Fresno State Athletics
Off the Course with Brian Sunker
3/5/2009 12:00:00 AM | Men's Golf
March 5, 2009
FRESNO, Calif. - Golf is a game of preparation, psychological strength and intelligence. Freshman Brian Sunker is a perfect example of these three qualities when he tees off for the Fresno State men's golf team.
Sunker has embraced such strong characteristics through the inspiration of his coach having faith in him to take his game to another level and in the classroom, being that he is a Dean's list recipient. He was also awarded one of the most impressive honors academically a student-athlete can receive. Sunker was named to the President's list for maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA, last year.
Next week the Bulldogs will host the 46th annual Fresno State Lexus Classic at Belmont Country Club. It will be Sunker's first opportunity to participate in the prestigious event in and play in front of a home crowd.
In a recent Q&A session with the Sunker, he shared more about himself, his time spent as a student-athlete and his future.
Why did you pick Fresno State?
Because of coach and because it felt like I could improve my game enough so that I could play professionally.
When did you start playing golf?
The first time I picked up a club was when I was a little kid but I didn't seriously start playing until my freshman year in high school
Do you have any special rituals you do before a tournament?
The night before I like to listen to my IPod and the morning of the tournament I don't like to talk to anyone.
If you weren't playing the sport you are now, which sport would you want to play?
Probably football just because of how much I love watching and playing it.
What is something surprising most people don't know about you?
I eat a lot. I'm pretty skinny so most people don't think I eat very much but I'm always hungry.
What is the best part of being a college athlete?
Being able to play in big time competition and to be able to represent your school
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I like to play other sports and just hang with friends.
What is your most embarrassing sports moment?
I was in a junior tournament once and I was playing pretty well until the last hole when I hit into this small pot bunker up by the green. It took me about 5 shots to get out of that bunker. I just kept hitting it and hitting it while just about every player and their parents were up by the clubhouse watching me.
Who are your favorite sports heroes?
Kobe Bryant and Tiger Woods because of how hard they work to be the best in their sport.
What's your favorite movie?
All of the Bourne movies
What do you want to do after you graduate?
I really want to play on the PGA Tour but if that doesn't work out I'd have to say something in the sports industry.
What is the highlight of your sports career? Favorite athletic moment?
The highlight of my sports career so far is probably playing in my first couple college tournaments. My favorite athletic moment would probably be when I made it to CIF individual finals my senior year.
What is your favorite food?
Mexican food
Most missed memory? The high school van rides that our golf team would take when we would have an away match.
Favorite television shows?
Entourage and The Office
What CD is in your player right now?
The Sufferer & the Witness by Rise Against
What is the last movie you watched?
Pineapple Express.
What is your dream job?
Playing professional golf. It doesn't get much better than competing against the best golfers in the world.
What is your most valued possession? Why?
My car, I got it for my 16th birthday and I plan to keep it for as long as I can.
"Join the State - Fresno State!"- The Fresno State men's golf team will be at home March 9-10 at Belmont Country Club for the 46th Annual Fresno Lexus Classic. The women's golf team hits the road for the UNLV Spring Invitational.
Players Mentioned
