WICHITA, Kan.—
Generally in high school sports, the leader of a team is a senior. The Northwest girls’ golf team proves otherwise. With no seniors, the team lacks experience and leadership. Junior Amber Davis is the only player in her third season on the team.“It was a transition,” Davis said. “We don’t have a dominant leader this year. It can get pretty competitive, and our positions change weekly depending on how well we do in practice.”
Sometimes it can be a challenge for a team to operate without a designated leader. However, standards remain at a high level for each tournament. So far the team has placed third in both of its appearances. Sophomore Alexis Clark, who qualified for state as a freshman, consistently holds the number one spot.
“I don’t know that I would say I fill the leadership role,” Clark said. “I will always be there to encourage, support and cheer on my teammates.”
Attitudes similar to Clark’s are what drives the team without a distinct person in charge. Although golf is seen as an individual sport, each player must put forth maximum effort for the team to benefit. Clark believes that because they are all underclassmen, the girls can learn together how to better the team.
“I see a dedicated team that thrives to get better every day at practice,” she said. “If we continue to push ourselves we can make a good drive to state.”
The next tournament for Northwest will be at 3:30 p.m. Monday, September 17 at Sim Park Golf Course. Players to watch on this developing team include Clark, Davis, and sophomore Ashton Taylor. The youth gives hope for better seasons to come if the team works together and stays focused.
“If we can work hard to build team unity now, next year will be our best season yet because we won’t be losing any players,” Davis said. “We have potential, so I have high hopes and expectations for this year and seasons to come, even after I graduate.”
