With the clacking of golf clubs via his Bear Creek School teammates in the background, senior Oliver Nordberg relived a special day at The Golf Club at Redmond Ridge.
In a senior day match against Seattle Academy on Sept. 26, Nordberg sunk four birdies during the nine-hole match and notched medalist honors with a 3-under 32. His eyes light up when he notes that it was his best-ever nine-hole high school score.
It was a tough start, but that didn’t last for long.
“I bogied the first hole and I was not very happy after that, but I settled myself down and focused and just let my game do the talking,” said Nordberg, who either birdied or parred the remaining eight holes.
The leftie gained motivation from last season’s 1A state tournament and has put that momentum into play this fall. After admittedly struggling at state his first two years, he rebounded his junior year to finish fourth with a 78-68-146 at Liberty Lake Golf Course. Bear Creek’s John Hayes capped his senior season with a first-place showing of 73-69-142 and the Grizzlies won the team crown.
Nordberg’s 68 was the best round among the field on both days.
“On the second day, I just had maximum focus, gave it all I had and it paid off,” Nordberg said. “Because of that 68, I feel like I have a shot to win the state tournament this year.”
Norberg tries to keep things cool and calm on the course, taking things one step at a time and ironing out any faults along the way.
As a senior leader, here’s his assessment of his squad and words of wisdom to the Grizzlies:
“There’s a lot of young talent on this team. Aaron Moore, he’s a freshman, he’s really really good. He has a super bright future ahead of him, and there’s a few other players who will be very very good in the future. I just say work hard at practice and focus. Don’t let the emotion get the best of you.”
The Reporter asked Nordberg a series of questions for a behind-the-scenes glimpse into his life:
What’s your biggest pet peeve?
Loud noise in small areas, can’t handle that.
What’s your dream vacation spot?
Somewhere warm and sunny. The beach.
What’s something unique about yourself?
I’m left handed. I do swim team at Woodridge (swim club).
Who’s your idol growing up?
My dad.
What’s your favorite kind of music?
Right now, it’s probably rap.
What’s your favorite movie of all time?
This is a tough one. Probably the first “Creed,” boxing move with Michael B. Jordan.
How many texts do you send per day?
Around 100, maybe more, maybe less. It depends.
What’s your favorite subject in school?
History.
Who’s your favorite actor and actress?
Actress, Alexandra Daddario and actor, Brad Pitt.