Learned how to play golf from his father, Bob, while growing up a block away from Aurora CC. Grandparents have been members at the club since the 1970s, and his parents joined in 1990.

Worked in the build shop at Club Champion as a club bender from November 2020 through April 2021. Estimates he bent nearly 20,000 clubs in that span.

Worked as a ShotLink scorer during the Sunday singles matches for the 2012 Ryder Cup at Medinah CC. Said it was the loudest he ever heard a golf course.

Was a two-time varsity letterwinner on the basketball team in high school (Marmion Academy) and was an all-area selection as a senior (2008-09).

Played collegiately at Northern Illinois for four seasons (2009-13), with the highlight of his career being a victory at the 2013 Jim West Intercollegiate at TPC Craig Ranch, which he won on the third playoff hole.

Won the 2013 Chicago District Golf Association Amateur Championship.