As the Masters golf championship at Augusta National began, Krew Thompson dreamed of an opportunity to one day play the famed golf venue amidst a handpicked foursome.

“If I could choose any place to play, it would have to be Augusta National, I mean who wouldn’t,” replied the freshman member of the Muskogee Roughers golf team. “My foursome would include my favorite golfer, Collin Morikawa. He is a humble golfer while also being one of the best golfers in the world. Then, of course, I’d choose Rory (McIlroy) and Tiger (Woods).”

While his bucket list golf dreams may come true in the future, the 5-foot-5 Thompson stays in the moment focused on improving his golf talents one hole at a time.

“The toughest thing about playing golf is staying positive after a bad shot or bad hole,” admits Thompson. “I try to remember the advice from coach (Brad) Huddleston. ‘Always keep your head up because once you put your head down you have accepted defeat.’ It helps me to remember to never give up and always keep fighting.”

Thompson has quickly learned the scoring advantages gained through his short game and the results earned while swinging his 9-iron, his favorite club. Simultaneously, Krew understands what matters most on the golf course as well as in life.

“Loyalty and hard work are a must to succeed no matter what challenge you encounter. That requires being competitive to not just play better but to be a better person everyday,” replied Thompson. “It’s a trait my mom (Kelly) has demonstrated for me by her everyday example. She has taught me to never give up and to always try to be a better athlete and a even better person.”

It’s a personal trait demonstrated by Thompson as a definition for the importance of character.

“Character is what you do-your actions speak loud and clear,” he explained in a sincere voice. “That includes being friendly and encouraging to others. I try to talk to everybody while trying to influence them to be a better person and have a good day.”

Altogether, the efforts and actions of Krew Thompson continue to model the “Muskogee Way.”