Q & A with John Jackopsic
November 03, 2014 | Men's Golf
Chestnut Hill, Mass. -
John Jackopsic is a senior at Boston College and has been on the golf team since his freshman year. The Connecticut native is enrolled in the College of Arts and Sciences has continuously been a strong force on the golf team every season thus far in his career. Earlier this season at the Hartford Hawk Invitational, John finished tied for 11th place and was BC’s top finisher. Here is a chance to learn a little more about John Jackopsic.
Why did you choose BC?
I chose Boston College because of what it could offer me in the combination of athletics and academics. I knew I wanted to go somewhere I could play golf, and play right away as well. I had the opportunity to do that here, with the addition of being able to play against some of the top competition in the country by being in the ACC. Obviously, BC’s academics speak for themselves and the alumni network is another great bonus, especially in the way of formulating relationships for career support, in and out of athletics, after I graduate.
What kind of things do you do to train on and off season? How much time is spent in the weight room versus on the golf course or practice greens?
During the season, we practice just about every day for three hours or so at Blue Hill Country Club in Canton. On top of that, I try to spend additional three or four hours in the gym to stay fit and strong. In season weight work is more about maintenance and out of season is more about getting stronger.
What are your hopes and/or expectations for this season?
I think we really have a chance to do some special things this year, being that we returned everybody and added three great freshmen that all have a chance to play right away. We have depth this year, and are utilizing it, which we haven’t done in the past. I think our goal is the same every time we play, and that’s to win. It’s not going to happen every time, that’s the nature of our sport, but if that’s not the goal, and then you shouldn’t be playing. With that said, I think our end goal is to get into the NCAA tournament. It’s something we’ve talked about since I got here, and this is definitely our best shot at it.
What is it like to be a member of the golf team and a student-athlete at BC?
It’s been an experience that has certainly shaped my growth more than perhaps any other thing I have been through. There’s been plenty of conflict and struggle, but the brotherhood of the guys is something I wouldn’t trade for any amount of success. They’re my best friends, and I think the difficulties we’ve been through have only strengthened that.
What is the best memory you have from being on the team at BC?
It’s hard to point out a specific memory over the last three plus years. I would love to point towards our greatest success, but some of the best memories are from just casual times that we’ve had together. Every year has been so different, but I think that’s part of what has allowed us to grow and given us a chance to be successful this year.
What has been your favorite course or part of the country to play at?
This is nearly impossible for me to answer. I’ve had the opportunity to play nearly every great public access facility on the east coast with my Dad, which makes it all the more special. I also got to spend some time in California this summer, and was able to play Harding Park in San Francisco, Trump National L.A. and Torrey Pines in San Diego. The great thing about golf is that each region offers something different in the way of architecture and atmosphere, so I try my best to appreciate them all for their uniqueness. With that said, I would probably say the Carolinas are my favorite region. I love the not too extreme temperature combined with the high pine trees and red pine straw along the ground.
What is your major and what do you hope to be doing in 5 years after graduation?
I do plan to try and play after school, and that is certainly the goal for where I will be five years from now. With that being said, I know it’s not all that likely. I am a communications and philosophy double major and want to get involved in journalism or broadcasting with a focus on athletics. My main concern is to not be locked in to one specific place when I graduate. I want to travel; I want to see the world. And I think it would be great if I could do that via my work.
