Rylan Hanks didn’t need long to realize golf was more than just a pastime. Introduced to the game by his father in sixth grade, Hanks immersed himself in it almost immediately, spending nearly every day on the course for a year. Somewhere in those early rounds, the game took hold.

“I played every day for about a year and fell in love with it,” Hanks said.

That early passion has developed into a steady, disciplined approach, one shaped by both physical growth and mental refinement. Hanks points to a key turning point in his development: a growth spurt that elevated multiple parts of his game. Increased club head speed and improved hand-eye coordination gave him new confidence, particularly off the tee.

But like many golfers, Hanks has learned that success isn’t just about mechanics. Managing the mental side of the game has become just as important. As someone who admits to overthinking, he has worked to simplify his approach.

“When I get to the first tee, I try to clear my mind and just play,” he said. “I’ve put in the work, so I trust it.”

That mindset becomes especially important after adversity. Hanks leans on a lesson from his father to stay grounded.

“‘So what, now what,’” he said. “You can’t change the last hole, but you can control the next one.”

Hanks also understands where rounds are truly won and lost. While power off the tee stands out, he believes the short game is what separates good players from great ones. His practice habits reflect that belief, often spending twice as much time on chipping and putting as he does on the driving range.

Challenges along the way, including difficult rounds at Wolfe Mountain, have reinforced the importance of adaptability and focus. Tight fairways and demanding conditions forced Hanks to adjust his typically aggressive style and think strategically.

Through it all, golf has shaped more than just his skill set. It has helped define his mentality.

“It’s taught me to stay calm and enjoy the game,” Hanks said.

When his high school career comes to an end, Hanks hopes his legacy goes beyond scores. He wants to be remembered as someone who competed hard, stayed positive, and made the game enjoyable for those around him.