East Buchanan continues golf success

East Buchanan's boys' golf team has picked up right where they left off last season.

The Bucs rank among the state's top Class 1A programs.

After a fourth-place finish at the state meet last season, East Buchanan is second in scoring average in 1A through seven meets this year. The Bucs only trail defending state champion Algona Garrigan in nine-hole, 18-hole and combined adjusted averages.

'We had a lot returning and had success last year,” East Buchanan Coach Scott Zhiss said. 'They've worked hard and had some pretty good results.”

The Bucs aren't concerned with bettering last year's finish. The focus is improvement throughout the season so they can play their best in the postseason.

'What I drill into them is to just keep improving,” Zhiss said. 'What they saw last year is what they can do.

'We have to get to that point. I think they have kept their noses down for the most part and it will work itself out.”

East Buchanan averages 159 per nine holes, meaning all four scorers combine for an average less than 40. They shot 320 in their only 18-hole event this season. They have developed balance and Zhiss was pleased to see the fifth and sixth golfers score in recent meets.

'We had a lot returning and had success last year,” Zhiss said. 'They've worked hard and had some pretty good results.”

Camaraderie has been a major component for the Bucs. Zhiss said his team routinely jokes around with one another and spends time together in the clubhouse after meets. He said he has even heard the team discuss academic assignments during practice. They also push each other to get better.

'They gel pretty well,” Zhiss said. 'They aren't afraid to take some instruction and work.”

Chris Cooksley leads the way with a 37.33 nine-hole average. He was impressive last year, winning the 1A state title as a freshman. Zhiss said Cooksley is a good putter with a strong short game and good distance with his shots. His ability to rise to the occasion in competition is one of his best qualities.

'He's got a pretty good all-around game,” Zhiss said. 'We saw it last year that he's not afraid of that moment or of competing. There's a lot to be said for that.”

Hunter Schulte and Tyler Hare have produced two additional low scores, averaging a little more than 40 per nine holes. Freshman Jacob Hesner has shown promise.

Zhiss said Hare has been one of the steadiest players on the team. Schulte's potential was apparent, tying for 10th at state.

'He's been solid,” Zhiss said. 'He hasn't had a bad day.

'Schulte had a good run last year and learned he could play a little bit. He played a lot of golf last summer.”

SCHWEINEFUS SHOOTS LOW

South Winneshiek's Logan Schweinefus averages an impressive 36.0 for nine holes this season. The Warriors' junior shares the state's low nine-hole round.

Schweinefus posted a 31 previously, tying East Union's Cole Campbell and Gilbert's Garret Jensen. Schweinefus and Campbell are in Class 2A, while Jensen is in 3A.

REGIONAL ASSIGNMENTS

The regional assignments for all five classes will be announced Monday by the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union. The IGHSAU will post regional fields and sites on its website.

The first round of regional competition is set for Monday, May 18. The second round of regional play will be Tuesday, May 26. State tournaments are June 1-2.

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