Last hurrah: Linn-Mar’s Christian Cloyd excited for final postseason push

Linn-Mar’s Christian Cloyd can still remember what it was like as a freshman in his first varsity golf meet.

He has done a lot since that competition, winning medals, earning honors and reaching the state tournament. The Lions’ senior finds himself in a bittersweet situation, entering his last postseason.

“Honestly, it feels unreal, like high school has just flown by,” Cloyd said. “Very excited but also upset that this is the last go.”

Cloyd will attempt to return to the Class 4A state tournament when districts across the state begin Monday. The Lions are part of the 14-team field at Pheasant Ridge Golf Course.

“I think he’s been anticipating this postseason for the last few weeks,” Linn-Mar Coach Chris James said. “He’s had an up and down season for him but he’s been able to overcome some challenges and seems to be playing his best golf right now.”

The first-team all-Mississippi Valley Conference performer tied for second at the final MVC Mississippi divisional last week. He has posted a 72.25 18-hole average and 37.47 combined adjusted average.

Cloyd said he started the season well and has overcome a midseason slump. The last four or five meets have been better. He hopes to continue that in the qualifier.

“Not many changes,” Cloyd said about his approach, “but just focusing on one hole at a time and realizing it’s no different than every other meet.”

Cloyd is a two-time state qualifier, placing eighth last season and 12th as a sophomore. He has played well when it has mattered most and has the chance for one more strong finish.

“He is definitely capable of putting a run together,” James said. “However, he knows as well as anyone the amount of concentration, confidence, and mental toughness it will take. He’s got to just worry about the things he can control, like his mindset, attitude, decision-making, and effort. If he does those things and plays with patience and poise, he is just as capable as anyone else.”

The district includes Cedar Falls, Cedar Rapids Jefferson, Cedar Rapids Kennedy, Cedar Rapids Prairie, Cedar Rapids Washington, Cedar Rapids Xavier, Dubuque Hempstead, Dubuque Senior, Dubuque Wahlert, Iowa City West, Waterloo East, Waterloo West and Western Dubuque. The meet resembles the MVC Super Meet.

Cloyd has played with and against many of the competitors, which could make him more comfortable.

“I think it helps being familiar with the teams and players,” Cloyd said. “Helps make it feel more normal.”

Xavier and Prairie were division team champions and should contend for the three team qualifying spots. Linn-Mar was second to Xavier, while Wahlert was runner-up to Prairie. Cedar Falls on their home course has a chance to finish in the top three.

Cloyd has his sights set on another state trip and would like to have some company.

“Obviously, my goal is to make (state) as a team,” Cloyd said. “We have been working for that all year and I would walk away happy with winning a state championship.”

Iowa City High and Iowa City Liberty travel to a district at Emeis Golf Course in Davenport. They will compete against Bettendorf, Burlington, Central DeWitt, Clinton, Davenport Assumption, Davenport public schools, Muscatine, North Scott, Ottumwa and host Pleasant Valley.

The state golf tournament is Oct. 13-14 at Hyperion Golf Club in Johnston.

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