Golf: Croudis keen to play for Otago before turning pro

Duncan Croudis is relishing the prospect of representing Otago after his time at college in the...
Duncan Croudis is relishing the prospect of representing Otago after his time at college in the United States. Photo by Gregor Richardson.

After graduating with a business degree majoring in finance from Iowa State University earlier this month, Duncan Croudis has returned to Dunedin to unveil his future plans.

Croudis (22) has decided to remain an amateur for the next 18 months and has made himself available for all Otago men's teams.

The decision is a fillip for Otago golf as Croudis will bring a wealth of golfing experience to teams after completing his golf scholarship at Iowa.

Croudis had an impressive resume before leaving for the United States, being unbeaten in three national interprovincial tournaments as well as winning the New Zealand under-19 title on the North Shore in 2009.

''I intend to turn professional at the end of next year, looking at attending Q-schools for the OneAsia tour, the China PGA Tour and the Australasian Tour,'' Croudis said.

''At present I am looking for some part-time work which will enable me to use the skills I picked up while at college.

''I feel this is very important as, if my golfing aspirations don't work out, I will have something to fall back on.''

Croudis is excited about the prospect of playing tournaments in Otago, New Zealand and Australia during the next year and a half.

''I am aware that Otago men's golf is getting stronger after the team made the Toro playoffs last year.''

Croudis is under no illusion that, with his previous record, he will walk into the Otago teams.

''There is quite a lot of depth in Otago at present and this will provide a challenge to make all teams. This will help me hone my skills and will provide me with the best build-up before giving professional golf a go next December.''

 

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