From The Rough

Dr Catana Starks, a committed swim coach at Tennessee State University, is asked to start the school’s first men’s golf team. She’s confident and determined, but discovers she has nearly no funding and only one willing recruit, Craig, a talented but shy former caddy who lacks belief in himself.

Undeterred, Coach Starks reaches well beyond her comfort zone. She travels the globe, finding unlikely young golfers to join the team: Edward from London, Cameron from Australia, Ji‑Kyung from South Korea, and Bassam from Algeria. Each carries lessons, struggles, and hidden strengths.

Training begins with misunderstandings, clashes and distrust. Edward questions her, Bassam battles frustration, Ji‑Kyung keeps his distance, and Craig freezes under pressure. But slowly, through personal conversations and shared dinners, Starks connects with each player. Her honest conversations about choice, confidence, and the cost of compromise reach them deeply.

The team’s first big test arrives at the PGA National Collegiate Minority Championship. Craig staggers under stress, Cameron’s allergic reaction removes him from the competition, and the outcome seems doubtful. Yet united, the players rally. Edward and Ji‑Kyung support Craig through the final hole, orchestrating a clever distraction leading to an unexpected win.

The victory not only saves the program but also affirms the power of belief, teamwork, and an unconventional leader.