Golf as a global language

When Sam Finley packed up his golf clubs and travelled from the fairways of Alberta, Canada to the greens of Aotearoa New Zealand, he was chasing more than just sunshine and scenery.

“New Zealand is a beautiful country with some of the friendliest people in the world and I’ve always wanted to visit it. It looked similar to Canada, just not as cold!" he says.

Sam is currently spending a semester studying animal science and clinical psychology at Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University. While his studies keep him busy, Sam also balances life as a student-athlete through Massey’s Global Student Athlete (GSA) programme, where he represents the university in his chosen sport of golf.

“Playing a sport I love during my university education is truly a privilege. Doing it in a different country halfway around the world is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Sport holds the power to unite people worldwide, and this opportunity has proven just that.”

As a kinesiology (sport science) student at the University of Calgary, Sam already had a strong interest in sports science and physical health, but his semester at Massey offered the chance to study something different.

“I always loved science, especially biology, and growing up in a farming town, I’ve been surrounded by animals all my life. Being at Massey has provided the opportunity to explore animal science and combine my passions for the farming community and academics into a potential future career path.”

Golf, however, continues to be at the heart of Sam’s New Zealand experience. From his first round at 13 with his grandfather, the sport has shaped his approach to life and learning.

Through the GSA programme, Sam is a member at Manawatū Golf Club, New Zealand’s oldest golf course and just a short walk from Massey’s Manawatū campus. There, he receives weekly one-on-one coaching. According to the Club’s Head Golf Professional Alan Hyatt, Sam has made a strong impression.

“Sam has immersed himself within the club and made big strides technically, which is helping him to develop faster as a golfer. His enthusiasm and ability to take in what he is learning, and his development in such a short time, has been outstanding.”

While the Club’s primary goal through the GSA programme is to support student-athletes in developing their game, Mr Hyatt believes the greater success lies in the overall experience.

“We take pride in trying to enhance the student’s experience through golf - everything from coaching and playing, to making the student feel welcome and part of the Manawatū Golf Club. Of course, we hope that they leave here as a more accomplished golfer. However, what is more important for us is that they love the experience of being part of our club.”

An added bonus of Sam’s Manawatū Golf Club membership has been access to play some of New Zealand’s most iconic golf courses at local rates.

“So far, I’ve played three other courses and hope to check out a few more, especially Cape Kidnappers, before heading home,” Sam says.

Sam's New Zealand adventures haven’t been limited to golf. With his girlfriend, he’s explored the country through weekend getaways and a campervan tour of the South Island.

“New Zealand has breathtaking views and very friendly, welcoming people! It is extremely environmentally conscious and protective of its natural beauty, and it shows! The tap water tastes better than most bottled water worldwide!”

As for the future, Sam is keeping his options open. While he plans to return to Calgary to complete his final year of university, he’s excited about the paths that lie ahead. Whether he continues his studies in animal science, or pursues a career that combines sport and science, he is certain golf will remain a key part of his life.

“One thing is for sure - I will continue to golf and will take the lessons and experiences I learned from Massey and the Manawatū Golf Club with me to guide me in the future.”