PARKER ROSE – Stigler
The similarities between the game of golf and everyday life are more than what many may understand. For Parker Rose, a member of the men’s golf program at Northeastern State University, the two opportunities present daily challenges to achieve your desired goals.
“Just like the book says, golf is not a game of perfect and neither is life,” said Rose, referencing the book written by Dr. Bob Rotella. “You have to make the best of every situation. Block out distractions, keep a level head and curb your emotions. For me, it’s all about staying consistent and having fun. Wake up everyday, make the best of it and try to enjoy the moment.”
A 2019 graduate from Stigler where he earned Oklahoma All-State golf honors after qualifying for the state tournament every year, Rose first decided to chase his dreams with another school before “coming home” to the place where his uncle, Kyle Cofer had played collegiately.
“Coach (Scott) Varner had recruited me out of high school and I also had a lot of friends going to school here. When we reconnected two years later, his message was still the same built around becoming part of a family that wants everyone to succeed,” Rose said with a smile. “It’s a group, the guys and girls teams, that encourages each other yet still holds one another accountable, both on and off the golf course. And no matter the day’s circumstances or challenges, you never give up.”
A communication studies major on the Tahlequah campus, Rose cherishes the benefits of support from his professors as he completes his classroom assignments.
“As a golfer, the travel to play in tournaments forces you to miss a lot of in person class time. The instructors at NSU truly understand their students’ needs and everyday challenges and they will go above and beyond to create ways for every student to make the grade,” Rose said with a voice of conviction and followed with a laugh.
“They all want you to be successful. One of my instructors said he was glad not to see me in class because that meant that I made the team.”
