The Panther Golf team has started their season strong, displaying competitiveness and fierceness. They are building a close-knit and inspiring community through shared experiences—whether it’s during hangouts, bus rides back from tournaments, or even at practice.
“I think we’ve always had great chemistry with each other,” senior Allie Hensley said. “We have all been so close since freshman year and we all have just grown alongside one another.”
As for these seniors, growing up together has helped them overcome personal struggles, difficulties, or even mental blocks during practice.
“In general there can be weeks of high school that are very stressful and busy, my teammates see me everyday and can tell when something is upsetting me,” senior Lauren Ybarra said. “ They always ask me how I’m feeling and let me get it out. I am so grateful for our close bond that has supported me throughout high school.”
Through those close moments teamwork plays into their success and achievements.
“Golf is a game of community and encouragement,” junior Logan Gibson said. “Being encouraging is very important for me and our team. It honestly helps us be better on the field and off the field.”
At most times when they have setbacks and discouraging practices, it’s the motivation that keeps them going.
“When I mess up I try to refocus on the future and for the next meet and remember that the future is the only thing that I can control,” Gibson said.
According to the members – winning titles, awards, and shiny medals is the most rewarding part of golf.
“I won the Magnolia West Fall Invitational this year which was a big accomplishment,” senior Rex Rodgers said. “It was my first high school win, which was a big one for me.”
Celebrating wins is a common practice among teams and for golf, it’s the most significant.
“We always celebrate a win or tournament with a celebration from Mrs. Shrode. She never fails to make us feel special,” Ybarra said. “After every tournament she throws us a party with cookies or even Canes.”
As the seniors experience their last first they remember to give thanks to their biggest advocates.
“Our biggest supporters are our parents. They come to all the tournaments and are always there to push us and be by our sides,” Hensley said. “It’s a bittersweet moment and as a senior, I wouldn’t want anything else in the world.”
