The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
by Doug Endres staff writer/courtesy Carthage Journal Pilot
Aaron Neff, a senior from Carthage, signed a letter of intent last week to play golf for Western Illinois University.
"I've dreamed of playing Division I golf for a long time," Neff said. "This is amazing. I don't think it's actually hit me yet."
Neff had talked to WIU Head Coach Mel Blasi before this season. After sifting through offers from other programs, Neff decided to call Blasi about a month ago.
"Coach Blasi seemed happy to be talking to me," Neff said. "He said he had a spot left on the team, and it was mine if I wanted it. I've known Coach Blasi for a long time. He's a wonderful person and a wonderful coach. I hope he can help me improve my game."
Neff had only received offers of preferred walk on from other schools.
"As a preferred walk on, I would have had to beat out about 75 other real good golfers just to have a chance to make the team," Neff said. "Now I'm guaranteed a spot."
Neff qualified for the Class A state tournament two of his four years in high school. He finished with a two-day score of 175 his freshman year, and ended this past season in a tie for 17th place with a two-day score of 154.
He was a West Central All-Conference golfer all four years.
WIU is seeded 26th in the 27-team NCAA Central Region held at Purdue University.
The team of three freshmen, one sophomore and one senior will play May 20 to 22 against Oklahoma State, Texas, TCU, Minnesota and Oklahoma.
"Their schedule is unbelievable," Neff said. "I'll be able to play against some of the best teams in the country."
Neff is focusing on all parts of his game, but particularly wants to improve his conditioning.
"In most college tournaments, you play 36 holes the first day and 18 holes the second day," he said. "I've played in a few 36-hole tournaments and it's really taxing on your body. I may be playing in one or possibly two tournaments every week."
Previous Carthage graduates to play Division I golf include Mike O'Connell, who played for four years at Notre Dame, Jerry Aten, who played for three years at WIU, and Jerry Wilhite who played for a college in the early "60s.
Neff is leaning towards a major in recreation, parks and tourism administration. He is the son of Celia Neff and Mike Neff who are pictured here with Aaron at his signing.