On May 5, Wylie’s Boys Varsity Golf team heads to the State Championship for the first time in 17 years and in 5A-DII play. In their quest for state, the team has played through crazy winds, a mad swarm of bees, and now Wylie Golf alumni!
Trey Todd ‘03, Todd Womble ‘04, Tanner Evans ‘08, Taylor Grant ‘13, Curry Jones ‘14, and Karson Grigsby ‘22 brought their A-game to help prepare the team for next week. Trey Todd, a two-time individual state champion and inductee in the Big Country Athletic Hall of Fame, said he and the others were there to provide a competitive environment.
“The best thing you can do is give yourself the most competition as possible to get in the mindset,” said Todd.
The tournament, held this past Friday (5/2) at Abilene Country Club’s south course, paired each varsity player with a former player. Chris Curington, father of varsity player Jack Curington, organized the tournament.
“I knew of several really good players that had come through Wylie in past years. The boys knew of them but didn’t really know them. There are some really accomplished alumni players, and I thought they might enjoy getting to know some of the current players. It turns out that was true,” said Curington.
After a round of golf, they all enjoyed a meal together, courtesy of The Shed, and talked golf.
“Some of the alumni shared some of their experiences in big golf tournaments,” said Curington. “We have the best high school golf coach in Texas, but to hear similar messages from new voices phrased differently can sometimes hit differently.”
Junior Jack Cole, who was partnered with Tanner Evans, said the opportunity to play with more experienced golfers was welcomed and fun.
“It was great experience just to hear their stories about golf and life and to hear some advice from experienced golfers,” said Cole.
Curington said he thought the event was successful on many levels.
“Everyone seemed to have a good time, and I hope the high school players learned something from the former players,” said Curington. “I know they have new friends and that’s a big deal, too.”
The varsity team, which holds back-to-back district champions title, have played together for many years. Four of the five playing together since participating in Wylie’s Junior High Golf program. Best of luck to senior Casen James, juniors Jack Cole, Jack Curington, Reece Templeton and Carson Groban!
By Kristen Johnson