Athlete Spotlight: James Wood golfer Drake Reese

James Wood High School 16-year-old junior

Sport: Golf

Parents: Chad and Heather Reese

Hometown: Winchester

What do you love about golf?: I just love that it’s different every day. Anything can happen on a golf course.

Most memorable moment in golf: This past spring, we were getting ready to tee off, and it started snowing like crazy (in James Wood’s season-opening match against Sherando on April 1 at Shenandoah Valley Golf Club). I got to experience something I never experienced before. It was a lot harder [than normal].

Most embarrassing moment in golf: We were starting out, and I hit a perfect drive, and I went and chunked my second shot into a tree this past spring at Shenandoah. It was hole No. 9 on Red.

Most difficult moment in golf: There was another match this spring where I triple-bogeyed the first hole on the Red at Shenandoah. It was mentally tough to come back and try and shoot a really good round.

Three people you can have dinner with, dead or alive: Jordan Spieth; he’s one of my favorite golfers, and I just really admire what he can do. I like Spieth’s putting a lot. Ben Roethlisberger; he’s always been one of my favorite players. He’s been really loyal [to the Pittsburgh Steelers] and I think it would be really cool to meet him. He’s funny. And Arnold Palmer; he’s one of my favorite golfers of all time.

Biggest athletic influence: Jordan Spieth. He influences the way I play the game with his creativity and his confidence.

Favorite teacher: Mrs. [Caitlin] Gilmore. She teaches eighth-grade science at Frederick County Middle. She made everything fun and was a really funny person. She was relaxed.

Favorite athlete: Jordan Spieth

Favorite sports team: Pittsburgh Steelers

Favorite movie: “Tin Cup”

Favorite TV show: “Justified”

Favorite song: “God’s Country” by Blake Shelton

Favorite food: Clams

Worst thing you’ve eaten: Sweet potatoes

Plans after high school: I hope to attend a four-year college and major in engineering. I just like problem-solving.

— Compiled by Robert Niedzwiecki