With nearly half of its roster comprised of freshmen, the Goessel golf team will be young this year, but fourth-year coach Chad Lindeman said his team is eager to gain experience and improve.
?We are young this year with six freshmen that are new to golf but are eager to learn and improve every day,? Lindeman said. ?I believe a number of the golfers will be able to shoot in the 90s, which is always a plus for this level.?
The Bluebirds graduated state-qualifier Reece Hiebert, who shot a 104 to place 36th at the Class 1A state tournament last year. Goessel also lost Zach Showalter to graduation. Last year?s team finished fourth at the regional tournament.
Four returning letter-winners will anchor the team this season, including seniors Lucas Hiebert, Lawton Makovec and Kellen Froese and junior Luke Unruh.
Junior Rhett Makovec has joined the team and is also expected to contribute.
Lindeman said he would like to see individuals and possibly a team qualify for the state tournament this year.
?We do have a young team with some serious golfers who want to improve and excel in the sport,? he said. ?I feel we will be very competitive at some meets this year. I look forward to working with this year?s group, as it will be exciting to see them continue to improve.?
The Bluebirds will open the season at 1 p.m. April 7 at Herington.