Golfers find success at Sections, season heads to clubhouse

Mariposa County High School athletes Konnor Lobaugh and Kimo Verceles represented the Grizzlies golf team at Sections on May 5.

The match took place at Micke Grove Golf Course in Lodi.

“Konnor and Kimo did great at Sections,” said coach Jenna Jones.

Lobaugh shot a 95 and placed 42nd overall and Verceles shot a 123 and placed 98th.

“The course was super challenging with lots of water, bunkers and narrow fairways,” Jones explained.

“The wind was also killer on Monday and there were definitely some gusts that were 30 plus miles per hour, which can make a golf ball go a surprising distance off target.”

Despite the challenges, Lobaugh broke his personal best by shooting a 95.

“I’m really excited to see where his golf journey takes him next year,” Jones said.

As the season comes to a close, it’s evident the Grizzlies golf program has grown a lot and continues to gain traction.

“I’d like to reflect on what a great experience it was coaching the golf team this year,” the coach said.

“I truly enjoyed seeing the kids grow both in skill and character throughout the season.”

The players are what make the program what it is.

“We had a fantastic group that made practices and competitions both fun and engaging,” continued Jones.

“We expanded the roster to 13 players this season, but that made it challenging to manage playing time effectively.”

Next year, organizers plan to keep the team smaller to ensure more focused development for each player.

“I was fortunate to have outstanding leadership on the team. Our captains, Kimo and Konnor, were exceptional in setting the standard both on and off the course,” Jones said.

“Their dedication was instrumental in shaping a positive team culture and I couldn’t have asked for a better first-year coaching experience.”

It takes a village to make sports programs possible.

“I’d also like to extend my gratitude to everyone who supported the team, especially assistant coach Evan Standen and Steven Lobaugh, who generously volunteered their time to support us,” explained Jones.

“Looking ahead, we’re planning some fundraisers in the fall and would greatly appreciate the continued support of the Mariposa community.”

The program is always looking for donations and golf equipment.

“If anyone has items they’d like to donate, particularly push carts, they would be a tremendous help for our players,” Jones said.

“I look forward to building on our successes next year.”

Anyone interested in donating golf equipment can contact MCHS Athletic Director, Ryan Ballinger, at rballinger@mcusd.org.