A Not So New Face Takes a New Position

Recently, girl sports success has been a consistent thing at Galena High School. Achievements like Sweet 16 and Regional Championships in girls basketball, along with Conference and Regional Champs in volleyball are now a reality, not just a dream. Adding to the successes of basketball and volleyball we now have a chance for our girls golf team to make their mark with a new girls golf team and their new coach Jeff Hyde.

The golf team has always included girls, but numbers were not high enough to allow a separate team for boys and girls. With higher numbers, the program needs different coaches for each team. “It’s awesome to see so many girls out and interested in golf,” Girls Golf Coach Jeff Hyde said.

Although Jeff is a new coach for Galena, he isn’t new to the players. “I’ve worked for the Junior golfers and golf team for many years,” Hyde said, ”now I’ve finally had the opportunity to get a position.” Already having an experience with coaching some of the players gives Hyde the upper hand in how to work with the players.

A new coach brings new hope for the team as well. Having the opportunity for more one on one time with a coach helps expand the learning and skills of the players. “We like having more individualized practices,” varsity player April Oldenburg said. “It really helps us focus on what we need to improve on without having to wait forever to get the help we need.”

These more accomplished practices help improve each player individually, therefore leading better team scores overall. “Every stroke counts, so knowing how to angle the club or aiming your putt could mean all the difference.” Hyde said. “The talent is all up to the kids, I just tweak the little things to improve their skills.”

The girl’s golf season is currently over, they placed third in Conference.