How proud were you to have a golfer reach the level Sophia Kay did?
Head Coach Abby Lundy: It was all the feels, including happy tears. To go from 2,000 plus golfers at sectionals down to 108 at state is a major accomplishment.
What were the emotions of the team while supporting Sophia?
Lundy: With having such a young team and only one senior, Sophia, the team was so excited to watch her through this process. I believe it has made them want to work even harder to earn their spot in the future at state.
What are the major differences from when you were competing to now as a coach?
Lundy: Playing Division 1 golf in college myself taught me how to be a better athlete. I know what it takes to reach the next level with practice, time management and patience. The expectations are much different and hold you more accountable as an athlete and student. I played under a Division 1 College golfer, and I know she was able to help me achieve my goals at the next level. I hope I influenced Sophia to reach hers.
What is the biggest difference in competition? Based on level, how much tougher did it get?
Lundy: Girls golf has gotten more competitive with more access to summer tournaments and year-round golf. There are golf simulators in the winter, allowing golfers to practice year-round. More student-athletes are just concentrating on one sport now. When I played, there were way more two to three sport athletes.
Are there major differences from when you made it to the state to now?
Lundy: Yes, all golfers who make it to state are guaranteed two rounds of golf. When I played, round one was a qualifier for round two, and a cut score was given after round one. Half the field only played one round. State was also held a week later, which led to colder fall weather.
What are the goals for next year’s team?
Lundy: Next year, we aspire to make it out of regionals as a team to qualify for state.
Is there someone who can fill the void Sophia is leaving?
Lundy: No one will ever fill the void, but I do believe, with off-season practice and hard work, we will have a solid top five again next season.
Is state the new expectation?
Lundy: Yes, it is always a coach’s expectation, but now that it is a reality, it feels more achievable next season.
