To some people, golf is a nice way to relax.

However, to Hunter Hamrick, golf could be considered a way of life.

Hamrick, who was born in Troy, is now a sophomore at the University of Alabama showing what he can do with a set of clubs.

As a freshman at Alabama, Hamrick was named to the honorable mention PING All-American list, played in all of Alabama’s tournaments during the 2008-2009 season and finished in the top 10 twice as well as six top-20 finishes.

Before his time with the Tide, Hamrick was playing golf at Montgomery Academy and having much of the same success.

He played in the 2006 U.S. Amateur, and was the young player in the field at 16, he won the 2007 Blue-Gray High School Invitational and won three individual state titles and five team state titles.

“It has taken a lot of work to get to this position, as well as some sacrifices,” Hamrick said.

“So many people helped me along the way. It’s been a blessing – I believe it’s my God-given talent.”

Of the many things that the young golfer has been able to accomplish, there are two things that stand out to him.

“Being an All-American as a freshman was something I was very proud of,” he said. “It’s not done very often.”

“As far as my biggest win, it would probably be my latest one [the Western Refining College All-American Classic].”

Hamrick competed in the event, which took place in El Paso, Texas last week, with 32 of the top collegiate players from around the nation.

Past winners of the event include PGA professional David Duval, Davis Love III and Tiger Woods.

“It was a lot of fun to be a part of it,” Hamrick said.

“I don’t think I ever really got nervous, until the very end – but I think I play better with the nerves.”

Besides playing with nerves on occasion, Hamrick said he has one thing in mind while on the course.

“The main thing I really think about is, taking it one shot at a time,” Hamrick said. “I don’t try to get to caught up in what I have to do afterwards.”

“I usually have an idea of what I would like to do with a shot and do my best to make sure it happens.”

Even though some may be content with what Hamrick has done on the course, he is not.

“I always want to get better,” he said.

“I want to be known as one of the best collegiate golfers in the country.

As far as playing on the next level on the PGA Tour, the sophomore said he isn’t thinking that far ahead.

“It’s an ultimate goal of mine, but not too worried about it,” he said.

“If I can, that’s great but what I am concerned about now is being the best I can be now.”