The crispy air breezed over the fairway as teams that came from different schools scattered through the morning mist. These golfers from both Varsity and JV teams fought their way to ending a season full of top finishers with unforgettable victories.
“I’ve been playing golf for around four years,” junior Jake Li said. “Our group is very close with each other. Golf is an individual sport, but our group supports each other and makes it feel like we are a team.”
This fall left an impressive chapter for both the Varsity and JV Golf team. The players showcased their talents, teamwork and memories as the season wrapped up. The team had effective coaching and preparation from head coaches Jon Engelking and Ashley Payne along with assistant coach, Blake Taylor. Throughout the season, the bond with their members became the success of the program that continues to grow stronger with every tournament.
“This season has been great,” senior Kristian Leask said. “As a team, we have placed top three in every tournament so far.”
For the Boys Varsity Team, the experience for them unfolded successfully as they won multiple awards. From one of their very first tournaments of the season, the team won second place overall at the Argyle Invitational. They delivered their impressive performance at the start of the season along with senior Carter Cox and Li who both earned top ten finishes after an intense playoff. This tournament became a turning point of the season, proving their determination with composure and confidence.
“I have been playing golf for about five years now,” Leask said. “I joined golf because I wanted to play a sport that was relaxing but still was competitive. I love competition and I wouldn’t want it any other way.”
Later in the season, the Boys Varsity Team continued to prove their consistency at the West Frisco Classic, where they earned fifth place overall against another challenging field. Despite the pressure, junior Grant Rae successfully made the top ten, setting the pace for the team. Their finish at West Frisco Classic highlighted the team’s ability to stay strong, proving they remain one of the region’s most competitive teams.
“My hope for this season is to make it to regionals,” Leask said. “This year, our team is very competitive and we have a very good chance to make it to regionals and states.”
The major highlight of the season occurred at the Farmers Fall Fest tournament on Nov. 3, where the Boys Varsity team captured a strong spot at first place overall. Leask delivered a standout performance, taking first place individually, while Cox secured third place along with Rae earning ninth place. Their combined effort along with the team created a historic performance that pushed their program to the top. This tournament became more than just a win, it became a defining moment of the season.
“It felt great to win, it’s my second solo win in my high school golf career and it gets better every time,” Leask said. “I honestly felt happier that our team came in first place overall, not just me winning.”
The Girls Varsity team stepped into the fall season with their determination and strength. Their moment came at the Mesquite Invitational on Sept. 23, where the team captured an impressive second place finish, showcasing their confidence under pressure. Throughout the tournament, junior Michelle Pham’s performance carried her to a tie for second place individually along with freshmen Saydee Vo securing top ten finish. Their performances were not only individually highlighted but they represent the teamwork that defined the varsity’s traits. The season for the Girls Varsity team marked a period of growth for the entire team. Every practice, early morning warm-ups and challenging events contributed to the group’s identity on their ambition.
“I joined golf because I’ve loved the sport since my dad taught me,” Vo said. “This is my first year playing golf on the team. For next season, my goal is to improve my scores and hopefully place higher in tournaments.”
While the varsity teams earned their achievements, the junior varsity team helped shape the future strength of the program. The JV team gained experiences in tournaments, practiced competitive strategies and built confidence on challenging courses. Their dedication and improvement not only strengthen the overall program but also ensure their team is full of talented players ready to continue the tradition of success on the fairways.
“I think my impact on golf is that I support others and my teammates,” Vo said. “I’ve had a really good experience so far with my coaches and teammates. I love how I can get to see new places and have fun with my friends.”
As the fall season comes to an end, the golf teams can look back with pride and forward to their spring season. From the Boys Varsity capturing first place overall at Farmers Fall Fest tournament along with strong finishes at Argyle and West Frisco, to the Girls Varsity earning second place at the Mesquite Invitational and the Junior Varsity developing to their next achievements, each player contributed to this season with growth, teamwork and dedication. Guided by Engelking and Payne, the program built impressive results with excellence from the players’ continued success with bright futures.
“As a team, we have placed top three in every tournament so far this year,” Leask said. “Having a team you can always count on to have your back is the key to a successful season.”
