Whitcomb aces team relationships as golf squad transitions through season of change
According to the fine folks at pga.com, golfers bag a hole in one once in every 3,500 rounds. In the history of West golf, it has never happened. Senior Tessa Whitcomb put both of those stats to bed when she drilled her ace at Grand View Golf Club on September 15.
Whitcomb will cherish this season-defining moment.
“It was incredible,” she said. “I didn’t even know about it at first until I went to get my ball, and it was in the hole. It was definitely a moment I’ll never forget.”
Whitcomb accomplished this on a 135-yard par 3. For her, this was the best memory from the season, but not the only treasure memory.
“Getting to know all of my teammates and making all these friendships has been amazing,” she said. “Along with all of the team bonding we have done, even if that’s just the bus rides to meets, those are some of my favorite memories.”
This close bond supports through the round. If they’re struggling or just need a little boost they know their teammates will be there for them. Sophomore Hailey Hammen enjoys her time on the squad.
“We often have early morning practices, and we’ll get breakfast together,” she said. “We’re like sisters, and we have a great bond with each other.”
Hammen also gains benefits from the supportive leadership.
“The coaches make it really easy to work things out, and they’re really encouraging,” she said.
This proved especially helpful in a transitional year.
“We lost very important team members last year,” she said. “It was a big change, but I think we recovered well.”
For junior Kellyn Zehner, the coaches supply much needed energy and juice.
“Powers always brings the best snacks, and Brandl’s outfits are always the best,” shesaid. “It's great to see that.”
Zehner appreciates the weather and the season.
“It’s nice to sometimes take a break from everything else and just be outside,” she said. “It's a good destresser. I enjoy the nice fall weather and walking around while golfing.”
The girls experienced a mixed season as many people improved individually but the team had room for improvement.
“This season wasn't our best, but hopefully next year we can get some people to sectionals,” Hammen said.
Despite bumps in the road, the Wildcats were able to win a couple matches that lifted their spirits.
“Our win over Oshkosh North was pretty big,” Hammen said. “We did pretty good at regionals too, so that was really big for us”
Hopes are high for the future. As hard as it is for the seniors to walk away, they are confident in the team they leave behind.
“I have faith in all of my teammates,” Whitcomb said. “I know they all have great potential and can do wonderful things, and I hope they keep it up.”
Zehner shares similar desires and goals.
“I hope we bounce off each other and just keep improving and recruit more people,” she said. “Golf may seem boring, but it’s actually a really fun sport to do.”
For Whitcomb, the hole in one pales in significance to athletic camaraderie.
“I’m most grateful for all of the connections and friendships I’ve made,” she said. “It was nice being on the team, and it was a good experience.”
By Addi Isely
Oshkosh West Index Volume 119 Issue II
October 31 2022