Fresno State Athletics
A Gutsy Performance
9/27/2006 12:00:00 AM | Men's Golf
Sept. 27, 2006
FRESNO, Calif. - With the fate of the Diablo Grande Invitational on his shoulders, Fresno State senior golfer Gunnar Avinelis had four holes left to finish when he re-injured his back while hitting a shot in the tournament last season. The herniated disc injury he had sustained back in November had reared its ugly head once again and just after the Springville native had completed over three months of rehab in order to make his debut back to the team for the tournament that day. It was a set of circumstances Avinelis didn't envision in his return to the green but that was beside the point.
With the Bulldogs leading late into the last round of the tournament, Avinelis made a selfless decision. Through tremendous pain, Avinelis, a junior at the time, gutted out a performance his coach, his team and he would remember for a long time to come. He finished the last four holes, leaning on one leg the entire way, and led the `Dogs to the title. It was an amazing feat for both Fresno State and Avinelis but it had its consequences. Avinelis, one of the veterans on the team, was forced to sit out the spring semester as a result of his re-injured back.
Now, Avinelis is back for the 2006-07 season. The senior is healthy and ready to lead the squad of newcomers in his final ride with the `Dogs. In a recent Q&A session with the veteran player and Smittcamp Alumni Honors student, Avinelis shared more about himself, his time spent as a student-athlete and his future.
Q&A
Why did you pick Fresno State?
The golf program has a great reputation and I received an academic full-ride scholarship from the Smittcamp Honors College.
When did you start playing golf?
When I was 11 years old.
Do you have any special rituals you do before a tournament?
I pray before every round of golf asking God for help to be an example for him no matter what happens on the course.
If you weren't playing the sport you are now, which sport would you want to play?
Basketball... my first love in sports.
What is something surprising most people don't know about you?
I have eaten three chipotle burritos in one sitting.
What is the best part of being a college athlete?
The platform it gives you to be a positive influence in the community.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Watch or play other sports. I am a sports junkie. If it has to do with sports, I am there!
What is your most embarrassing sports moment?
Getting hit in the head with a golf ball when I was attempting to catch it in a baseball glove at practice. I had to go to the hospital.
Who are your favorite sports heroes?
Paul Stankowski. He is a great golfer. More than that, he is a great family man and wonderful Christian influence on those around him.
What's your favorite movie?
Gladiator. I like the heroic stuff.
What do you want to do after you graduate?
I'm getting married in June. So basically, I'm planning on starting a career in a sports-related field and starting a family.
What is the highlight of your sports career? Favorite athletic moment?
Gutting out the last four holes of my final round at the Diablo Grande Invitational after re-injuring my back. I had to finish so that we could win the team title.
What is your favorite food?
Everything! Ask anyone who has partaken in a meal with me.
Most missed memory?
Home cooked meals every night.
Favorite television shows?
Sportscenter.
What CD is in your player right now?
Jeremy Camp (Christian Rock/Alternative)
What is the last movie you watched?
Remember the Titans.
What is your dream job?
Sportscenter Anchor.
What is your most valued possession? Why?
My Bible. I have had it ever since I was a little kid.
Players Mentioned
