Sept. 15, 2005

The South Carolina golf team welcomes four freshmen to its roster this fall. USCsports.com has already featured Baker Elmore, Florian Fritsch and Allen Koon and today’s subject is the fourth freshman, Mark Silvers. Silvers joins the Gamecocks from Savannah, Ga. To learn more about Silvers, read on…

Why did you choose to attend the University of South Carolina?
The University of South Carolina offered the best combination of top quality golf and academics. Coach Blackmon runs a top-notch golf program where I know that my game will improve while receiving a fine education as well. My teammates are all fine people and are committed improving the team.

How did you spend your summer?
I spent my summer playing in tournaments and making a few swing adjustments. I became very good friends with my teammates and worked hard on my golf swing.

What are the biggest adjustments you expect to have to make in moving from the high school ranks to the college ranks?
After playing with many college players this summer, I realized that the biggest adjustment I will have to make is improving my short game. This was the main difference that I noticed, and I will work extensively to take my short game to the next level.

What is your favorite golf course that you have played and why?
My favorite golf course that I have played is Merion. I would have to say it is the hardest course that I have played, yet it was very fair. It was difficult not because it was very long or had water everywhere, but because of the design and the premium it places on ball striking. It was in perfect shape and gave off the feel of something special.

What is the best part of your golf game?
The best part of my game is my ball striking. Even when I am uncomfortable with my swing, I have the ability to hit the ball in the middle of the club face. This, in turn, has allowed for plenty of distance off the tee and a consistent iron game.

Who has had the biggest influence on your golf career thus far?
My father has had the biggest influence on my golf career thus far. He was a great junior golfer and started me in the game. He taught me sound fundamentals and has supported me throughout my junior career.

What do you consider the biggest highlight of your golf career thus far?
The biggest highlight of my career thus far would be my performance in the US Junior. I had to make a 15-foot putt to force a playoff to get in the tournament, and then I birdied the 18th hole at the Olympic Club to ensure making the cut for match play. I then made it to the second round before losing in 19 holes.