By Jordan Beach
Ford Berger
The Spring 2020 athletic season may have come to a halt due to the global pandemic, however, Reinhardt’s Ford Berger ’23 worked hard to qualify to compete at the 71st Annual Press Thornton Future Masters.
COVID-19 became a challenge for athletes everywhere, as seasons at both the college and professional level were forced to pause and postpone. Berger practiced when and where he could while at home, enough to earn him a spot at the Annual Press Thornton Future Masters golf tournament.
“It’s a true honor to qualify for the future masters. It’s a very prestigious tournament, and I’m very thankful for the opportunity to play in it,” said Berger.
After not qualifying for last year’s tournament, Berger, a business marketing major, worked hard throughout his first collegiate year on Reinhardt’s golf team, improving his game and learning from the seniors on the team.
“Over the past year at Reinhardt, I have learned so much about myself and golfing ability. I have learned what it takes to compete at a high level,” said Berger. “I failed many times but had to experience it to grow and improve. The level of talent of college golf was very eye-opening for myself and because of that, it has made me a very humble golfer.”
Throughout his time on Reinhardt’s team, the support that surrounds Berger elevated his talent.
“Knowing that everyone has the potential to beat you makes you become comfortable with being uncomfortable. Every one of my teammates has helped me to improve. Our coaching staff has supported me through thick and thin. Our team has pushed me to levels I didn’t think I could reach. It’s with this environment that I was going to either crash and burn or thrive.”
Berger, who will compete at the tournament June 20-27 in Dothan, Alabama, is grateful for those who have helped improve his game as he continues to improve.
“My dad told me, ‘college is either going to make or break you, and I think it’s making you.’ I want to say thank you to all those people that have helped me to become better.”
