Local golfers punch tickets to State

LAKEWOOD – The Lena High golf team is moving on to the Division 3 State Tournament after finishing in 2nd place with a team score of 317, just behind Bonduel in 1st place with a card of 313 at McCauslin Brook Golf Club in Lakewood on Tuesday, May 28. 

With the Wildcats and the Bears locking up the two advancing team spots, St. Thomas Aquinas senior Kaiden Bailey was one of the three individuals making the cut with a round of 76, sending him to state for the fourth time. He tied for the second best outing of the day behind gold medal winner Braden McVane of Lena, who carded a 75 to lead the field. 

Mason Spice shot a 77, Drake Dionne an 81, Mason Belongia an 84 and Evan VanderZanden an 85.

“I’ve got to admit, when we posted 317, I thought that would be enough. But give Bonduel credit, they shot an incredible back nine,” said Lena head coach John Moe. “I am very proud of the way the kids played, Bonduel was just better on this day.”

STAA head coach Tom Drees added some praise for his team’s state-bound golfer.

“This is quite an accomplishment, to make one trip, let alone four,” Drees said of Bailey’s achievements on the links. “Kaiden brings a lot of experience to the tournament. I am excited for him and his future!” 

Marines, Bulldogs, Panthers finish season at sectionals

LUXEMBURG – TimesLand’s Division 2 golf teams saw their seasons end after coming up short for qualifying out of the sectional round on Wednesday, May 29 at Northbrook. 

Marinette’s Brady Eastman finished in a three-way tie for ninth place in a tough field with a card of 78. Kadyn Riel of Oconto Falls was in a six-way tie for 12th at 79 and Nick Mans fired a 104 to lead Peshtigo by coming in a two-way tie for 66th place.