Coach reflects on successful season

   With the boys golf season over, Monticello coach Curt Tauke had time to reflect on the Panthers’ performances and hopes for the future.

   Monticello finished fifth in the district tournament May 16 in Wapello.

   “Overall I’m very proud of these kids,” Tauke said. “They finished fifth, only one stroke out of fourth, and there were quality teams there.

   “Cole Welter played really well, his best 18-hole performance, with an 82. He was only two strokes out of qualifying for state.

   “Ethan Long had another solid performance. He really came on the last half of the year.

   “Blaine Brighton struggled a little bit, but still had a very strong performance with an 85.

   “I thought Easton Prull played well for us; he just ran into some trouble on one of the nines, but shot a very respectable 42 on the back nine. Lucas Foust played well on the front nine, so both guys showed that they can play pretty good golf.”

   Counting tournament opponents, the Panthers compiled a record of 37-18.

   “I’m just really happy with this team and how they performed all year long, and how they continued to improve throughout the year,” Tauke said.

   “I think there are some great things to look forward to from this group, as we will return all six boys who started and played at the sectional and district meet.”