ELMSFORD, N.Y. (June 21, 2006) - Andrew Giuliani, the 2005 Ike MGA Stroke Play champion, spoke with The Met Golfer editor Greg Midland about his year since winning the Ike, his season on the Duke University golf team and the state of his game.

 

G.M.: How did your year at Duke turn out?

A.G.: I had a lot of time to work hard on my game, and feel I made great progress. I didn’t play in as many tournaments as I would have liked to, but it was nice to be able to work outside on my game all winter. In past winters I would hit off mats three or four days a week, so it was a bonus this year to be able to work on my short game.

 

G.M.: Have you ever played Fresh Meadow (site of the 2006 Ike Championship)?  What were you impressions?

A.G.: I’ve played Fresh Meadow a few times. It’s a great course that has hosted big championships before, and I’m excited to see it again.

 

G.M.: What is the state of your game as you approach the Ike?

A.G.: I’ve been striking the ball well lately and my game feels really solid. I’ve worked hard the last few months and I can see it paying off. [Editor’s Note: Giuliani made it to the finals of the Havemeyer Memorial in May and finished T-5th at the Hochster Tournament on June 20.]

 

G.M.: What has been your preparation for the Ike?

A.G.: I’ve been playing some events, like the Havemeyer. Mostly I prepare for a tournament by hitting balls and working out. A few days before the event, I’ll stop working out, decrease my time on the driving range, and instead work more on my short game and putting.

 

G.M.: What clubs are in your bag?  Is there anything different since last year’s Ike?

A.G.: I have pretty much the same clubs in my bag as I had at last year’s Ike. The one change is that I have a new TaylorMade 3-wood instead of the Titleist one I had last year. My irons are Titleist 695CB, and I have the same putter.