Did You Know? John Daly Played and Excelled in Three Different Sports in High School

Published 03/05/2022, 2:33 PM EST

It might be impossible to imagine John Daly as anything but a golfer. Over the years, the 55-year-old icon has created quite a name for himself, successfully earning fame and fortune as a golf icon. However, when he was starting out, Daly had a few other interests he could have pursued.

In fact, had things gone differently, Daly might have chosen another sport altogether. That being said, let’s take a look at Daly’s journey towards professional golf, and how he came to love the game.

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What other sports did John Daly play?

After spending his childhood in Arkansas, Daly and his family moved to Zachary, Louisiana, and then to Missouri. This was during his high school years when Daly played three sports together; baseball, football, and golf.

While he ended up favoring golf, one can say that Daly was a child with many talents. While playing one game is tough enough, Daly managed to both play and excel in more than one.

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Having said that, Daly apparently lost interest in baseball sometime later. But his interest in football and golf stayed put, as he played both in high school. He was a punter and place-kicker with the Helias high school, where they won the Missouri state football championship in 1983.

Naturally, the two-time major winner was also on the Helias golf team. Daly ended up winning the 1983 Missouri State Amateur Championship, along with the Missouri state championship in the same year.

Over time, golf stuck with him.

Having stayed in Missouri for some time, Daly was back in Arkansas to complete his high school senior year. His game continued to improve, as he won the Arkansas State Amateur Championship (1984).

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When did Daly go professional?

Notably, Daly turned professional in 1987 and his first win was the 1987 Missouri Open. Of course, his iconic 1989 US Open victory is still talked about. Though Daly’s talent was already recognized, this win helped Daly etch his name in the history books of the game.

Daly last played the Cologuard Classic, finishing T66.

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Looking back, one cannot deny that Daly’s decorated career is a result of his journey and all the places he has played in. Not to mention, his history with baseball and football, which only proves his talent. However, taking a glance at all his contributions to tour and more, one can only be glad that Daly stuck with golf.

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Written by:

Devika Pawar is a Golf and NBA writer at Essentially Sports. A psychology graduate from KJ Somaiya, Devika has an experience with sportswriting at Republic World for around two years now. She loves NBA a little too much, and is a dedicated Golden State Warriors fan.

Did You Know? John Daly Played and Excelled in Three Different Sports in High School

What other sports did John Daly play?

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When did Daly go professional?