Meet Our Golf Mentors
Better Together is excited to announce its sport-specific mentorship program. Athletes can be matched with a golf mentor who plays at the collegiate level. Mentors can help the student-athlete navigate their physical, mental, and emotional journey and the challenges they will face on and off the course. Using resources from Better Together and their own experiences, Mentors will help the younger generation of athletes have the tools for a better chance of happiness and success.
Taylor Roberts
University of Florida, Graduate
Major: Education Sciences (Psychology and Education)
Sport: Golf
Athletic Background:
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From South Florida
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Yoga training in California this summer
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Transferred from Florida State to the University of Florida, had a positive experience
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Plans to attend Vanderbilt for counseling
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Competed at the highest level in college golf
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Finished her career as a golfer
Personal Statement:
“College changed me and helped me find a purpose outside of sports. I have been involved in crisis work these past few months and have a more profound purpose. My sister, a lacrosse player at Ohio State, is transferring due to a new coach. I have been passionate about athlete mental health since my freshman year, when I faced my own struggles during my transfer. I started a chapter of The Hidden Opponent (THO) at Florida specifically for student-athletes. I have also been involved in the SCC conference, focusing on increasing mental health support for athletes. My experiences have taught me the importance of prioritizing oneself, managing performance anxiety, and creating attainable goals.”
Jillian Barend
Siena College, Class of 2025
Major: Psychology
Sport: Golf
Athletic Background:
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North Attleboro High Boy's Golf Team Captain
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Siena College Women's Golf Captain
Personal Statement:
"I recently graduated from Siena University with my psychology degree. Mentors have always played an important role in my growth on and off the course. I know firsthand the mental strain that comes from the pressure of performing at a high level. Having someone to talk to who has been through a similar experience can be incredibly valuable. I hope I can be someone for you to lean on throughout your journey!"
Brendan O’Holleran
Middlebury College, Class of 2026
Major: Economics and Computer Science
Sport: Golf
Athletic Background:
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St. John's Prep Golf Team
Personal Statement:
"I played just about every sport possible growing up but focused on golf going into high school. I aimed to play at either the Ivy or NESCAC level and am now a junior on the Middlebury Golf Team. I have absolutely loved my experience and am very glad with my decision to be in the NESCAC. It is a very competitive league with a strong emphasis on academic success as well. "
Morgan Smith
Georgetown University 23'-24'
University of Georgia 24'-26'
Major: Housing Management and Policy major with Minors in General Business and Sports Management. Planning on pursuing a Masters Degree.
Sport: Golf
Athletic Background:
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2× Boys High School Golf Captain at Westford Academy
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2022 Mass Golf Girls Player of the Year
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2022 & 2024 Massachusetts Women’s Amateur Champion
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2023 & 2024 New England Women’s Amateur Champion
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7 USGA championships, including the 2023–2025 U.S. Women’s Amateur
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Runner‑up at the 2024 Illini Invitational (-10; 71–69–66)
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Competed in the inaugural St Andrews Collegiate Invitational on Golf Channel (2023)
Personal Statement:
"My name is Morgan Smith, and I’m from Westford, MA. I grew up in a family of golfers, which made it easy for me to fall in love with the game—what started as something we did together quickly grew into a true passion of mine.As the oldest of three girls, I was the first in my family to go through the recruiting process. While it was an exciting experience, it was also overwhelming at times because everything was so new for us. I often wished I had someone who had already been through it to help break it all down and make it easier to understand.My hope now is to be that person for someone else—offering guidance, clarity, and support throughout the process—just like I’ve always tried to do for my younger sisters.”