Rising teen golf star Zac Oyston is working hard to achieve his ultimate dream.
“Without a doubt, it would be to become the number one player in the world," the 15-year-old golfer and Illawarra Academy of Sports (IAS) athlete said.
Zac's dad introduced him to golf, but the youngster didn't take the sport seriously at first. However, during Covid, his dad inspired him to gradually increase his time on the course.
“Soon I became a junior member of Wollongong Golf Club and that’s where I started developing my game to where it is now.”
When he was younger, Zac took part in team rather than individual sports.
“I played soccer and baseball, both team sports, so the idea of an individual sport was unique,” Zac said.
“But I found joy through practising when I wanted and endless competing to get better.”
Joining IAS has marked a milestone in Zac's sporting career. He appreciates the wealth of practical instruction on offer at the academy: from tailored gym programs and nutritional guidance to media training and more – all part of a holistic approach that transcends conventional coaching.
“Joining IAS was a great decision and a lot of it came from the idea of being a team which I liked,” Zac said.
While many young golfers look up to pros such as Phil Mickelson and Jason Day, Zac finds fulfilment in watching high-level competition rather than focusing on individual players.
“I can definitely say the high level of competition at each event not only inspired me to become the best I can be, but showed me a positive way in doing so."
Zac has already achieved significant sporting success: he won the Boys 13 Years Division at the NSW State Championship in 2022, earned an overall runner-up position at the 2023 Illawarra Junior Masters and a memorable 2nd place finish in the 2023 International Sub Junior Classic in Hunter Valley.
“This event definitely sticks out as I led for two rounds,” Zac said.
“To be in contention for a win was a huge eye-opener.”
A character trait among young IAS athletes is their humble acknowledgment of the necessity to enhance their skills. Zac shares this mindset, aspiring to showcase his improvement through winning.
“Definitely to win is a main goal,” Zac said.
“Not only to feel my game is on track but to gain confidence for years to come.
“Using the high-level coaching I'm currently getting and working with my team around me, like sports psychologist, technical coaching and gym coaching.”