James Nicholas (2017)

A deeper dedication to improving his game paid off for James Nicholas in 2017.

Golf had not always been the top priority for Nicholas. Growing up, there wasn’t a team sport in which he didn’t compete, leaving only summer evenings for a quick nine holes or time on the par-three course at Westchester Country Club alongside his grandfather or father, the two who introduced him to the game. But through the years, the sport he enjoyed in his spare time has become his greatest passion, leading to a heightened focus on golf and ultimately his rise to the top in 2017.

Nicholas’ outstanding season—highlighted by a tie for low amateur honors and fifth-place at the Met Open, a run to the semifinals of the Met Amateur, and a tie for fifth in the Ike—led to his capturing the coveted honor.

Nicholas began collecting points with a run to the semifinals of the Westchester Amateur. He led the Hochster Memorial before a final-nine 40 dropped him into a tie for third. The next week he tied for fifth in the MGA’s first major of the season, the 62nd Ike Championship at Century.

Staying strong the remainder of the season, Nicholas picked up points winning the Arcola Cup and with notable performances at MGA’s remaining majors; making it to the semifinals of the Met Am and finishing tied for Low Am at the Met Open.

Nicholas ultimately finished with 958 points, and returned for his junior season at Yale University. Upon receiving the honor, Nicholas graciously noted his family’s support of and influence on his golf game.