The lady Devildogs golf team’s state campaign is off and running again, starting their season undefeated (5-0) for a second year in a row. After losing Victoria Huskey, a senior last year and back-to-back state champion, the team has some very big shoes to fill. However, the lady Devildogs have already stepped up their game.

Coming off of a region winning streak and runner-up finish at the state tournament last season, the l12ady Devildogs face fresh challengers at the new 4A level with a fierce determination. Throughout the summer and into this season, the golf team works hard to achieve success.

“The team has set both personal and team goals,” says head coach Elizabeth Nix. “[The goals] are fairly lofty, but they can be met with a lot of hard work. My personal goals are to be region champs and state champs.”

The team is anchored in the number one spot by Beth Ann Townsend, senior, who has earned all-region honors for the past three years. Underclassmen are also making a huge impact. Sophomore Ashley Looper has been working very hard to improve her game this off-season and is seeing her dedication pay off. Looper believes in “playing against the course not the opponent.”  At the Lady Hurricane Invitational September 1, Townsend took home the individual title with a score of 70, two under par, and Looper finished third overall with a score of 75. This paved the way for a victory for the whole team as they defeated the PAC Panthers by two strokes.

“We have all impact players,” Nix goes on to say. “In high school golf, team really does matter, as one score can impact everyone.” Senior Alivia Waynick is number three on the team and is improving the details of her game. Junior Hailey Heath, number four, is working hard and has the capability to be a great player. Nix is pleased with the JV team as well. “The JV squad competes with other schools. They are ready to step up at any given time and are improving daily.

Lady Devildogs golf has been given high expectations, but Nix and her team are confident they can exceed those expectations.