The Back of the Range

The guest on this episode of The Back of the Range is Matt Vogt, a dentist and accomplished mid-amateur golfer who earned one of the most memorable stories in 2025: qualifying for and competing in the U.S. Open at Oakmont. The conversation covers Vogt’s journey from a modest upbringing in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, to his college golf days at Butler University, and his later-life resurgence into competitive amateur golf. He recounts his U.S. Open Qualifying experience, the emotional significance of his late father during that run, and the whirlwind aftermath of suddenly finding himself part of golf’s biggest stage. Vogt offers candid reflections on balancing a demanding professional career in dentistry with elite-level amateur competition, sharing how he relies on supportive colleagues and flexible scheduling to make it work. He opens up about nerves, lessons learned, and the surreal experience of teeing off at Oakmont in front of thousands—a moment where adrenaline met disbelief. The discussion also touches on broader themes in amateur golf: the evolution of college recruiting, the rising standard of competition, the mid-amateur “fraternity,” and the ongoing debate about reinstated former professionals competing in mid-am events. The conversation ends lightheartedly, with banter about future tournaments like the Gasparilla Invitational and the Jones Cup, showing Vogt’s grounded personality and enthusiasm for competing with his peers. Matt Vogt - InstagramThe Back of the Range - All Access Subscribe to The Back of the Range Subscribe in Apple Podcasts and SPOTIFY!Also Subscribe in YouTube,   Google Play , Overcast, Stitcher  Follow on Social Media! Email us:   ben@thebackoftherange.comWebsite: www.thebackoftherange.com  Voice Work by Mitch Phillips 

On this episode, María José Marín shares her journey from a young golfer in Colombia to a successful collegiate athlete at the University of Arkansas. She discusses her heartwarming surprise visit to her family, her early experiences in golf, the structure of junior golf in Colombia, and the transition to college golf. Maria reflects on the importance of representing her country, the impact of winning the individual national championship, and her experiences with golf legends like Annika Sorenstam. She also shares insights on managing nerves during major tournaments and the essentials for traveling as a golfer. María José Marín - University of Arkansas Women's GolfThe Back of the Range - All Access Subscribe to The Back of the Range Subscribe in Apple Podcasts and SPOTIFY!Also Subscribe in YouTube,   Google Play , Overcast, Stitcher  Follow on Social Media! Email us:   ben@thebackoftherange.comWebsite: www.thebackoftherange.com  Voice Work by Mitch Phillips 

My guest on this episode is Kim Lewellen, the head coach of Wake Forest Women's Golf.  After two wins in the fall, they are poised to make another run at a National Championship.  We spoke about her start in coaching and what motivates her day in and day out for the Deacons.Kim Lewellen - Wake Forest Women's GolfThe Back of the Range - All Access Subscribe to The Back of the Range Subscribe in Apple Podcasts and SPOTIFY!Also Subscribe in YouTube,   Google Play , Overcast, Stitcher  Follow on Social Media! Email us:   ben@thebackoftherange.comWebsite: www.thebackoftherange.com  Voice Work by Mitch Phillips 

My guest on this episode is Nate Gahman, the 2025 Georgia Amateur Player of the Year.  Not only did he qualify for his third consecutive appearance at the U.S. Amateur, he also picked up the win at the Georgia State Open and the Palmetto Amateur.Nate Gahman - InstagramThe Back of the Range - All Access Subscribe to The Back of the Range Subscribe in Apple Podcasts and SPOTIFY!Also Subscribe in YouTube,   Google Play , Overcast, Stitcher  Follow on Social Media! Email us:   ben@thebackoftherange.comWebsite: www.thebackoftherange.com  Voice Work by Mitch Phillips 

My guest on this episode is Jeff Raedle from Sport Five, the organization behind the new White Sands Men's Golf Invitational. Some of the best amateurs in the world will be heading to The Bahamas in December to compete in paradise. Jeff shares all of the details on what we can expect! White Sands Bahamas Men's Invitational - Official WebsiteThe Back of the Range - All Access Subscribe to The Back of the Range Subscribe in Apple Podcasts and SPOTIFY!Also Subscribe in YouTube,   Google Play , Overcast, Stitcher  Follow on Social Media! Email us:   ben@thebackoftherange.comWebsite: www.thebackoftherange.com  Voice Work by Mitch Phillips 

My guest on this episode is Sam Jackson, the reigning South Carolina Amateur Champion. We spoke about the upcoming Palmetto Amateur, celebrating it's 50th year at Palmetto Golf Club.Sam Jackson - InstagramPalmetto Amateur - Official WebsiteThe Back of the Range - All Access Subscribe to The Back of the Range Subscribe in Apple Podcasts and SPOTIFY!Also Subscribe in YouTube,   Google Play , Overcast, Stitcher  Follow on Social Media! Email us:   ben@thebackoftherange.comWebsite: www.thebackoftherange.com  Voice Work by Mitch Phillips 

Our guest on this episode of The Back of the Range is David Inglis, head coach of Northwestern Men's Golf. We spoke about the upcoming Windon Memorial Classic at Knollwood Club. David Inglis - Northwestern Men's Golf The Back of the Range - All Access Subscribe to The Back of the Range Subscribe in Apple Podcasts and SPOTIFY!Also Subscribe in YouTube,   Google Play , Overcast, Stitcher  Follow on Social Media! Email us:   ben@thebackoftherange.comWebsite: www.thebackoftherange.com  Voice Work by Mitch Phillips

Our guest on this episode of The Back of the Range is Kiara Romero from Oregon Women's Golf. She continues to collect accolades in the world of amateur golf and is currently the #1 ranked amateur in the world and the 2025 McCormack Medal Winner. Kiara Romero - Oregon Women's Golf The Back of the Range - All Access Subscribe to The Back of the Range Subscribe in Apple Podcasts and SPOTIFY!Also Subscribe in YouTube,   Google Play , Overcast, Stitcher  Follow on Social Media! Email us:   ben@thebackoftherange.comWebsite: www.thebackoftherange.com  Voice Work by Mitch Phillips