In less than a decade, Scott Langley has gone from winning PGA Junior Series events at Ballwin’s municipal course to being the low amateur at the 2010 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach. Last year, he was crowned the 2010 NCAA Men’s Golf Individual Champion as a college junior. As his college career comes to a close, Langley is hoping for another outstanding season—and a spot on the U.S. team in the 2011 Walker Cup. After that? The PGA awaits.
Who taught your first golf lessons?
When I was 10 or 11, I began going to Helen Kurtin at Family Golf & Learning Center in Kirkwood. She gave me a great basis for my future game. A few years later, I began seeing [Bellerive Country Club pro] Brian Fogt.
What was your first significant golf title?
When I was 12, I won a Gateway PGA nine-hole event at Ballwin Golf Course.
Why did you choose the University of Illinois?
There were a lot of factors. The coaching staff was key. It was close to home and a great school. The golf team plays a good schedule, and we travel south quite a bit. Also, the school was planning to complete an awesome indoor practice facility. Basically, it just felt comfortable.
When you’re competing, what do you focus on?
Trying to find a “swing thought” that works. But mostly I work on my preshot routine.
Do you have a favorite golf book?
I’ve read a couple of Bob Rotella’s books. They are great on the mental side of the game, learning how to focus. I also carry a copy of Ben Hogan’s Five Lessons in my bag. It’s a great book on what it takes to win.
What was your most memorable win?
Without a doubt, winning the NCAA Championship.
What event from last year’s U.S. Open will you tell your grandkids about?
On that Wednesday, I was fortunate enough to play a practice round with Tom Watson. Besides having my brother, Nick, as my caddie, I also was able to have my dad and stepdad walk inside the ropes with me. And when I finished my final round on Sunday and was walking off the 18th green, the gallery around the green gave me a standing ovation. That was pretty awesome.
What were your favorite holes at Pebble Beach?
The stretch from No. 4 through No. 10—probably the best stretch of holes anywhere, especially the seventh.
Which pro golfer do you emulate?
Steve Stricker. He’s an Illini grad and was great to me at the U.S. Open. He really helped me a lot. Here he is, one of the top 10 players in the world, and he’s spending time with a college guy.
What would be your ideal golf foursome?
Steve Stricker, Tom Watson, and my brother [winner of the St. Louis District Golf Association’s 2010 men’s championship].
Is there anything Nick does better than you?
He hits longer than I did at the same age.
What’s after graduation?
If I’m selected for the Walker Cup, I’ll wait before turning pro to play in those matches. After that, I’ll try to get sponsors’ exemptions to play in some events. Then, I would go to [the PGA’s] Q School and try to qualify for the tour.
Is being on tour scary or exciting?
It’s really ex-citing. Even on the tour, it’s still just golf.
