Marion golf team shows promise
Staff writer
Although Marion High School has a smaller golf team this year, co-coach Thane Schwartz is still determined to teach his players the game of golf — and how to be accountable, even when no one is watching.
“It’s an important life skill to have,” the second-year coach said. “Golf gives them a chance to practice it.”
Schwartz and co-coach Lucas King direct the Marion High School golf team, featuring six players. Three golfers — Hogan Lovelady Jared Hague, and Aaron Molleker — are returning letter-winners, having played more than two games at varsity level. Other members are: Dylan Goebel, Lauren McLinden, and Brandt Stephenson.
Schwartz said the team had not practiced much on the green, but that has not stopped them from developing their swing.
“You’ve got to follow through,” Schwartz told his players during a mini-practice session last Thursday. “Otherwise, you won’t hit the ball.”
Schwartz said the team has the basics of the game, but now they need to refine their technique. This year, he wants his players to focus on playing around the green.
“The kids usually focus on the tee,” he said. “They want to make sure they’re hitting the ball. But they’ve also got to learn to look and see where it is going.”
Schwartz said he is impressed with the quality of the Marion team this year — and is looking forward to seeing how they improve as players throughout the season. At this point, Schwartz said he has four standout players.
“Hogan is a pretty good one to watch; he’s almost pro,” Schwartz said. “Aaron has good drive, so does Jared. Lauren does a good job of keeping it on the green as well.”
The team’s first golf tournament is at 1 p.m. April 2 in Herrington. Schwartz said he hopes the local golf ranges dry out soon, so that the team can practice on the green before their first meet.