Offseason work pays off for Schnieders

MARION - Matt Schnieders work between varsity golf seasons has powered him in his last for the Marion Indians.

The Marion senior increased his efforts in the offseason and has reaped the rewards as he sits one strong round away from state as district golf meets begin Friday in Class 1A, 2A and 3A. Schnieders will compete in an Iowa HIgh School Athletic Association 3A district at Stone Creek Golf Club in Williamsburg.

Schnieders attributed improvements to added weight training and playing more golf last summer. Schnieders worked out with Indians all-state linebacker Jake McDonald, calling him a great motivator. It improved his stamina and strike the ball better.

"I definitely have more energy," Schnieders said. "I can drive the ball a lot farther."

Marion Coach Dave Messerli has noticed a different in Schnieders play this season. Being in better shape has helped Schnieders, a started since his freshman, perform the way he has wanted almost every meet.

"He's been very consistent," Messerli said. "He's playing real well under pressure. I think that's one thing that has been neat to watch Matt grow up.

"Every year he has become more confident."

Messerli said the two have discussed improved conditioning previously, but Schnieders wanted to maked the most of his last chance as a prep.

"I think he just really got after it," Messerli said. "I'm really proud of him in that way."

Both agree that his putting have been a key factor in his improvement. He has corrected his routine on the green and started taking advantage of birdie opportunities.

"I've been slowing down, marking the ball, taking my time, lining up the putts and keeping my head down," Schnieders said. "I've been sinking some long ones."

Schnieders has been impressive lately. After winning medalist honors at a meet in Monticello, he placed third at the Wamac Super Meet, which included about 90 golfers, before scoring a 2-under-par 70 for medalist honors at last week's sectional meet at Saddleback Ridge Golf Course in Solon.

"He's worked really hard for what he's got," Messerli said. "He's deserving of the accomplishments

This opportunity has been long-awaited opportunity and Schnieders said reaching the 3A state meet would be his crowning achievement.

"That would be my biggest accomplishment," said Schnieders, who plans to attend Kirkwood and would like to play golf for the Eagles next year. "That's my biggest goal. I think it's definitely possible."

Top four individuals and ties and top two teams will advance to the state tournament. If one of the top two teams competes in a district at their regular-season home course then the third-place team will also advance.