For as long as Dixie Crain can remember, golf has always been a part of her life. Her father, Rusty, took Dixie out on the course when she was very young and bought her a kid golf set.
Even back then, Dixie recalled having a natural swing.
Bringing in experience from tournaments throughout the years, Dixie has already made her presence known in Springtown as a freshman by becoming a District 7-4A champion Monday.
With a combined score of 143, the Lady Porcupine had the best overall score of any competitor and beat out the second-place finisher for the girls by 49 strokes.
“It feels great,” said Dixie about the profound win. ”I get that there hasn’t really been a big golf team in Springtown, so being able to do that means a lot to me.”
As one of the youngest team members, Dixie’s efforts have laid the groundwork for the program, according to head coach Jason Riley.
“She’s really pushed us and pushed a lot of the girls to get more involved,” said Riley. “We had a full JV and varsity girls golf team for the first time in a long time and a lot of that is contributed to Dixie. She’s a great teammate and a positive person that they like being around. It’s been the ultimate kind of recruiting tool.”
During her title win, Dixie knew she was on a winning pace but tried not to let it impact her play. Over the last couple of years, improving her mentality in the sport was a major focus for Dixie.
“That part of this game is really hard once you hit that curve,” said Dixie. I’ve started to overcome it since my last couple of tournaments.”
Heading into the regional championship on April 14-15 in Lubbock, Dixie’s confidence outweighs her inexperience with the course. The positive mindset is a vital part of Riley’s coaching style toward Dixie in her attempt to further a successful first season.
“I want her to feel confident on every shot at every opportunity,” said Riley. “I don’t try to over coach her. If I tell her something, more often than not she’s already thought of it. She’s the ultimate competitor.”
Dixie will take her first regional appearance as a learning experience regardless of the result. Understanding the disadvantages of upperclassmen from other schools knowing the course, she’s ready to compete whether she shoots well or not.
Dixie believes there’s a lot she can do in the following three years and there’s no limit to her game.
“If I can do something great and hopefully leave my name in Springtown that would be amazing.”
