Tahlequah golf has a big advantage to their roster this season: senior presence.
The top four golfers are seniors. Kaden Tibbetts, Easton Blackbird, Jordan Dreafulwater and Cash McAlvain occupy the top spots for the Tigers, while Tate Shepard is battling a full field for the fifth bag.
“My top four golfers are seniors, so maturity and experience will be our biggest asset and should be the reason for improvement,” THS golf’s Nick Baker said. “I expect big things from [our seniors]. They have experience, work hard, and are determined to have a successful season. Tate Shepherd has shown improvement going into this season and has hopes to crack the fifth spot in his final season.”
Tibbetts is looking to cap off a successful career this year. As the No. 1 golfer since he was a freshman, Tibbetts has secured a spot in the State Tournament.
“He has qualified for state all three years prior to this season,” Baker said. “He had a strong finish at the State Preview, shooting 76 at Muskogee Country Club, and I expect him to make a strong showing in the State Tournament this year.”
Tibbetts led the way, earning a spot in the top 10 with his 76 in the first meet of the year. The rest of the Tigers fared well in the State Preview, with the team finishing in fourth place.
“[That] gives the team confidence going forward,” Baker said. “We have an experienced team with four seniors, which should help us have some good finishes in the remaining events.”
The Tigers are back in action, hosting the Tiger Invite at 9 a.m. Monday, March 31.
“We want to see gradual improvement throughout the season, so we will be confident for the Regional Tournament and State,” Baker said. “The guys love golf and work hard to get better and will be ready for the playoffs.”
