Washington continues state golf tradition

The fuse was lit six years ago, leading to the explosion of the Washington boys golf program.Demons Coach Mark Berhow recalled how then-sophomore Braden Gaal qualified for state and the impact it made.“That was kind of the beginning of everything,” Berhow said. “We've had a lot of quality golfers. We're thankful to have that kind of dedication.“Once we got the ball rolling, guys get excited and they want to play in summer tournaments and are dedicated to practice.”The Demons will make their fifth straight Iowa High School Athletic Association Class 3A state meet appearance today at Ames Golf and Country Club. First round begins at noon.Washington has been one of the most consistent teams at state since 2008, placing fifth or higher each season. Coming off a runner-up finish last year, The Demons seniors were third as freshmen.“The talent is equal to those teams,” Berhow said. “We've not played as consistent as some of the teams in the past. We're looking for that consistency to return for us.”Alex Thode will play in his fourth state tournament. There is not pressure to continue the tradition, although a desire to improve each year exists.“We try not to worry about it,” said Thode, who tied for 11th individually last year. “You always want to beat that previous team. It's not something we're going to think about in the round. It's a goal we have to always better ourselves.”The Demons have been in contention, leading the team race after the first day last year. It is the one spot they haven't claimed and it would be an achievement for more than just the team.“We've been really close every year,” Thode said. “If we could come home with the trophy, that would really mean a lot, not just for our team but even for the community of Washington.”The four top teams from a year ago return. Clear Lake will try to defend its team title, while Decorah will battle to leap frog both the Lions and Demons. Williamsburg, fourth last year, and Fairfield topped Washington at district. The Demons are prepped for the test.“We have a solid team one through six, and we're going to have to have four solid scores, but there are a lot of good teams,” Thode said. “If we can get everything clicking on the right days I think we have a good chance.”Berhow said course management will be important to success, trusting in their club and shot selection and balancing aggressive and conservative play.“I think our team will be able to put up some good scores,” Washington junior Dillon de Perrot said.A trio of seniors - Thode, Brock Kimball and Jake Redlinger - and de Perrot will be relied on to lead the way.“(Kimball and Redlinger) have been vital for our success as well,” Berhow said. “For us to be in the top three or four, those guys have to score well for us.”de Perrot also has been a major factor in the postseason success. He earned sectional medalist honors and posted a runner-up medalist performance at district, losing in a playoff to Williamsburg's Drew Slings. de Perrot has the perfect approach for the postseason.“He has that enjoyment for the game,” Berhow said. “In pressure situations, he's been able to go with the flow. I think it's one of those things that sets him apart from some of the other golfers.”Thode has made the biggest contributions in his career. Berhow praised Thode for his integrity on and off the course, noting that he informed scorekeepers at a past tournament they had his score wrong and the correction led to Washington settling for second. Thode will be missed when he goes to play for Lewis (Ill.) University next year.“He's been a crucial part of our teams,” Berhow said. “He's not a rah-rah guy. He's a quiet leader by example in what he does and how he encourages the other guys. He's an invaluable member of our team.”Thode tied for 15th as a sophomore. He does not own a goal for a specific score or place after the two-day event. Thode said he wants to be at the top of his game.“I just want to plat the best two rounds of golf that I can and help my team in any way,” Thode said. “If I relax and play my game I think the rest will take care of itself.”In 2A, North Cedar qualified in the team field and Iowa City Regina freshman Grant Hogan qualified as an individual.Belle Plaine could contend for a top finish in the 1A team race, while Valley Community senior Levi Fink reached state individually.