by MADDIE KILGORE- November 4, 2020 - How the WHS Girls’ Golf team went to State this year.
At first glance, the Westfield High School Girls’ Golf team might not look intimidating. Their friendliness towards each other and sportsmanlike conduct towards other teams may deceive any onlooker, but they have a tremendous drive to win and a legacy of golf excellence.
Five girls competed at State this year, one being Brette Hanavan (11). “The experience of State is so surreal because you have to tell yourself that you are playing with the best teams and some of the best players,” Hanavan said. “You are always so nervous on the first tee box because you don’t want to top or duff your first drive. It’s nerve-racking but super exciting at the same time.”
Sophie McGinnis (11) also played at State, and to get there, the team had to be a family. “We all get along and love being around each other,” McGinnis said. “Golf is hard enough by yourself, so knowing that you have a family that believes in you and supports you makes it so much easier. Personally, I have never been on a team that is so well connected like we are.”
Along with the bond the girls had, they also had an encouraging win at regionals. It was only the third time Westfield Girls’ Golf had won regionals, so it raised their confidence.
“It was really exciting placing first because we played against really good teams. After that, it was a lot of fun getting ready for state,” Cate Jensen (12) said.
The golf team also had the opportunity to defeat a rival of theirs from the season.
“We beat Carmel for the first time that day after coming close on multiple occasions,” Hanavan said. “We did it in the postseason, which was exciting.”
The Westfield High School Girls’ Golf team ended up placing fifth in the state. Though frustration set in after the loss, the team is not ready to stop working.
“This golf season has been a whirlwind, but I wouldn’t change it for the world,” McGinnis said. “I can confidently say that my coaches taught me a lot about leadership and how to be a good teammate and even better friend.”
Though this season has looked different, teammates and coaches alike agree that they will continue to be motivated. Winning State next year is a top priority, and the WHS Girls’ Golf team will be a force to be reckoned with.
“I want state next year more than anything,” Allie Hildebrand (11) said. Frustration at state after not a good finish personally will push me. We need to outwork Evansville North next year if we’re going to win. For me, I’m going to do what I can to win and use that as fuel.”