Everyday Champion -- Rachael Fischer
May 3, 2012
Rachael Fischer attended the University of Portland to play collegiate golf. But when the school dropped its golf program, she was "devastated" and felt like everything she had worked for had gone "down the train." Fortunately for Fischer, and Oregon State, she was able to find a home in Corvallis with the Beavers.
Fischer is majoring in Civil Engineering and knows getting her degree from Oregon State will open doors that couldn't have been opened otherwise as a student-athlete who was able to graduate with one of the toughest majors at the university.
Her younger sister, Lauren, is also on the Oregon State women's golf team and Rachael is very pleased with the path it took her to become a Beaver, knowing it was all meant to be.
To learn more about Fischer and watch an interview with the Portland, Ore., native, please continue to ourbeavernation.com.
The following are questions Fischer answered before the start of the spring golf season.
When and where did you start playing golf?
"I started playing golf as a kid with my family growing up in Portland. My dad would take us out to ride the cart with him and take occasional swings. Eventually, I started to want to play on my own."
Who is the one person who has helped you the most in your golf career?
"The person who has helped me the most has been my dad. He has always been supportive, without pressuring me. He has been a constant influence on my game, from swing technique to mental improvement."
When and where did you get your first par?
"I don't remember when I got my first par, but I imagine I was probably around 10 or 11 years old."
When and where did you get your first birdie?
"Again, I don't remember exactly when I got my first birdie. Probably around 13 years old."
When and where did you get your first eagle?
"I do remember this. I was playing at a high school tournament in Hood River, Oregon. I was 15 and it was a short par-5 that I reached in two shots. I made a long 20-foot putt for a three."
Have you ever gotten a hole-in-one?
"Yes, I was 17, in my senior year of high school. I was playing a practice round for the state tournament at Trysting Tree Golf Club. It was the 17th hole, a par-3. It was the 27th of March, I was 127 yards away, I hit a 7-iron, and I was playing with a No. 7 Titlelist ball. Lucky #7!"
What's your favorite golf course and why?
"My favorite golf course would have to be Pacific Dunes at the Bandon Dunes Resort. It has beautiful ocean views and very distinct holes in a links style. Wind and rain just make it that much better, and more challenging."
What's the best shot you've ever hit?
"I don't feel I've ever hit a `best shot'. Not a single one that stands out in my mind as I have different favorites for different reasons."
Why did you choose to attend Oregon State?
"I chose to go to OSU because of opportunities provided in athletics and the high level engineering program. I like the campus size and community of students. A small school feel with a large population."
What do you like best about your teammates?
"We all have very different and distinct personalities that work cohesively as a single group. Everyone offers something distinct that makes the team atmosphere enjoyable."
What do you like best about your coaches?
"They are understanding a compassionate with what they do. They are competitive and want everyone on the team to do their best."
What do you like best about Corvallis?
"It's a small city that has easy access to nature and outdoor pursuits. It is beautiful all times of the year and there is usually something to do."
What do you like best about Trysting Tree?
"It has many different holes that keep play interesting. There are trees, sand traps and water hazards that add to the challenge and beauty."
What's the best course you've played in college golf?
"The ASU Karsten Course in Tempe, Arizona. It's very challenging to play and always in great shape."
Who is the most famous person you've played golf with?
"Any high-level college golfer. They are all famous in their own right."
Who would be in your dream foursome?
"Annika Sorenstam, Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Arnold Palmer and myself."
If you could play a different college sport at Oregon State, what would it be and why?
"I would play basketball. My second athletic love. I played in high school and it was very regarding in terms of learning discipline, leadership skills, and teamwork."
What are your team and individual goals for the spring season?
"Become better as a unit and go to the NCAA championships. Individually, I would like to qualify for all tourneys, break 70 and improve my mental game."
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