Boys golf: Committing to the game

Red Wing senior Tanner Borgen understands that success on the golf course requires a great deal of commitment and, according to Wingers coach Todd Petterson, he's taken that knowledge to heart.

"He puts his nose to the grindstone and works pretty hard," Petterson said. "I basically tell everyone what they need to work on, then it's their job to do what they want to with it. He's one that does that."

Borgen said he focuses on the mental side of golf because it has a bigger presence in the game than the physical aspects. For that reason, he takes his practice sessions seriously.

"You have to practice like you are in a match," said Borgen, who averaged an 85.25 last year in eight events.

His mental approach has made a positive impact on his game.

"He's a real calm player," Red Wing senior Parker Riegelman said. "He doesn't get too (mad)."

Not only has Borgen developed into a good golfer by practicing, but he also has done so by watching.

"I would just look at the upperclassmen and know that's what I have to be like to play varsity," said Borgen, who has played in the Red Wing golf program since he was in seventh-grade.

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