From Multi-Sport Athlete to Pro Golfer: James Nicholas's Journey

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James’ Multi-Sport Journey From Yale Football to Professional Golf

Growing up as the oldest of five children, James played nearly every sport available to him. He participated in swimming and diving, football, basketball, tennis, hockey, lacrosse and soccer. His parents loved sports and introduced their children to a wide range of activities, while James and his siblings pushed one another through backyard competitions and time spent on the same teams.

James entered high school planning to play football in the fall, hockey in the winter and lacrosse in the spring. However, he broke his collarbone while playing football and then broke it again during hockey season. When he sought clearance to play lacrosse, the school nurse suggested that the 14-year-old choose golf as a more leisurely spring sport.

Although James had not played much competitive golf, he had access to a club while growing up in New York and regularly played during the summer. He joined the golf team and qualified for the state championship as a freshman, shooting approximately 87 or 88. While it was not a heroic performance, the experience showed him how much he enjoyed golf and competition.

From that point forward, football, hockey and golf became his three primary sports. When it was time to apply to college, he submitted applications to approximately 47 schools, pursuing opportunities in hockey and football rather than golf. He ultimately received the chance to play both football and golf at Yale.

James viewed Yale as an opportunity to prepare for his future, attend a great university, grow as a person and play on an exceptional college golf course. He began his collegiate career with the football team but left the sport after one year and committed to golf.

His experience on the Yale football team differed significantly from high school. He had been accustomed to playing multiple positions and rarely leaving the field, but college brought together the best players from many high schools. At strong safety, James found himself behind Foyer Lukon on the depth chart and did not believe he would surpass him.

At the same time, James’ love for football was fading. Hockey had always been his greatest passion and strongest sport, and he initially planned to walk onto Yale’s hockey team after leaving football. He also considered pursuing hockey after college.

A spring break golf trip changed that direction. Through Yale alumni connections, the team played Cypress Point, Pebble Beach, NPCC, Spyglass and SFGC. The experience convinced James to commit fully to golf. He improved significantly during his time at Yale and eventually turned the sport into a professional career.