When tees off at the 2024 Paris Olympics, he'll represent more than just his home country of Canada. The professional golfer also will be carrying the pride of ºÚÁÏÍø.
"It's an incredible feeling," Conners said of his Olympic qualification. "It's certainly something I've been working hard to achieve this year and the last few years as well."
For Conners, this will be his second Olympic appearance, a feat made possible by golf's relatively recent return to the Games. The sport was reintroduced in 2016 after a century-long absence, opening up a new dream for aspiring golfers like Conners.
Reflecting on his college years, Conners spoke fondly of his time at Kent State, as the decision to become a Golden Flash was influenced heavily by the renowned coach Herb Page and the strong Canadian presence on the team. He graduated with honors from Kent State in 2014, earning a bachelor of science degree in actuarial mathematics.
"It was really one of the easiest decisions that I had to make once I was offered a scholarship to play golf at Kent State," Conners recalled. "I was all in and I couldn't have been happier looking back at my decision and really enjoyed my experience there."
During his time at Kent State, Conners was part of a golf program that has become a powerhouse in collegiate athletics. Under Page's guidance, Conners and his teammates elevated Kent State's reputation in the golfing world. A pivotal moment came in Conners' sophomore year when the team made it to the final eight in the NCAA championships.
"Cementing our place as a really top contender to win the NCAAs and be a top team in college golf was a very proud moment for me."
"The best thing that Herb Page did for me as a student-athlete was hold me accountable for working hard, being organized, and just doing the right things," Conners said. These lessons have stayed with him throughout his professional career.
Conners also highlights the supportive environment at Kent State, particularly for international students.
"It was really cool to be able to connect with some of them apart from just the golf team," he said, recalling his involvement in the Student Athlete Council. "It was just really easy to feel comfortable. And the athletic program is just a big family."
PGA Impact
Kent State's impact on Conners extends beyond just his personal success. The university has become a breeding ground for professional golf talent, with Conners being one of three PGA Tour players from his Kent State team. This legacy is not lost on Conners, who speaks proudly of the university's growing reputation in the golf community.
As he prepares for the Olympics, Conners carries the memories of his time at Kent State – from the challenging courses at Windmill Lakes to the unique black squirrels that made him feel at home. His journey from a promising collegiate golfer to an Olympian is a testament to the quality of Kent State's athletic program and the university's ability to nurture world-class talent.
When asked what advice he would give to his younger self, Conners' response encapsulates the spirit that has driven him from Kent, Ohio, to the international stage:
"Work hard. You can achieve your dreams and just have fun along the way."