The Long Game

Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that can fuse the spine, turning flexibility into rigidity. Crohn's disease is an unpredictable digestive disorder marked by pain, fatigue, and frequent hospital visits.

Most people will never face the daily challenges of either. Will Schwartz knows both all too well.

The sophomore Statesmen men's golfer from Florissant, Missouri has battled both conditions while pursuing his passion for the sport. That passion began early.

"I picked up golf in elementary school after watching my parents play," Schwartz said. "My dad coached me, and they've supported me through everything. They go to every tournament they can."

He played every chance he got growing up, but the transition to college brought new hurdles. During his freshman year, flare-ups from his conditions often kept him off the course.

"It's tough watching the team play and not being able to always join," he said.

Schwartz was able to compete in some reserve varsity competitions as a freshman last year, tallying a personal-best two-round score of 172.

The setbacks continued into the summer of 2024, when Schwartz underwent surgery and was sidelined for the entire fall semester.

"I came here for sports, and missing that was a struggle," he admitted.

Even while unable to compete, Schwartz remained close to the program, thanks to the support of his coaches.

"They gave me a coaching role during the fall. It was really cool and kept me involved with the team," Schwartz said. "My new coach, Darin Fisher, is great. He really helped me when I was sick, taking me to hospitals and the doctor."

As he recovered, he focused on returning to form for the spring season.

"I was so excited to come back and play," Schwartz said. "I love the sport, and being back, practicing and playing, has been great."

His comeback began modestly. He shot a 170 in his first varsity competition and trimmed five strokes off that score with a 165 in his second outing.

With each round, Schwartz set his sights higher.

"I want the team to succeed and, personally, to continue to grow, maybe even get under 80," he said.

In his first three-round invitational, he posted a 253, and later competed in a round at the Heart of America Athletic Conference Championship.

Throughout his journey, Schwartz credits his teammates for lifting him up.

"They were always there to talk," he said. "It was just a really great support group, making me laugh, and helping me feel better when I'm on the course. They helped me stay in a positive mindset, and I really appreciated that."

Beyond the competitive side, that bond has become a defining part of his college experience.

"We hang out all the time and we're always on the course," Schwartz said. "My teammates are so competitive, and they make me want to be better. I hate losing to them."

He's focused on continuing to grow in every area.

"Trying to play as good of golf as I can," he said with a smile. "And getting a degree, of course."

As Schwartz continues his academic and athletic career at William Penn, he remains committed to his Biology major and hopes to pursue a career in conservation after graduation. 

Whether on the course, in the classroom, or in life, Schwartz is focused on something greater than just a single season.

For him, it's all about the long game.