A new season brings high expectations to the course. The Xavier girls’ golf team has set new goals and brought a new dynamic to the team. The Saints are led by juniors Sydnee Hill,  Libby Kramer, Emily O’Rourke, and Ana Stangler, sophomores Ellie Braksiek and Sophie Schmit, and freshman Kaitlin Hotchkiss.

“One of the best things about high school golf is you get to know your teammates really well,” Kramer said. “I’m looking forward to being on the team and growing closer together through team dinners and bonding.”

The girls competed in their first meet on Thursday, April 5 at Saint Andrews Golf Course, against Cedar Rapids Prairie and Cedar Rapids Jefferson. They took second place behind Prairie by seven strokes.

“We are a young team,” Coach Julie Kadlec said. “This is exciting because they have already bonded from being together last year and have showed improvements from working together in the off-season.”

Braksiek was the runner-up in individual scores, shooting a 41, behind Prairie senior Lexi Poundstone, who shot a 38. The Saints also dropped 16 strokes off their score from last season, but Braksiek wants more.

“My goals for this season, as an individual, would be to make it to state,” Braksiek said. “I would also like to have an average of 45 or below, and a team average of 195.”

The Saints put in work during the off-season in order to have a successful season.

“I prepared in the off-season by getting private lessons with my swing coach every week,” Braksiek said. “I also practiced five days a week and played a lot in the summer. We have to use golf simulators a lot in the winter since we cannot play outside.”

Even though golf is a quiet sport that requires a lot of focus, the girls say it can create great friendships.

“I enjoy golfing because it is actually a great way to get to know people,” Kramer said. “When I go and play alone it is a good time for me to think, and I find it relaxing.”

The Saints competed yesterday, Wednesday, April 18 in the CRANDIC meet at Ellis. They are back in action on Monday, April 23 at Saint Andrews against Iowa City West at 3 p.m.

Keera Ball

Sports Writer