The HHS boys’ golf season wrapped up last fall, and they even had athletes that broke records set years prior. Mark Beckstrand, the head coach for the golf team, stated his goals for this past season: “Some goals this year for the golf team would be to win a tournament, which we accomplished. Secondly, to win our conference tournament. Lastly, win or place in the State AA Tournament.” In all, the boys’ golf team finished fifth at State; Coach Beckstrand looks forward to competing with this group in the years to come.
The HHS girl’s golf season, on the other hand, is currently preparing to start their season this spring. Head Coach Kali Denman anticipates an exciting year and has begun preparations for a successful season. When asked about her goals, Denman shared, “I have many goals for us as a team, as well as for each individual. As a team, this year I’d like us to show up to practice each day ready to get better and work hard. When you practice how you play, that’s when you see the most success. As a team, I believe we can be in the top half of our playing field in ESD and State. I’m also looking for a State Champ this year on the individual side!”
To these players, golf isn’t just a program. It’s a culture and a way of life. Through this sport, it helps the athletes prepare for their future on or off of the green. “Golf has single-handedly shaped and formed me, my character, and my life,” senior boys’ golfer Will Allen explains. “I spend almost all of my free time playing golf, and I’ve met a lot of people through the sport. Some of these people were coaches, some are friends, and some have become mentors and role models that I look up to. Golf has affected my life in so many ways. I wouldn’t give it up for anything in the world, to be quite honest.” For these boys who grew up hitting shots off in their driveway, it’s more than a sport: “It’s a way of life,” as Allen puts it.
To keep up with news on the Harrisburg High Golf Team, you can visit Harrisburg High’s Athletics Calendar and find golfing on the website.