South Yarmouth – For Barnstable rising junior Colin Gleason, golf is more than just a sport – it’s a way of life. Gleason, a dedicated golfer, finds solace and comfort on the golf course, where he feels most like himself. Despite the challenges and frustrations that come with the game, Gleason sees golf as a metaphor for life, teaching him valuable lessons about resilience and perseverance.
“My family definitely ranks above it, for sure,” Gleason said. “But golf is who I am.” For Gleason, golf is not just a hobby or a pastime – it is a fundamental part of his identity. He thrives on the challenges and rewards that come with the game, using it as a tool to navigate the ups and downs of life.
One of the key lessons that Gleason has learned from golf is the importance of resilience. He understands that there will be bad shots and bad days on the course, but it is how you respond to those setbacks that truly matters. “It’s hard when you let your score dictate how you feel because when you play bad, it can get in your head,” Gleason said. “But you always know there’s going to be a better day ahead.”
Gleason’s journey in golf has been marked by growth and self-discovery. He recalls a moment during a junior amateur match at Bayberry Hills where he had to overcome a challenging lie in a bunker. Instead of trying to be a hero, Gleason made a smart decision to take an unplayable lie and ultimately salvaged a bogey. This experience taught him the importance of making strategic decisions both on and off the course.
“Golf has helped me slow down and not get frustrated because it can be a frustrating game,” Gleason said. “You have to be prepared for your round, and that preparation is something I’ve taken into everyday life.” Gleason’s dedication to the game is evident in his commitment to improvement and growth, both as a golfer and as a person.
Gleason’s passion for golf is further fueled by his sister, Molly, a standout athlete in volleyball and basketball. Despite playing different sports, the siblings share a competitive spirit that motivates them to push each other to be the best they can be. Gleason admires his sister’s ability to perform under pressure and strives to emulate her resilience and determination in his own game.
While Gleason may not have achieved the desired results in recent tournaments, he remains undeterred in his pursuit of excellence. “When you have a bad day, you can’t keep sitting on it because you’ll keep doing it over and over again,” he said. “You have to take the ups and downs, wipe it off your shoulder, and know you’re going to play well at some point.”
Recently, Gleason represented Cape Cod in the Massachusetts Boys’ Junior Amateur Championship, where he reached the quarterfinals before bowing out to Josiah Hakala. Despite the outcome, Gleason’s performance showcased the talent and determination of Cape Cod golfers, proving that they can compete at the highest levels.
As the championship matches approach, Gleason’s focus remains on growth, improvement, and resilience. He understands the challenges that lie ahead but is determined to face them head-on. Through golf, Gleason continues to learn valuable life lessons that shape his character and define his journey both on and off the course.