HITTING THE COURSE LATER THIS MONTH FOR THE INVITED CELEBRITY CLASSIC (INVITEDCELEBRITYCLASSIC.COM), DEMARCUS WARE IS ONE TO WATCH.
PHOTO COURTESY OF INVITED CELEBRITY CLASSIC
When did you start playing golf? What made you decide to start playing?
I started playing golf after my football career ended. As a pass rusher, I had to think about so many little things to be successful—technique, formation, the other team’s personnel, tendencies, and I didn’t have a lot of time to process all of that in the moment of a play, maybe 3-4 seconds. Golf gives me the same feeling. I focus on the win, the distance, the lie, should I use this club or that club. It’s the only sport I’ve found that reminds me of my mental stimulation and challenges with football.
What’s been the most challenging adjustment?
Understanding the small details that can make a difference in your swing or round. I think most golfers can relate to this—you know what you should do; it’s just hard to be consistent and do it right every time.
What can fans expect when they come out to watch you, other celebrities, and the professionals during the Invited Celebrity Classic?
Fans will have a blast seeing some of the best players in the world hit incredible shots. It’s hard not to be amazed by what the PGA TOUR Champions players can do on the course. There are a few celebrities that can hang with them, too. The biggest thing fans will notice is how much fun we all have while competing. There aren’t many moments during the Invited Celebrity Classic that you won’t see me with a smile on my face. It’s an excellent experience for everyone involved - golf is for everyone, from the professionals to the celebrities to adults and young children watching. Golf is for everybody, and I’m excited to compete again this year.
Who would be your dream foursome on the course?
Confirmed participants are still rolling in, but right now, I would say Darren Clarke, Vijay Singh, Emmitt Smith and myself.
Which makes you more nervous: Playing in the Super Bowl or trying to make a 4-foot putt with a full gallery watching you.
Trying to make an essential putt with people watching me for sure. I can make an impact on the football field. When I get to the quarterback, I’m not going to miss it. Plus, you have that noise and that energy of 100,000 fans—that’s second nature. But in golf, so many elements can impact your swing, your results, and how you finish the competition. And it’s so quiet as you’re trying to focus. Everybody’s eyes are on you; they all think they could do it better than you. It’s more challenging than rushing the quarterback.
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