Maple Grove's Kelly O'Brien going for third trip to state golf meet

Star Tribune

Kelly O’Brien

Last update: May 13, 2008 - 5:40 PM

Kelly O'Brien holds the state's fifth-best scoring average among girls in Class 3A golf, shooting an average of 78 per round. A junior at Maple Grove, she's already been to state twice as an individual and will try for a third trip a week from today at the Section 6 tournament at Ridges at Sand Creek in Jordan. While preparing for a practice round there last week, O'Brien spoke with the Star Tribune's Brian Stensaas.

Q How did you first get involved with golf?

A My older brother Ryan was always a top golfer. He was the one who inspired me to take up the game. I really took it from him. I fell in love with the game. I owe it all to my brother.

Q What did you learn from your brother?

A He always had a good attitude about the game and was always so into it. He was positive about golf, never letting the little things get to him. He taught me to practice every day and that's the main thing. Never give up.

Q How was getting back to state for you last spring?

A Um, it was an experience you could say [laughs]. It's didn't go over too well (she tied for 27th) and this year I hope to get there and win it. We'll see how that goes.

Q It was nice to be back there, though?

A Yeah. I made it as an eighth-grader and then lost in a section playoff to one of my teammates (Steph Kreb) the year after that. I love competing at state. It's a great time.

Q What's your opinion to the MSHSL switching to three classes for golf?

A I don't think it will change things. It will just open it up a little bit more.

Q Class 3A will stay at Bunker Hills in Coon Rapids. Do you like that course?

A It's really long. It rewards you for distance, and you have to have your iron shots on target. If you keep your distance in play, and have good putting of course, you're on your way.

Q What's your biggest strength and weakness on the golf course?

A My short game is my strength. I have a lot of creativity and a lot of tricks in my bag. That along with my solid fundamentals, which is essential, is good. I need to work on my driver -- getting more distance. Hopefully the long ball will come.

Q What are some of those tricks in your bag?

A I'll use anything from a 5-iron to a 7-wood around the green. It's all about being creative and seeing what works.

Q I heard you've been selected to participate in a Minnesota vs. Wisconsin tournament this summer

A I got a letter in the mail from the Minnesota Junior PGA about it. I think they select girls based on their scoring average. It's a match-play tournament with I think around 16 girls per team. This will be my first year in it. It should be a fun experience.

Q There's always a border rivalry with Wisconsin. Are you looking forward to defeating some girls from the east?

A I'm excited. It should be a good time. Hopefully we'll kick their butts!