By Cameron Hill

While Covid has affected many facets of all of our lives, golf has steadily and thankfully remained untouched. Considering that golf is entirely done outside on a sprawling course, social distancing was a part of the game before Covid even existed. The golf season has continued per usual and the team has been excellent this year despite facing certain challenges.

The team thus far has enjoyed a very successful season, winning all but two of their tournaments. Not only that, but the team is also ranked 13th out of 53 teams in Division III Co-ed. The team is being powered by “a good group of experienced seniors, coupled with a VERY strong corps of freshman,” according to Coach Curt Hudek. Coach Hudek and his counterpart, Coach Jay Becher, bring more than 50 years of golf experience to the team and they have used this knowledge to continue to help and improve the golf program.

Coach Hudek said that, from the beginning of the season, his goal has been to “introduce students to the game of golf.” From the results this season, it is clear that the team has not only accomplished this goal, but they have far exceeded it.

Junior Luke Epperson, who has 13 year of golf experience, said as the season has gone on, the team’s ambitions have evolved to focus on “making it to state.” This goal seems very reasonable with the way they are playing.
This season has not been without its challenges. Coach Hudek noted that the biggest factor preventing the team’s success has been “the weather on the days of our matches.” He continued on saying, “All but one of our matches have been played in VERY windy conditions.”

Another more positive challenge has been that there are so many players on the team this year. Coach Hudek said, with golf being such an individual based game, “Handling 17 students has been a challenge with just two instructors.” However, each person on the team has demonstrated a great understanding of the game.

Coach Hudek also remarked that the team atmosphere is “competitive, yet fun.” Luke echoed the same sentiments, noting that “The team atmosphere is amazing,” and that “Everyone has a good attitude and is always working hard.” Despite the serious nature of golf, the team manages to keep it lighthearted. Both Coach Hudek and Luke attribute the great atmosphere as one of the team’s keys to improvement and success.

The team is currently hitting the homestretch of the season with their last few tournaments before state. The team is working hard to finish the season strong, so make sure to wish them luck!