Marion extends season with runner-up sectional finish, holds hope for second straight boys’ state golf berth

MARION – The discussion at the beginning was about the potential.

The message has shifted to performance and the opportunity earned by the Marion boys’ golf team.,

“At the beginning of the year, we talked to them that you’ve got to believe this is going to be an outstanding year,” Marion Coach Dave Messerli said. “As it has progressed, we talked to them about the expectations and the idea you are a good golf team. You’re one of the best golf teams in the state.”

Marion placed second at the Class 2A sectional meet Wednesday at Gardner Golf Course, advancing to the district tournament Monday. The Wolves have the chance for a second straight state berth and needs a top-three finish.

Marion returned four starters from last year’s state squad. The Wolves have won three tournaments, including the Wamac Conference Super Meet Monday in Grinnell, edging Independence 306-308.

“We’ve had a really good season,” Messerli said. “We have some kids playing really well. We had six lettermen back this year and some with a lot of experience and some without as much. They’ve sort of meshed well together.

“We’re doing a good job. A lot of kids have improved their scores from last year. We’re excited about our chances.”

Sophomore Grady Oleson and junior Asher Castenson have emerged as the top-two scorers this season. Oleson, who was the sectional runner-up medalist, leads the team with 39.08 combined adjusted average. Castenson comes in at 39.65. Junior Calvin Andresen shot 74 to lead the team, one stroke ahead of Oleson, at the Wamac Super Meet. Jake Skogman, Jackson Rinderknecht and Mason Tumilty have alternated in the other three starting positions.

They have played in highly-competitive events where multiple teams were separated by just a few shots. Outside of West Delaware’s dominant win with 296 Wednesday, the next three teams were three strokes apart.

Success comes when they embrace the pressure.

“It’s different ,” Messerli said. “It’s exciting for the kids, the parents and the coaches. It’s fun.”

The Wolves exude a quiet demeanor but Messerli said they do have moments of goofiness to break the monotony. They also have a duality to their approach. Marion has demonstrated focus and determination and is still able remain relaxed and have fun, especially during big meets.

“It’s a tough mix to have,” Messerli said. “It’s also important to have that relaxed attitude plus the ability to bear down in the clutch.”

Marion joins Wamac foes Solon and West Delaware, Decorah, Washington (Iowa) and West Liberty in the team field. The Hawks will host the district meet at Pin Oak Links in Manchester and are favorites with Solon.

The Wolves have experienced recent postseason success at that course.

“I think that it’s helpful in the respect we won the sectional there,” Messerli said. “Mentally, they’ve got to believe they can play well there.

“Hopefully, we’ll feel comfortable at Pin Oak.”

MFL MARMAC WINS SECTIONAL CROWN

MFL MarMac captured a sectional team title Wednesday at Pleasant Valley Sports Club in Clermont. The Bulldogs shot 310, beating runner-up Oelwein by four and third-place by seven strokes.

All four MFL scorers finished in the top nine. Quinn McGeough led the way with 76. Jarett Hanson and Ben Krambeer added 77 and 78, respectively. Wesley Corlett rounded out the scoring with 79.

Waukon’s Dylan Stegen earned medalist honors with 69. All three teams move on to district play Monday at Fox Ridge Golf Course in Dike.

STATE QUALIFYING INFORMATION

Boys’ golf teams will compete in district meets Monday. The top-three teams and the top-two individuals, including ties, from non-qualifying teams will advance to the state tournament May 27-28.

The 3A state tournament will be held at Pheasant Ridge Golf Course in Cedar Falls. Waterloo Will host both the 1A and 2A state tournament. 2A will compete at Gates Park Golf Course, while 1A is set for South Hills Golf Course.

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