Photo courtesy of Courtney Burns
The Hastings High girls golf team had their GNAC meet Monday October 7 in North Platte. Five tigers competed for a spot at state; they were Ashlee Long, Courtney Burns, Allie Bauer, Anna Brant and Natalie Brandt. The team was just 23 strokes away from a third place finish and a ticket to state. However, as an individual, Brandt scored 97 points and got 3rd place, which qualified her for state. The girls golf team has been coached by Richard Christy for four years.
“Before the season started the girls had competitive rounds, and we tried to get as many juniors involved,” Christy said.
Long enjoys being a part of the golf team for not only the competitive part, but also just playing the sport in general.
“I like playing with friends and not thinking about anything and just having a good time,” Long said.
Brandt saw improvement throughout the year. As a freshman she would get nervous, but as she got older she would go to meets and warm up by hitting range balls.
“This year has been a lot of fun. I started out really frustrated because I felt like I wasn’t hitting the ball as far as I did last year, but over the past few weeks I have really improved, and it shows in my scores,” Brandt said.
Brandt went to state golf as a sophomore with the team, however it is her first time qualifying individually.
“I’m excited to go back to state with an actual chance at placing individually and hanging out in the hotel room,” Brandt said.
