After persevering through sudden changes, the girls golf team took second place at the district meet, which advanced all five golfers (seniors Leah Torres, Kaylie Smith, Grace Darcy, sophomore Madysen Rector, freshman Jamie Ingalls) to the Regional tournament at Rockwall Golf & Athletic Club on April 17-18.
“Everyone’s been trying their best in practice and tournaments,” Torres said “And I think taking all of our tournaments, even if they’re one-day tournaments, seriously is what gave them the confidence in our district tournament.”
With the leadership of Torres, the team ended the first day of the tournament two strokes ahead of Porter. Another team leader was Smith, who shot a 98, helping to secure the lead.
There were chances for thunderstorms on the second day, which gave the girls the motivation to stay within the top two spots during the first day of the game.
“We had done the work the first day, and we were ready to do it again if we did have to play the second day.” Torres said.
Another setback the team faced was having to face districts without two of their strongest players. Junior Courtney Daniel was at a track meet and sophomore Emma Thaxton had to leave town just days before the tournament due to a family emergency. They had to move up players for the tournament, including Darcy and Rector. Ingalls, who was in the freshman golf class, also moved up.
“Grace and Madysen have put in a lot of work this year trying to get into that top 5,” Chancellor said. “We had players there, but they stuck with it, spent a lot of time with Leah, working with her. Hardly ever missed a practice, put in extra hours.”
The second day of the tournament was canceled due to heavy thunderstorms, which secured the second place spot for the team.
Both coaches are proud of and impressed with the players, due to this year being a “rebuilding” year. With the loss of key senior players last year, the remaining players and the coaches have had to spend time cultivating new talent and finding players to fill big shoes.
“We’re excited for the future now, because of what they accomplished at districts,” Chancellor said.
