Last year’s attempt at a full-length season did not go as planned, but the Etowah boys’ golf team is teeing off its new season with hopes of finishing out every planned tournament. Tryouts took place in February, and the team of ten was announced on Feb. 10.

Jake Harris, boys’ golf coach for the past six years, has been planning for the last several months to help improve the team this season.

“Experience [of golf] mixed with youth and excitement is usually a good combo on the course in team play,” Harris said.

The team will practice four days a week switching between the Eagle Watch and Towne Lake Hills courses. Players compete in six 18-hole events and three two-day, 36-hole events. 

With sights set on a win at the prized Area Tournament at Kinderlou Forest in Valdosta, the team is gearing up to practice until it is ready. The top two finishers at this event will qualify for the State Championship. In 2003 and 2005, the Etowah boys’ golf team won state championships, and this year’s group hopes to bring back the title to Eagle Mountain. 

“I enjoy watching our golfers get better from year to year. Seeing the growth for some guys from their freshmen to senior seasons is incredible,” Harris said.

As for COVID regulations, there are some changes during tournaments such as golfers using their own equipment instead of sharing. Since golf is a socially distant and outdoor sport, the team has an advantage over other sports at Etowah. 

“I am excited to play and have fun this season,” Josh Stephenson, senior, said.

Congratulations to the new 2021 Etowah boys’ golf team.