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Girls beat ‘Cats by single stroke
by Matthew Dickinson, sports editor · Sports · April 17, 2024
In another week of progress, the West Branch girls’ golf team eked out a 209-210 dual win over Wilton Monday evening at Wahkonsa Golf Course in Durant Wildcats.
The Bears have improved each time they have hit the course, with lower scores in all three duals played this year. West Branch used the development to its advantage in order to outlast a strong effort by the hosts.
“The girls are coming into a groove and gaining confidence in her game,” Bears Head Coach Jan O’Neil said “It feels good to know how competitive we can be with other area teams. Experience is a big factor and we get more comfortable each time we get out on the course.”
Senior Claire Jarrett continued another great campaign, shooting a season-best 41 while making par four times on the nine-hole course. The card earned her medalist honors for the third time in as many chances.
“Claire’s experience and confidence is an asset to her game,” the coach said. “She navigates courses well and can adapt to many situations. I’m looking forward to sharing her successes this season.”
Freshman Julia Herring was another key contributor to the victory. She shaved off several strokes from her previous best to shoot a 51, good for fourth in the field.
“Julia had a great round,” O’Neil said. “She is becoming more comfortable on the course as well.” The coach added that she believes Herring being able to practice with the team last year has helped with improving her confidence before she started her high school career.
Adelyn Hetrick had a 58, while Olivia Thomas was the final scorer with 59. Joelle Haas contributed a 69.
The Bears will have their first chance to take on an 18-hole tournament Thursday in Kalona, which will also give the majority of the team a chance to get their feet wet. In addition to adjusting to the rigors of walking 18 holes, course management on the challenging Kalona Golf Course will also be a learning experience.
“The Kalona invite will be our first experience with 18 holes this season,” the coach said. “I’m looking forward to having this opportunity to help prepare for later in the season. Course management will be important as we navigate Kalona. I always like this tournament because we take the four lowest 9-hole scores from each round. It’s always a fun day!”
Team scores: 1. West Branch 209 2. Wilton 210.
West Branch scores: Claire Jarrett 41 (medalist); Julia Herring 51; Adelyn Hetrick 58; Olivia Thomas 59; Joelle Haas 69.
Wilton results: Ava Barrett 47 (runner-up medalist); Hope Lock 50; Abby Hugunin 56; Imogen Jirak 57; Addie Hartsch 61; Ryleigh DuRocher 62.
Wilton junior varsity results: Ketlin Yant 77; Lydia Shuger 80.
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