At just nine years old, Grade 4 pupil Demyan Burczak is set to take the international sport scene by storm, writes Kelly Kidgell.
Cotswold Downs parents Stefan and Alexandra Burczak beam with pride as I’m introduced to the eldest of their three children, Demyan. Kitted out in his green blazer and golfing attire, as we chat about his love for the game and what his future holds, it’s difficult to believe Demyan has only been playing for two years.
“There wasn’t much else to do during lockdown, so he randomly picked up my clubs one day and played on our estate’s course”, says Stefan. “His talent was obvious, so we had his own clubs fitted once restrictions eased. Demyan has been eating, breathing, and sleeping golf ever since. If ever anyone is looking for him, he can always be found on the course!”
With an impressive collection of over 20 trophies and medals, it’s no wonder Demyan has been selected for the KZN U11 team and is ranked the number one golfer for South Africa in his U9 age group.
He won the SA Kids’ Champs World Qualifier at Huddle Park shooting 78 and 75 respectively. “I shot 75 at Cotswold Downs on Sunday,” he says – a score most local adult golfers could only dream of. Demyan placed third at their club champs a few weeks ago, competing against 35 adults and scoring 73 points off an 11 handicap over the two-day competition. He’s achieved a rolling/open invitation to various Internationals, including the Italian Open and the SA Junior Africa Challenge, where he recently podiumed third at San Lameer and was subsequently selected to represent an international team at the Dunbar Cup.
“If there was any course in the whole world I could play, it would be Pinehurst in America,” says Demyan. A dream soon to be realised, as he plans not only to attend – but to take the trophy there in 2023.
Demyan says he never gets tired of golf. “When I play golf, I feel very happy. I just focus and really get into the zone.”
Coached on Mondays and Fridays by Matthew Main at the Scieg Performance Centre, and out on the course at least four days a week, there’s little time for much other sport. Demyan does, however, enjoy playing soccer and cricket too.
His biggest inspiration and fan is dad Stefan, who’s also his caddy. “I pick my own clubs though. Dad just sits on the cart being old and stuff,” says Demyan.
If he could tee off with any pro, Demyan would choose Rory McIlroy. “It’s his attitude that I like most.”
If it’s attitude that defines success, Demyan certainly has the makings of a champion. When asked what his short- and long-term goals are, he answers; “to win”.
When natural ability is combined with hard work and commitment, and talent is nurtured by big dreams, an unwavering passion is given purpose. When it’s a nine-year-old, that potential purpose is infinitely inspiring.
He has the discipline, he has the dedication. And in more ways than one, Demyan sure has the drive.
Winning Menu of a Mini-Pro on Competition Day
- Breakfast: Boiled eggs, bacon, sausages and toast.
- Before Tee-off: Toasted chicken and mayo sandwich.
- Halfway House: Peanut butter and honey sandwich.
- After his round: Margherita pizza with bacon.
- To quench that thirst: Powerade and water mixed together.
Pictures: Silver Lining Photography