Area golf teams to watch

BOYS' GOLF TEAMS

DYERSVILLE BECKMAN

Coach: Darin Michels (11th year)

Returning starters: Jimmy Fagerlind, jr.; Mitch Gansemer, sr.; Bennet Klostermann, jr.; Ryan Steffen, jr.

Outlook: For the second straight season the Blazers return their top four scorers from a state qualifying team. This season, they're all upperclassmen and very experienced, hoping to improve on their last two state finishes. Look for them to achieve that goal and finish in the top five of a loaded Wamac conference.

Coach's comment:

We're going to take it meet by meet ... They're real focused this year." - Darin Michels

SOLON

Coach: Adam Stahle (2nd Year)

Returning starters: Blake Bruene, sr.; Bubba Carter, jr.; Nathan Fordice, jr.; Kyler Stahle, sr.

Outlook: Solon will attempt to return to the state meet after a year absence from a state runner-up finish in 2007. They have talent, powered by Kyler Stahle, who placed fourth at state last year. Their success will depend on their efforts to improve and produce consistent scores.

Coach's comment:

"The general attitude of every kid on the team is outstanding. It's been a pleasure to work with all of them." - Adam Stahle

WASHINGTON (IOWA)

Coach: Mark Berhow (3rd Year)

Returning Starters: Kyle Blakeney, sr.; Braden Gaal, sr.; Joseph Harris, so.; Kaleb Rich, jr.; Nick Witthoft, sr.

Outlook: The Demons return their top five golfers from last year's fourth-place state squad. Seniors Braden Gaal, who placed ninth at state, and Kyle Blakeney, who tied for 14th, lead the way. They have the talent to improve that finish in what could be a very competitive Class 3A field.

Coach's comment:

"I think we can be very successful this season. We have to continue to improve and manage the course." - Mark Berhow 

GIRLS' GOLF TEAMS

CEDAR RAPIDS KENNEDY

Coach: Julie Bush (11th year)

Returning starters: Paige Beene, sr.; Sophie Bielefeldt, sr.; Emily Wilson, sr.; Alex Zenor, sr.

Outlook: Four state meet performers highlight a senior-laden lineup for the Cougars, who won a regional title last year, and reached state for the first time since 1993. Alex Zenor, who tied for 14th at the Class 4A state meet, is one of the area's best. Expect more success this year.

Coach's comment: "We're trying to improve each day," - Julie Bush

IOWA CITY REGINA

Coach: Jeremy Burk (5th year)

Returning starters: Tory Beaver, sr.; Katie Feuerbach, sr.; Missie Feuerbach, sr.; Emma Hopson, so.; Cathern Strief, so.

Outlook: The Regals have been one of the better area teams the last few years. The two-time defending CRANDIC champions were kept away from the state meet by two of the top three teams at the 2A state meet. Leadership and experience are in place for a strong year.

Coach's comment: "It's going to be fun. It's already an exciting season because of the excitement they bring every day."

IOWA CITY WEST

Coach: Mary Goodfellow (11th Year)

Returning starters: Ginny Collins, sr.; Bailee Goodfellow, sr.; Madison Goodfellow, so.; Brookelyn Klemesrud, jr.; Chelsea Sherlock, jr.; Melissa Wiechert, so.

Outlook:  Iowa City West has the making of a competitive team. The Women of Troy were CRANDIC runners-up last year. All of their top three players are back. Three others with varsity experience will vie for the fourth scoring spot.

Coach's comment: "We look forward to the season. If Bailee, Brooke and Madi all (play well) on the same day we will be able to produce some strong scores."