After the program took a forced year off due to COVID-19, the Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn girls retured to the golf course April 6 to host Hinton. The Hawks lost the War Eagle Conference meet 204-221 at Sanborn Golf and Country Club.
With the absence of competition last year, new HMS coach Cheryl Kroese looked to the ladies who have experience in meet situations to mentor the younger athletes in their practices. Seniors were prominent against Hinton as Emily Sindt shot a 53, Darby Mastbergen a 59 and Elle Mastbergen a 61. Due to an injury in 2019, Sindt had not golfed in a high school meet since 2018. The mentoring aspect was also evident as sophomore Elise Haack fired the Hawks’ low round of 50 while freshman Kinsey Schirmer carded a 59 and sophomore Emma Schmillen a 64.
“Overall I was happy with the performance of the girls,” said Kroese. “As expected early in the season, we need to get better at being consistent with our game. I was excited to have Elise come in third overall as this was her first time as a varsity competitor. I am looking forward to the remainder of the season!”
Prior to the first meet, Kroese had shared her objectives for the 2021 campaign. “My goals for the season are centered around the girls developing a deeper understanding of the game of golf, along with working hard to represent HMS in a positive manner,” said the coach. “As with any varsity level of competition, we are working towards continuous improvement in the game. I’m excited to get the season started!”
Team scores: Hinton 204, HMS 221.
Placings: 1st, Hailey Rosenbaum (Hinton), 49 (won tiebreaker); 2nd, Mia Fleckenstein (Hinton), 49; 3rd, Elise Haack (HMS), 50 (won tiebreaker).
HMS varsity scores: Elise Haack 50, Emily Sindt 53, Darby Mastbergen 59, Kinsey Schirmer 59, Elle Mastbergen 61, Emma Schmillen 64.