GREENE COUNTY
Lake Oconee Academy senior golfer Drew Williams signed a letter of intent last Wednesday in front of friends and family to continue his career on the greens at the University of Tennessee-at Martin.
Williams – who has attended LOA since the second grade – has been a part of three state golf titles already. The UT-Martin signee and the Titans are going for a fourth straight this upcoming spring.
LOA athletic director and co-head golf coach Chris Ingle spoke first at the signing ceremony.
“We couldn’t ask for a kinder, gentler, and more polite young man than Drew,” Ingle shared. “He’s only gotten better over the years. I didn’t know that could happen. What a great young man.”
Ingle and Williams both arrived at Lake Oconee Academy at the same time, so their relationship is strong.
“He always stops by my office to say hello,” Ingle continued. “I always see him on the golf course with a smile, and he hits the ball right down the middle every time. Literally. I got to find that out a couple of years ago when I filled in for one of the coaches. But just what an unbelievable young man and student he is. We know he’s going to be successful at whatever he does.”
Williams follows in the footsteps of several of his former teammates in continuing to play at the next level.
Two years ago, Rylan Black signed to play golf at Kennesaw State. Earlier this year in February, Maddox Cantrell (Covenant College), Halsey Bosart (Berry College), Rhett Smith (University of North Georgia), and Colby Bennett (University of North Georgia) all signed letters of intent as well.
The girls’ team also has several golfers competing at the next level, so Williams is continuing that tradition.
Williams spoke at his ceremony with his family by his side. First, he thanked them for always being there to support him but also credited Ingle and former coach Ricardo Patton for his success.
Williams also highlighted why he chose to be a Skyhawk in the first place, citing that he fell in love with the campus, coaching staff, and future teammates while “feeling at home” during a visit.
“During my visit to UT-Martin (head) coach (Austin) Swafford preached that faith and character are important,” Williams said. “After I heard that, it made me feel confident he was the right coach for me. I knew where I wanted to spend the next four years of my life. I (also) knew that UT-Martin was the right school for me. It was a welcoming environment for my family during my visit.”
Williams is one of five UT-Martin signees in the 2024 recruiting class and one of two from the Peach State, with the other being Cole Isbell from North Forsyth High School in Cumming.
Now, Williams looks forward to his senior season and spending time playing with the Titans.
“My time here (at Lake Oconee Academy) has helped me grow as both a player and a person,” Williams said. “My teammates have made me want to work harder and become the best version of myself.”