Crazy first season for Streelman on PGA tour

You don't need to explain the process of becoming a professional golfer to Kevin Streelman.

He has been there and done that.

After turning pro in 2001, the Wheaton native has made his way through numerous mini-tours, successfully tackled Q school, and is in his rookie season on the PGA Tour at 29.

While Streelman went about his business quietly, his name soon began to swirl around at the Buick Invitational in January. After opening rounds of 67-69 and a firm grasp on second place, Streelman found himself paired with none other than Tiger Woods for Round 3.

Despite final rounds of 75-77 and finishing tied for 29th, he takes with him some new perspective on the game that he hopes will lead to a long career on tour.

Streelman ranks in the top 100 on tour in driving distance (67th), greens in regulation (83rd) and sand saves (47th). His 2008 tournament earnings total $194,650 -- good for 143rd on the money list -- and he has made the cut in eight of his first 15 tournaments, including this weekend's AT&T Classic in Duluth, Ga.

Q. How has life changed since the beginning of this year?

A. 2008 has been a ton of fun, extremely hectic and tiring at the same time. It seems like every week is filled with great new experiences, and I feel very blessed to be where I am.

Q. Can you describe what it was like playing with Tiger at the Buick Invitational?

A. It was great just getting to know him and honestly it was the most fun day of my life. What I've worked so hard for was up close, and it was awesome. It was also encouraging because I was able to hit inside of him a number of times. Unfortunately, I didn't have a hot putter on the weekend, but it made me feel like I could hang on tour.

Q. What kind of reaction did you get from the galleries?

A. Playing with Tiger is the ultimate when it comes to fan support. It also tests your concentration because it's so crazy around him. I personally got a lot of support from the people in San Diego and it was a blast.

Q. What is something golf fans don't know about life on the PGA Tour?

A. If you're not careful about how you conserve your time and energy, you can get in trouble. You want to play every week, but you can't. There's a reason why Tiger only plays two or three weeks in a row -- it takes a lot of energy out of you. People think we stay at these great resorts and play the best courses in the world, and it is all of that, but there's more to it.

Q. You're originally from Wheaton. How often are you back home?

A. I'll definitely be there for a couple weeks this summer. I have a lot of friends and family in the Western suburbs that will come to the John Deere Classic in July. I love getting home and getting around the courses I grew up on. Chicago will always be home to me.

Q. What are your favorite courses to play when you're home?

A. I love getting out to Cantigny. I basically grew up there and had so many jobs. Nobody knows their putting green better than I do. Arrowhead Golf Club is great as well. To see what they've done to that course is amazing. Recently, Black Sheep Golf Club offered me a touring professional membership. Whenever I'm home I play and practice there.

Q. What goals are you setting for yourself?

A. Making cuts was a goal of mine, and I've been able to do that a lot so far. Now I think it's time to start gunning for some top finishes. I've been working on my putting a lot, and I think that's going to help me. I plan on and hope to be on tour for many years, but I'm trying to make sure I'm having as much fun as I can and live for the now.