As head coach Jon Garfield looked at the upcoming season on the golf course, he knew two things for sure. First, he had the top Class 6A golfer and reigning state champion back for another season. Second, the team was retuning some younger players who has another year of experience under their belts.
“A young team last year that comes back with experience and the reigning individual champion. A great group of young men committed to competing at the highest level,” said coach Garfield.
The return of Preston Albee is big for Choctaw. As a team, the Yellowjackets do not have a state title, but Albee made the history books last season by winning the Class 6A individual title helping solidify Choctaw golf and forcing others to take notice.
“An incredible young man who has been instrumental in putting Choctaw Golf on the map. Leader, obsessed with his game but more devoted to team success,” said coach Garfield.
That obsession has motivated other players including one with a bright future. Parker Albee is a sophomore with a name everyone will recognize. Coach Garfield said this season is his opportunity to make his presence felt and to follow the path blazed by Preston.
“A varsity member for all varsity tournaments as a freshman. Enormously talented, looking to announce his arrival with some experience this year,” said coach Garfield.
Golfers like Corey Boles, Eli Coleman and Sam White have become the unsung heroes of the team. Their continued improvement has placed new expectations on the team.
“A varsity member last year as a junior, rededicated his game this offseason and will make a lot of noise this season as our unrivaled two-bag. Has lofty ambitions and a great leader for our team,” Garfield said. “Coleman is an underrated golfer that was up and down as a junior. Knows nothing but to work harder for his goal, should be a difference maker this spring.”
The schedule doesn’t take any breaks for the Yellowjackets. With only regionals and the state tournament left on the schedule, the team is poised for possibly their best season on record. The state competition is set to start on May 6th at The Oaks Country Club.
