Kevin Godlewski was the only Elmwood Park golfer playing in last year’s Class 2A sectional tournament, qualifying after shooting an 80 at the St. Patrick regional. Midwestern October weather made the conditions less than ideal, and it was contributing to Godlewski’s struggling throughout the day. And as a freshman, he was competing against players three years his senior.
Yet, Godlewski’s coach, Caleb Ankrom, saw no frustration from his player.
“As young as he is, I’ve maybe seen flustered a half-dozen times,” Ankrom said. “There was bad weather on the day of sectionals, and he didn’t play as well as he hoped, but he really didn’t get flustered.”
For Godlewski, 15, that’s just the way he approaches the game. And in a game that vexes players of all ages, his level head is an asset.
“Obviously if you hit a bad shot, you can’t let it get to you,” Godlewski said. “To hit a golf ball, it takes a split second. One bad shot can lead to another. Staying calm and playing it off is the best way to do it.”
Godlewski is even-keeled, but he’s also very driven: a self-proclaimed perfectionist, which was confirmed by Ankrom, who is also Godlewski’s AP World History teacher. The sophomore said he spent six days per week around golf over the summer, both playing and also caddying at Oak Park Country Club.
He also began taking private lessons roughly three months ago with Ryan Peavey, a PGA professional at the same country club. Those sessions have already paid big dividends for Godlewski.
“Since I starting working with him I’ve gained a lot of yardage, about 10 yards on everything,” Godlewski said. “I’m able to play draws, fades. When you get into trouble, it’s great to have those shots. The biggest reason I started taking lessons, I put so much time working on my swing, but I didn’t see big enough improvements. I finally went to have someone look at it, and he’s a professional.”
Godlewski was shooting in the mid-to-high 40s at this time last season. His average score through seven matches as a sophomore was 42. His first outing of the year he even shot a 37. His coach thinks Godlewski’s mental improvements have been key, though mostly in his knowledge of the game. Godlewski’s mindset on the golf course has always been steady.
“It really is a big difference (from his freshman season),” Ankrom said. “As far as I’ve known him as a golfer, he’s been a really talented golfer, but he’s really grown in the mental aspects of the game. You can see it in the subtle decision-making skills. He lives and breathes and eats golf.”
Jakub Rudnik is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
Twitter @jakubrudnik
