Lady Raiders Look Forward To First Golf Season
By Marlana Smith
Excitement is in the air as North Shelby prepares to launch its first-ever girls’ golf program this fall.
Head Coach Chris Parsons, who brings a strong track record from Palmyra, is eager to hit the links with a competitive and enthusiastic group of student-athletes.
“There is lots of interest from the girls and they’re just itching to get going,” Parsons said. “We know it’s going to take some work, but it will be a fun time watching these ladies get better each day.”
Coach Parsons is no stranger to building successful golf programs. He founded the girls’ golf team at Palmyra in 2016, coaching them to state qualifiers every year through 2022. In 2019, the team placed fifth at state, and Parsons also led Palmyra’s boys’ team to a Class 2 state championship in 2022.
Assisting him this season is former player Reigan Parsons, who brings her own successful playing experience to assist with the team.
“She had a great career and will add some experience and help since our numbers are really good,” Coach Parsons noted.
As of now, 14 girls have committed to the team, which begins practice on August 11.
The roster includes, Seniors: Hadlee Parsons, Ally Rich, Harper Copenhaver, Zoey Gunnels, Kylana Gunnels, Lindy Schwanke and Trinity Dreckshage. Junior: Ava Richardson. Sophomores: Finley Parsons, Mallory Griffin, Sadie Gander and Alexis Donath. Freshmen: Elaina Hunolt and Scarlett Yoder.
While all the players are new to the sport, Coach Parsons believes their competitive spirit will drive improvement.
“We will definitely keep our expectations in check, as all of these girls are beginners,” he said. “However, knowing how competitive they are, we will look to compete and get better every time out. I’d like to see a few of them have a shot to get to the state meet at the end of the season.”
The team’s first meet is tentatively scheduled for September 2 in Centralia, competing in a quad match with Centralia, Harrisburg, and South Shelby.
“This is awesome to see the amount of girls interested in helping start this program,” Coach Parsons said. “Golf is a lifetime sport, so starting early helps get that going. I am looking forward to seeing where this program reaches over the next few years.”
