The upcoming season for both the boys and girls high school golf teams promises to be an exciting one, with a strong returning roster and fresh talent eager to contribute. Both teams were conference champions last season, and with a mix of experienced athletes and new faces, both teams are gearing up for what could be another successful year. The Gators started practice on March 17 indoors, with only one outdoor practice held so far, due to weather conditions. The outdoor session, which took place behind the Badger School, gave the team the opportunity to hit balls outside and see the true flight of a real ball, which was a welcome change after several days of being inside. Although weather has limited their time outside, the team has been making the most of their indoor sessions, focusing on refining their skills.
Boys Team: A Strong Leadership Foundation
The boys’ golf team returns a seasoned group of athletes, including two captains—seniors Danyn Janousek and Masen Swenson— who led the team last year. Both Danyn and Masen bring invaluable leadership and experience, having advanced to the state golf meet in Becker, Minnesota, in 2024. They will be key players as the team looks to build on their previous success.
Also returning to the team is 8th grader Ty Grinsteiner, the youngest of the group of state-advancers last season. Grinsteiner, who demonstrated the ability to perform under pressure at such a young age, makes him a key asset to the team as he continues to develop his game. Junior Tryg Olson and sophomore Eli Olafson were part of the post-season team last year, and their return adds depth and stability to the team. Additionally, sophomore Kayden Hanson, who did not make the post-season team last year, is determined to make a strong impact this season. With his dedication, Kayden is certain to have a successful year.
New to the boys’ team this year is seventh grader Nils Christianson, who is eager to begin his high school career. Nils has shown some natural ability, and the coaches are looking for good things to transpire for him as the season progresses.
The team’s preparations for the upcoming season show that the players are eager to see how their hard work will translate on the course. With key returning athletes and a renewed sense of determination, the boys’ team is ready for the challenge ahead.
Girls Team Ready to Defend their State Appearance
On the girls’ side, the team is coming off a successful season in which they advanced to the state meet. This year, the squad is led by juniors Emily Burkel and Ava Christianson, who were instrumental in the team’s postseason success last year. Both players have shown consistent improvement and are ready to lead the team once again.
Senior Bethanie VonEnde, the girls team captain, brings leadership and experience to the group. With her guidance, the girls’ team has the opportunity to continue their success from the previous season.
Returning golfers also include Zairyn Wimpfheimer, Khloe Fletcher, and Clara Bergsnev. These athletes have shown steady improvement and will play a significant role in the team’s pursuit of another strong season. The girls’ team also boasts a healthy roster of 10 golfers, adding to the excitement surrounding the team this year.
An interesting dynamic on the girls’ team is the competition for a spot on the postseason team. With no seniors graduating from last year’s state-advancing team, they have a lot of talent returning, and it will be exciting to see which six golfers make the postseason cut.
Mya Bennett and Cale Lindland, though not part of the postseason team last year, are returning and have shown determination to earn their spot in the upcoming season. In addition, newcomers Kayle Vacura and Amity Foss bring fresh energy to the team. Kayle, a junior who is relatively new to golf, has shown promise in practice. Amity, a seventh grader, has exhibited a solid, natural swing and great potential for growth.
Looking Ahead Both teams have demonstrated dedication in practice, and with the leadership of seasoned players and the incoming new talent, it’s clear that the BGMR Gators are set for strong seasons. The competition within the teams, as well as the drive to make the postseason, promises to create an exciting dynamic this year. It will be interesting to see how the season unfolds and which players rise to the occasion, ensuring that the golf program remains a formidable force in the area. The future looks bright for both teams, and as the season progresses, these athletes will continue to give it their all, striving to make their mark both locally and the ultimate goal - at the state level.
