Two newcomers on the Ankeny girls’ golf team made impressive debuts on Tuesday in the Hawkettes’ season opener.
Jaci Webb carded a 43 to earn runner-up honors in a CIML Central Conference dual meet against Southeast Polk at Copper Creek. Fellow freshman Kelsey Hensen posted a 50 in her inaugural appearance.
“Those two stepped up big time,” said first-year Ankeny coach Seth Hagarty. “Jaci was only 3-over-par with two holes to play, but got in a bit of trouble on the last hole, which is the most difficult hole on the course. Kelsey was our second-leading scorer and even surprised me with her score. She was striking the ball very well.”
Southeast Polk won the meet, 183-204, on its home course. The Rams were led by Miranda Fickbohm, who shot a 42 to earn medalist honors.
Four of her teammates also posted scores in the 40s.
“It was great to finally get out and play a meet, and the weather cooperated just enough for the girls,” Hagarty said. “It was a bit breezy, but the sun was shining and that helped a ton.”
Rachel Moore fired a 55 for the Hawkettes. Emily Schon carded a 56, Lexi Russell had a 58, and Caroline Price added a 62.
“Overall, several of our girls were nervous for the first meet, and in the end they calmed down and played pretty well,” Hagarty said. “I am looking forward to (Wednesday’s Ankeny Centennial) Invitational at Briarwood as well as next week when we host our own invitational. We just need the weather to keep cooperating, and we will be just fine.”