Every golfer knows that the journey from the first swing to the  greens is never a straight shot. That's precisely what Caolan Rafferty, our guest this week, proves as he recounts the swings and roundabouts of his golfing career. From flipping his stance at eleven to stepping away from the sport, only to return with a rejuvenated love for the game, Caolan's story is a testament to resilience. We delve into the pressures that once pushed him away from golf and the mindset shift that would bring him back to the Irish amateur scene with a flourish. Caolan's narrative isn't just about overcoming obstacles; it's about rediscovering joy amidst competition and the transformative power of finding your passion. Imagine balancing a business management degree with reviving a near-professional golf career. This episode peels back the curtain on how Caolan did just that, thanks to a scholarship at Maynooth University and the mentorship of Eugene Smith and Barry Fenley. The collegiate greens provided more than just an education; they offered a sandbox for perfecting chip shots and indulging in trick shot challenges. Even amidst the pandemic, Caolan drive led him to play in the Palmer Cup, a reminder that opportunities can still bloom in the face of adversity. His experiences show us the lighter side of training and the importance of mentors in guiding us through the rough. Wrapping up our roundtable, we tackle the complexities of balancing personal life with professional ambition, a dance familiar to many high-level athletes. Caolan shares insights on the selection process for prestigious teams, the electrifying thrill of a Walker Cup nod, and how life's milestones, like marriage, can redefine one's trajectory on the fairway. His journey illuminates the tightrope walk between golf and life, the joy of the sport, and the friendships forged along the fairways. It's a conversation that celebrates the birdies and bogeys of a golfer's life, offering a front-row seat to the heart of what makes golf such an enrapturing pursuit. Follow amateur info https://instagram.com/irish_amateur_golf_info?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==