The summer of 2009 marked many first experiences for James Harper: his first state-level golf tournament, his first opportunity to represent California in a national tournament, and, above all, his first sudden-death playoff.

It’s his opponent’s home course. Harper must sink a twenty-five-foot putt for birdie. if he makes the shot, then he would automatically win. With wind blowing left and right in a tight fairway with out-of-bounds on the left and a golf-sized “canyon” on the right, the pressure is on.

This shot demands precision. Harper spots a right slope in the surface and putts. The ball breaks left, and then right, but it strays six feet away from the hole: “Terrible putt, It’s all over,” he thinks.

He is shaking: six-foot putt for a spot in Nationals. His opponent misses; He makes his shot. The tournament official approaches and says, “Congratulations, let’s go back and talk about your flights” to then 17-year old James Harper.

Harper, 20, a returning sophomore and captain for the Men’s Golf team has been leading the team with a 77.3 average score.

“Being a captain is a responsibility; you’ve got to earn trust, set an example, and live up to it everyday. I try and do that,” Harper said.

Erwyn Lam, 24, sophomore, said that Harper has great leadership qualities: he is encouraging, challenges his teammates, and leads by example.

“He is the only one to make it to nationals, but he is very humble when it comes to his star power,” Lam said. “He doesn’t boast that he is the best player. He is not so much an individual player as much as golf is an individual sport. He values team dynamics a lot.”

Riley Evans, freshman, said Harper organizes practices, ensures the team is focused throughout practice, and encourages the team to constantly improve. The golf team’s next match is Monday at Desert Island CC. f

Evans said the team is optimistic about the season but, once Harper leaves, it will be difficult to “fill in his shoes.”

“He has been a good pillar as a friend. For me, as an international student, it took me awhile to get used to life around here.” Lam said. “He helped me with fitting in, and showing me around; he is a very good team captain and a great friend.”