Athlete of the Week: Luke Miller

Fifteen-year-old Luke Miller shot a 69 to earn medalist honors and help Lakewood Ranch win the 19th annual Donald Ross Memorial Invitational Oct. 1, at Sara Bay Country Club. The sophomore, who moved to Lakewood Ranch last month from Pennsylvania, won individual honors after winning a four-hole playoff with Bradenton Christian’s Philip Knowles.

What was your reaction when you won your playoff?
It was really interesting. I haven’t had many situations where I’ve been in a playoff. It was four holes, so it took awhile. I felt pressure at first, but then it went away and I just played my regular game.

How did you get into golf?
I have been playing competitively since I was about 8 years old. My Dad played golf and helped my brother play golf at Georgia Tech. I wanted to follow in his footsteps. I wanted to compete and play in middle and high school.

What do you enjoy the most about golf?
Meeting all of the new and interesting people. It’s a different group of people that you play with each day.

What is the biggest strength of your game?
My short game has helped me out a lot over the years. My short game has given me birdie (situations) and opportunities to make putts.

What do you enjoy the most about playing for the Mustangs?
It’s just good to be around kids who are teammates, solid competition and good friends. There’s competition within the team. It’s fun.

If you weren’t playing golf, what sport would you want to play?
Soccer. I played in elementary and middle school and on a cup team that was ranked ninth in the nation.

Do you have any siblings?
I have a brother, William, who played golf at Georgia Tech, and a sister, Kristy, who is the feature twirler and the captain of the dance team at Georgia Tech.

What is your favorite subject?
Math. I just think it comes easy to me.

What was your favorite cartoon show growing up?
“SpongeBob.” I just thought it was funny.