Collegiate, we invite you to watch GOLF’s full documentary, Beyond The Bend, available here.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is the significance of the St. Andrews Links Collegiate?
The St. Andrews Links Collegiate is a historic event that holds great prestige in the world of college golf. It provides an opportunity for top collegiate golfers to compete on the renowned Old Course at St. Andrews.
Who participated in the St. Andrews Links Collegiate?
The St. Andrews Links Collegiate featured four schools: Notre Dame, Georgetown, North Carolina, and Vanderbilt. These esteemed institutions showcased their golf prowess in this groundbreaking college event.
Why was it special for Notre Dame to have their families present?
Having their families present made the experience even more special for the Notre Dame golfers. It allowed them to share this memorable journey and celebrate their achievements together as a united Fighting Irish family.
What is Beyond The Bend documentary about?
Beyond The Bend is a documentary that chronicles Notre Dame’s extraordinary expedition to the historic Old Course at St. Andrews. It captures the essence of the event, the emotions of the players, and the importance of family in the world of collegiate golf.
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