(photo belongs to Veronica Dillman)
When nearby community members think of popular sports at Greenwood, they often think of field hockey, soccer, and basketball. This makes complete sense since these programs have been around and successful in Greenwood athletics for many, many years. Through all of these teams’ successes and triumphs over the years, there is one sport that has been overshadowed by the big-name sports. This is a sport that I happen to play, golf.
Many people may laugh at the thought of a high school golf team in Newport, Perry County. However, the team itself has an admirable approach. The head coach of the team, Jen Field, describes the team as “dedicated.” As a current member of this team, I couldn’t agree more. The coach also added that she “honestly feels that every golfer is not only dedicated to the sport of golf but dedicated to the team. As a coach, you always want a team built on unity. ” After a 2020 season that was filled with COVID restrictions, this team was ready to succeed in 2021. The coach says, “Our kids work their tails off getting better each day. Golf is such a short season that allows for some improvement to be made. But our kids have put in the time and effort throughout 365 days.” Unlike most other sports, golf is not entirely about competing against other teams or athletes. It is more of an internal progression sport that requires hours upon hours of work and dedication. After experiencing these learning curves, this team was ready to show their talents on the big stage. Once the first match of the season rolled around, everyone could feel that the focus on the team was better than ever. We were hungry for victory.
(photo belongs to Veronica Dillman)
Team-first mentality and dedication to the game were vital as the season progressed. It was important that we put the team as a whole above ourselves as individuals. The season wasn’t perfect, but thanks to the characteristics of this team, we made it through together.
In terms of the team’s success this year, it was a phenomenal year. As the season was beginning back in early August, the coaches knew the team they had on their hands had huge potential. I would say that the team met its goals. Tri-Valley League Golf Champions and a bronze place finish in the District 3 AA Team Championships isn’t too shabby. Even though we had to battle our league rival, Millersburg, all season long, we were thrilled to edge by them in the end. Our final overall team record was 16-8 and 12-4 in league play. The coach describes the feeling of winning the league as “extremely exciting, rewarding, and so much fun.” Not only did the team win the league, but we also broke a record for the best team finish in Districts in Newport golf history. This is definitely a sign of new beginnings within the program. Looking forward to next season, having these experiences under our belt will help us in the long run.
Both Gavin Fegley and Hunter Flickinger qualified for the individual District 3 AA Individual Championship as well. Hunter played some of the best golf he has played all season in this competition. He advanced to the second round of districts and placed eleventh. Gavin placed fourth in the championships over the two days. After this finish, his name went into the Newport Golf history books. As of right now, he is believed to have the best finish by any Newport golfer in individual district play. Not only did Gavin succeed in the postseason, but he was also named the TVL MVP.
Through all of these accomplishments, it is quite obvious that the 2021 Newport Golf Team has left behind quite a legacy. Not only did we go from last place to first place in the league in one season, but each of us developed as golfers as well. At the end of the season, it seemed like everyone’s game was peaking, and everyone just wanted to be around the team. That team atmosphere that was so focused at the beginning of the season never diminished, even at the very last moments of the season.
This group not only succeeded as a team but also had some shining individual play. After a great season like this, what’s next for this team? Well, according to their head coach, “Our goals are to defend the league championship, win team districts, and have more individuals qualify for states. With all but one golfer returning next year, the coaching staff (Jen Field, Peg Tressler, and Denny Tressler) is incredibly excited about what is to come!”
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