As the 2024-25 girls golf season begins, so do the memories and lessons that take place at Armuchee High School. High School golf coach, Coach Barwick said, “It’s been a fun and great experience this year working with these girls”. Their efforts exemplified at tournaments reflects the work and dedication taken place behind the scenes. Although only two girls dominate this team, their teamwork and dedication create a positive environment ultimately contributing to the team’s success. Under the leadership of dedicated Coach Barwick, the girls golf team can execute not only just a successful season, but confidence and life lessons used in everyday living. Sophmore student, Ella-Kate Holloway said, “Golf has helped me with confidence”. A takeaway from being part of the golf team is gaining confidence. The practice has led to the players being more secure in their performance resulting in a higher boost of confidence. Golf is not only about the achievements, but provides the players with personal growth, discipline, and lasting memories.
The girls golf team has helped each individual with their personal growth. Senior student, Allie Stockton said, “It has taught me not to give up when having a rough round.” Allie is able to take what she learned beyond just the field. This life lesson can also be applicable in other sports of the classroom as well. Ella-Kate said, “Golf has taught me patience.” The lessons learned in golf support the everyday challenges that players and students encounter. Many times throughout the school year there are instances when a level of patience and endurance is needed. Such as schoolwork or personal issues. The valuable lessons learned in golf extend beyond the field and into the trials that people are faced with.
The Golf team has not only provided the players with personal gain, but has broadened their sense of community. Ella-Kate said, “Armuchee golf has had a huge impact on my outlook of Armuchee highschool, it’s gotten me closer with the girls I play with.” Players have formed bonds with eachother that overall benefit their well being. Coach Barwick said, “I enjoy the connections with the kids and getting to know all of them.” As new friendships are made, so are the memories. One tradition is to bring candy before a match. Ella-Kate said, “For a tournament we always bring gummy worms and go to the clubhouse.” With the time spent on golf, this has had the influence of forming new bonds and directing these individuals into the right direction.
Behind the scenes of the girls golf team, friendships are not the only part. Discipline is a concept that becomes evident not just in their performance, but through the reflection of the players. While at practice a variety of tasks are done. Coach Barwick said, “ Punting practice, going to the range, or playing on the course.” These are all the activities that take place behind the scenes. The hard work and discipline going into the practices have led the players to their success. As golf might appear easy, it’s not that way. Ella-Kate said, “People looking to join Golf will first think it’s easy, but it’s not.” The skill that is built in golf is a skill developed over time with consistency and determination. Allie said, “It will take awhile to get better so take your time and listen to the criticism coach Barwick gives you”. After putting in the efforts to get better it will happen. A difference will only be made through the patience and hard work which these players have learned and exemplified.
The Girl’s High School Golf Team is not as easy going as it may seem. The students have proven that hard work and patience does pay off. No matter the practice times, an early or intense match, these athletes have been able to positively impact their school through their performance. In 2014 they set a school record by shooting 43 and 52. Despite the friendships made, the players did not fall short with representing their school. With every strike and hit, the players are only better preparing themselves for the future. Coach Barwick said, “The results improve each time.” As the team impproves and so does each player’s mindset this sets the stage for a better and brighter future. The foundation has been set for better seasons which could benefit future players. Ella-Kate said, “Everyone should play golf atleast once”. Golf is more than a game, but provides opportunities for friendships, learning, and personal growth.
