This week the team got to experience amazing conditions at the iconic Kooyonga Golf Club. We were up against a notably strong Royal Adelaide team hitting off the 10th hole.
Zac Goers (14) was back in the team this week playing young Alston Ma (23). In a very tight fought battle all day Zac and Alston were square through 12 holes. Alston took a narrow lead and was two up with two to play but Zac was determined to play the 9th hole for the first time – winning the 8th hole. Alston sealed the win with an incredible birdie on the last to take the match 2up.
At number two this week Gareth Thien (21) played Liam Hutchinson (25). Out to a quick 2 up after two lead, Liam won the next two in a row to get the match back to square. In a tight battle all day Gareth hung in but was 2 down with 3 to play. The notorious 7th hole par 3 was unfortunately the end for Gareth going down 3/2.
Jayden McGrath (25) battled young Freddie White (26). After a quick grip correction, Jayden started finding fairways. Although his length was a definite advantage, Freddie’s pinpoint accuracy was hard to overcome. Again, very close through 12 holes Jayden also fell victim on the 7th with a 3/2 loss.
At number 4, Ben Yin (35) played Hugo Junin (35). Finding himself 2 down after 2, Ben battled away and was still only two back after 9. Ben fought hard right to the end but was unfortunately defeated 5/3. Despite the loss Ben kept a smile on his face all day and his attitude was fantastic.
Holly O’Connell (44) played her first game for the year against Finn Higgins (40). It was definitely a battle for Holly as it had been a while since she had played. She learnt to play tactical golf and utilise different techniques to win holes. At 7 down with 7 to play Holly found herself in thick rough on the par 3, 3rd hole. Her opponent had to take an unplayable so Holly played backwards down the fairway to ensure she scored to win the hole to keep the game alive. A great lesson for all of us that match play is a strategic game and sometimes we need to think outside the square. Holly lost the next to lose 7/5 but had a smile on her face all day and fought hard. Welcome back!
Cooper Lessue (18) was reserve today against Archie Karamalis (40). Cooper fought hard on the front nine in a close tussle but Archie hurt his back and had to forfeit after nine. Cooper then supported Holly and the rest of the team.
Damia Muadz was not in the team today but gave up her time to come and support her teammates. She helped out with scoring, as well as manning the watermelon and lolly station for me. She asked lots of questions about strategy and learned a lot while providing great enthusiasm and support for the team.
Although we lost 5/0 the kids were upbeat and again used the experience to learn more about the game and ways they can improve.
After the match all the kids have decided that if they are not in the team next week they would like to make the trek to Tea Tree Gully to provide moral support for their team mates against Thaxted Park.
I could not be prouder of this group of young golfers. They are respectful, positive, and always willing and eager to learn. The club should be very proud to be represented now and in the future by such a wonderful group of players.
Christine Trimmer
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