As the sun sets over the course, Tucker Lewis lines up for the final putt of the championship round. Although the team had high hopes for the season, they did not finish as strong as they hoped. However, the team is optimistic and sees this year as an important step towards making a stronger team for the future. Noah Billman has been one of the most consistent Bulldogs throughout the season, averaging an impressive 42-47, and breaking 50 only twice.
“I think this season has been really good. With such a young team, we’ve been growing a lot,” said Billman, a sophomore. “I think I’ve done decently this season, and I’m really impressed with my consistency and mentality going into every match. Our team will have some good additions from HMS, but most importantly, we’ll have guys who will work their tails off in the offseason.”
Billman also praised the team’s seniors. “For our graduating seniors, Hunter and Johnathon have both been growing in their playing, along with our young group. Having two seniors who hadn’t played before can be tricky, but they’ve both had really good moments this season.”
The Bulldogs started the season with high expectations but have struggled, sitting at 0-16. “Every week is a challenge in its own way,” said senior Wiley Mott. The Bulldogs will compete in regionals Wednesday, hoping to turn their season around.
“Noah Billman is the heart of the team, known for his calm demeanor and precision on the green,” said Mott. However, other players have taken their place as pillars of the upcoming team. Freshman Kaden Golish has emerged as a young star, quickly becoming one of the top players in his first season.
Johnathon Carlton, a senior, has continued his leadership from last year. Even with a less-than-ideal start, Carlton has kept the team energized and positive even when things weren’t working out in their favor. The Bulldogs have two matches left to earn a win, with Senior Night on Tuesday, Oct. 1, offering one last chance to put a victory on the board. They will take on long-time rival Eldorado that night.
Looking to the future, the Bulldogs are optimistic about the development of young players such as Golish, Billman, and Mott.
“Kaden Golish has a bright future ahead of him,” said Mott. “We’ve learned so much this year. No matter what happens next, we’ve become a stronger team. This season didn’t go the way we hoped, but we’re looking ahead to the future.” Billman added, “You have a lot of older teams in Southern Illinois, and we definitely have the youngest core of players.”
