A.Q. Shipley’s Insights: Golf, the NFL, and the GOAT, Tom Brady

Twelve-year NFL veteran and Super Bowl champion A.Q. Shipley has mastered more than just the gridiron — he currently boasts a 9.2 handicap on the golf course, with a trusty driver that consistently carries over 300 yards. Shipley’s versatile skill set has made him a fan favorite, but during a recent episode of the Subpar podcast, hosted by Colt Knost and Drew Stoltz, the conversation veered away from golf, diving deep into his illustrious football career.

The Journey of A.Q. Shipley

A.Q. Shipley’s professional journey is filled with remarkable experiences. With more than a decade in the NFL, he had the unique opportunity to play alongside some of the game’s greatest, including the legendary Tom Brady on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Starting as an undrafted free agent, Shipley’s ability to adapt and learn from great players helped shape his career. However, it was his time with Brady that left an indelible mark on him both as a player and as a person.

Tom Brady: The Legend

During the Subpar podcast, Shipley shed light on what it was like being in the presence of Tom Brady, often regarded as the greatest quarterback of all time. Shipsley remarked, “I’ve never been around somebody like that,” reflecting on Brady’s unparalleled work ethic and leadership skills. He contrasted his experiences with Brady alongside other Hall of Famers like Larry Fitzgerald, Ben Roethlisberger, Andrew Luck, and Reggie Wayne.

The Intangible Impact of Brady

Brady’s presence in the locker room became increasingly significant for Shipley throughout the season. His ability to elevate those around him was not merely about innate talent but rather about holding teammates accountable and setting a standard of excellence. Shipley impressed by how Brady dynamically influenced the team’s culture, pushing everyone to excel consistently, which is often overlooked in discussions about players’ performances.

A Game-changing Moment

Shipley recounted a poignant practice moment that encapsulated Brady’s impact. During a 7-on-7 drill, he observed how Brady interacted with tight end Rob Gronkowski. Brady completed a pass to Gronk, who then turned and sprinted downfield for a 50-yard touchdown. What struck Shipley was the intensity with which Brady executed what was essentially a drill: “You would have thought that was a full-speed rep in the Super Bowl.” This emphasized the mindset that Brady maintained — every rep counted, and every opportunity was vital in pursuing perfection.

Elevating Team Performance

The impact of Brady’s work ethic was infectious. After witnessing that practice moment, Shipley noted how every member of the team started to adapt. Offensive linemen became more proactive, and receivers executed their routes with renewed purpose. Brady insisted on extra walkthroughs, focusing on various game scenarios, thereby maximizing practice time and ultimately improving the overall skills of the team. This relentless drive for excellence created a culture of hard work that extended throughout the roster.

The Secret to Brady’s Success

Knost and Stoltz remarked on Brady’s approach, highlighting the ethos behind his success: “There’s a reason he’s the GOAT.” Shipley fervently agreed, acknowledging that Brady exemplifies commitment and discipline, qualities that are crucial for achieving greatness in any sport. Brady’s influence was more than individual talent; it was about instilling a collective mindset that winning demands preparation and focus.

Shipley’s Love for Golf

Outside of football, Shipley has cultivated a passion for golf. His 9.2 handicap indicates a deep commitment to the sport, demonstrating that the drive for excellence carries over beyond the football field. In the full episode on Subpar, Shipley also shared his journey into golf, how he fell in love with the sport, and insights on renowned courses like Shadow Creek. The parallels between golf and football are apparent; both require precision, mental toughness, and a winning mentality.

Lessons from the Field to the Fairway

The lessons Shipley learned from Brady extend to his golf game as well. The attention to detail and the relentless pursuit of improvement are traits that have become part of his identity, whether on the turf or the green. Preparing for a round of golf mimics the preparation for a crucial NFL game, affirming the notion that the principles of success are universal across all fields.

Concluding Thoughts

A.Q. Shipley’s journey through the NFL and into the world of golf provides a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of sports. While he has quickly made a name for himself in the golf community, his experiences with Tom Brady and other football legends remain at the forefront of his narrative. The lessons learned — accountability, hard work, and the importance of each practice rep — serve as valuable takeaways for anyone striving for excellence, whether in sports or life.

For more insights from A.Q. Shipley, including his thoughts on elite golf courses and personal anecdotes from his football career, the full podcast episode on Subpar is definitely worth a listen. Tune in for an engaging discussion that blends the worlds of golf and football, providing a deeper understanding of what it means to be driven by passion and purpose.