Winning Ugly: Lessons in Resilience From the Fairway

This past week, I won two golf club championships. On paper, that sounds like a dream. But here’s the truth: I didn’t play well in either event. In fact, leading up to them, I was battling the dreaded “shanks”—arguably the worst word in golf. (Shout out to Kevin Rhoads - the best golf coach out there - for talking me off the ledge and convincing me I could fix this issue before the events started)

There were moments I wanted to quit. Walk off. Throw in the towel. But something deep inside wouldn’t let me. That “something” comes from years as a collegiate athlete, where grit wasn’t optional—it was the standard.

College sport teaches you to compete even when everything feels off. To show up, fight for every point, and trust that the work you’ve put in will carry you when confidence wavers. This week was a reminder that resilience is often the real champion—not the swing, not the scoreboard.

Winning ugly is still winning. And the grit it takes to keep going when you’re at your worst is the same grit that carries student-athletes to thrive in the U.S. college system. That’s why I’m passionate about helping athletes find scholarships—not just to play a sport, but to build the resilience, discipline, and character that last a lifetime.

Because when the “shanks” show up—in sport, in studies, or in life—you’ll need that same inner voice that says: Don’t quit. Keep going.

Indian Peaks Golf Club

More Than a Number: Why I Value the Right Fit Over the Fast Dollar

In a world where performance is often measured by numbers-how many clients, how many deals, how much revenue - I'm here to flip the script.

As an agent, I don't chase volume for the sake of vanity. I chase impact.

For me, it's not about how many athletes I can sign in a year - it's about how many humans I can help find the "right fit".

A place where they can thrive both academically and athletically. A place that aligns with their values, their vision, and their version of success.

Too many agencies are all about the dollar. Fast wins. Quick placements. Big commissions. But what gets lost in that rush? The individual.

I believe in quality with purpose. Yes, I want to help as many student-athletes as possible, but not at the cost of integrity. Not at the cost of just placing them somewhere. My job is to coach them toward the right decision - even if that means fewer clients, longer timelines, or harder conversations.

Because this isn't just recruiting. This is a life decision. One that shapes identity, mindset, and future opportunities.

So when people ask me about results, I don't show them a spreadsheet. I show them stories of students who found schools that see them, coaches who believe in them, and programs where they're valued for more than just their stats.

That's what coaching through recruitment looks like.

That's the way of now.

Ready to stop chasing options and start choosing what's right?

If you're a student-athlete or a parent navigating the recruiting maze, let's have a conversation that's grounded in curiosity, honesty, and possibility.

Ready to find the right fit, not just any fit?

Not All Agents Are Created Equal

I spent 11 Years as a Division 1 Head Coach making real scholarship decisions. I'm giving you the exact insights from the other side of the table.

How TC4A is Different

🎓 REAL D1 COACHING EXPERIENCE

As a former NCAA Division I Head Coach for 11 years, I know what college coaches look for—because I was one. I will help your athlete stand out in a competitive recruiting landscape.

🔍 TRUTH OVER HYPE

Many agents stretch the truth. I don’t. I provide families with honest, transparent guidance rooted in experience—not empty promises.

🙌 ATHLETE-FIRST APPROACH

I don’t chase scholarships. I help athletes find programs where they’ll grow as players, students, and people.

🌐 LIFETIME OF RELATIONSHIPS

With 20+ years in high-performance coaching, I’ve built real relationships with college coaches across the U.S.—relationships your athlete can benefit from.

🧘 HOLISTIC GUIDANCE

From crafting outreach emails to handling nerves on visit day—I coach the whole person, not just the athlete.

🏆 RESULTS THAT SPEAK

I’ve helped athletes land spots at competitive schools with offers that match who they are—on and off the court.

💬 What Families Are Saying

🌟 “Finally—an honest, experienced guide in a world full of noise. TC4A actually cares about the athlete’s future.”

- Parent of a student-athlete

🌟 “Tina was always available, connected me with a wide range of schools, and helped me find the perfect fit. Her network and support made a huge difference!”

- Josefine Falster, University of South Florida Tennis

🌟 “Tina made the entire college process feel manageable and less overwhelming. Her support every step of the way was invaluable.”

- Luc Mascitti, Northwest Missouri State Tennis

🌟 “Tina was more than a mentor—she supported me as both a player and a person. Her honesty, humor, and guidance made the process enjoyable.” - Meagan Donovan, Washington & Lee Tennis

🌟 “Tina always responded quickly—no matter the time zone! Her support and advice helped me navigate the recruiting process with confidence.”

- Peyton McGahey, North Carolina Wesleyan Tennis

🌟 “Tina was always there—with answers, solutions, and support. Her care and guidance made the entire process stress-free and even enjoyable.”

– Filip Glov Møller, Hamilton College Tennis

🌟 “Tina guided me through every step of the college process with care and personal attention. Coming from Norway, I knew very little, but she made it easy—and made me feel like her top priority.”

– Milla Falster, Rollins College Tennis

🌟 “Tina has been a big help throughout the whole college process. She made sure I stayed on top of everything, answered all my questions, and helped me get in touch with some really good colleges that were a great fit for me. It definitely made the whole thing feel a lot more manageable. I’d definitely recommend Tina to anyone looking for help with the college recruitment process!”

– Kaia Jorgensen, Cal Poly Tennis

🚀 Let’s help your athlete transition to college sports with confidence. Visit

www.transitioncoach4athletes.com to learn more