Senior Tiernan Logan shot a 2-over-par 73 on Thursday as the Ankeny Centennial boys’ golf team opened its season by posting a 296 total in a triangular meet at Terrace Hills. The Jaguars lost to both Dowling Catholic (284) and Johnston (292).
Logan helped Centennial to a ninth-place finish in last year’s Class 4A state meet at Briarwood Golf Club. He placed fourth on the team with a 39.24 average as a junior.
Here is some inside info on Logan:
Did you play in a lot of tournaments this summer, and if so, how did you do?
Yes, I played in junior tournaments all summer. I didn’t play great during the tournaments this summer as I was making a major swing change. It took a few weeks to get comfortable, but once I committed to the swing change I hit the ball a lot better.
Were you happy with how you played on Thursday?
I really struggled all day so I wasn’t very happy about the overall performance. However, I was OK with the score I put up with what my game had to offer Thursday.
What was your most memorable shot of the day?
The most memorable one was on hole 17. It’s a long par 3, and I hit a 4 iron to 20 feet. It was really the only well-struck iron I hit all day so it was a nice way to end the day.
What is the strongest part of your game right now?
I would say it is probably my driver. I have a lot of confidence with that club right now, and I know I’m going to get it in play.
What did you think of your team’s performance?
I thought we played decently. I know some of the guys didn’t put up the scores they wanted, but for a lot of them it was their first varsity event. We also had a few JV guys put up scores that we would have used for varsity so that’s really exciting.
Ten of the Jaguars’ 12 golfers broke 80, so I know coach Andrew Reedy is thrilled about this team’s depth. Do you think the varsity lineup could change frequently throughout the season, and do you think the competition for those spots can help the squad?
I think the varsity lineup could change quite a bit during the beginning of the season. However, as the season progresses, I doubt it will change much just because we need guys with lots of tournament reps for the postseason. I think the competition can be good if guys take it the right way. I think it could make them play sharper and always be ready. At the same time, if guys play scared or are afraid to make mistakes, it could hurt their scores.
Obviously, Dowling and Johnston showed that they will both be tough teams to beat this season. What other teams in the CIML Conference do you think will be formidable?
I think both Valley and Waukee Northwest are two very tough teams. Both of them have some very good players at the top of their lineup.
Do you have a favorite course to play in the Des Moines area?
My favorite is probably Glen Oaks because I really like the design and challenge of it. However, I grew up playing Ankeny Golf and Country Club all the time so I really enjoy playing there with my friends and family.
What are your goals for the season?
I think right now my main goal is to make the state tournament. We’ve made it the two years I have played varsity, and it would be awesome to get back there one last time as a senior. I’m certain the goal will change as the season goes on and the team progresses.
Are you planning to play golf in college?
I am not planning to play.
What are your plans for next year?
I plan on attending Iowa State and majoring in finance. I may play some tournaments next summer, but I look forward to enjoying golf and playing with my family and friends.