Parkers Chapel’s boys have enjoyed golf success this season. The Trojans hope that carries over into the postseason as they travel to Diamondhead in Hot Springs to compete in the district tournament on Thursday.
As usual, the objective is to win but the district tournament also serves as a qualifier for the state tournament.
“Our goal is always to do our best. I feel if we can continue to play how we have been playing, we should have a good run at state,” said Parkers Chapel coach Hillary Frisby. “They have been playing very well this entire season. Some players have had a few ups and downs, but overall as a team, they have consistently shot low scores.”
In tournament play, the top three scores count in the team total. The Trojans’ lineup will include Landon Black, Jaxon Waggoner, John Hall and Hunter Cheatham.
Depth has been a strength for PC all season. It could play a factor again.
“The boys are strong 1-through-4,” said Frisby. “Luckily if someone has a bad day another player steps up. This has helped us keep low team scores to win most matches.”
Black earned All-State honors last year, shooting 81 in the state tournament. The senior shot 75 in the district tournament and was medalist runner-up.
Three of the four players in the Trojans’ lineup competed in last year’s state tournament.
“Jaxon Waggoner has put in a lot of time in golf this year. He has played in several ASGA tournaments throughout the year. This has improved his game tremendously and has improved his scores this year,” said Frisby. “John Hall is a newcomer to the team this year. His scores have helped us to win several matches this season. Hunter Cheatham is a returning player and brings experience and potential to shoot low scores.”
Frisby said keeping a strong mental game will be the key for the Trojans.
On the girls’ side, the Lady Trojans finished as the 2A runner-up in last year’s girls state golf tournament. But Frisby saw three of the four members graduate in the spring.
Junior Lorali Barnes returned this season after earning All-State honors a year ago. She’s been surrounded by young players who have gained valuable experience with each round they’ve played.
Frisby set modest goals for her team in the district tournament.
“Their goal is to compete their best and hopefully qualify as a team for state,” she said.
Barnes will be joined by freshman Bentlee Bates, sophomore Brilee Carelock and freshman Jade Stewart. The top three scores count in the team total but the Lady Trojans will look for Barnes to carry the scoring load.
Especially considering their lack of experience, Frisby said she’s been happy with the way the young players have come along.
“Brilee Carelock, Bentlee Bates and Jade Stewart just started playing golf this year. They have all put in a great amount of time and effort. They have had some great matches this season. They have grown a lot in a short amount of time.”
The key for the Lady Trojans, according to Frisby, will be staying away from large numbers.