Newton girls have right golf recipe for success in 2017

Using a solid program foundation, Newton High’s girls have a mix of returners and newcomers to push forward into the 2017 golf season. The Cardinal girls’ golf program has built a tradition of developing consistent golfers to score well as a team.

Scott Enyart enters his 16th year as NHS girls’ golf head coach with Alison Grier as his assistant coach. Enyart said he expects this year’s team of eight players to continue on the path paved by Newton’s strong tradition.

“We embrace our tradition Yes, our dynamic is different because of graduation, but we really like who we are this season,” Enyart said. “When you have a lot of room to improve across the board and you have girls who are motivated to improve, it is a recipe for success.”

Newton has three returning varsity players in senior Lizzy Coyle and juniors Taylor Dydell and Alayna Reynolds. Coyle had a nine-hole average of 57 and an 18-hole average of 109 last year. Dydell came with a nine-hole average of 60.67 and 18-hole average of 110 at the end of last year. Reynolds put together a nine-hole average of 60 and an 18-hole average of 111.86.

Also back are two junior varsity golfers in second-year senior Erin Van Sickle and junior Tory Church. The Cardinals have three newcomers in freshman Jordon Pritchard and sophomores AriealLum and Danielle Ambers.

“Our three returning letter winners have a solid year of varsity experience as they contributed last year. Now, they are the main contributors and they are ready to take that on,” Enyart said. “They have a lot to pass on to the other girls as they know what it takes to compete at the varsity level.”

Enyart said Coyle made strides on the golf course last year after a strong bowling season. He said she continues to improve her short game. Coyle has consistent swings off the tee, but needs to work on accuracy in placing the ball, Enyart said.

Dydell has the capability for strong drives off tee, but the accuracy of the drives is a point of focus this season, Enyart said. He said Dydell is pretty good around and on the greens.

As for Reynolds, Enyart said she has a well-round game and a certain mindset when she’s playing. He said Reynolds has a routine she is committed to as she plays which works for her.

“Erin and Tory have come in with a higher confidence level this season. I expect Jordon to contribute this season even as a freshman, because of her golfing background,” Enyart said.

Working on the short game — putting and chipping — is something all eight golfers are doing. Enyart said once the team develops those skills work will begin on ball striking.

“I’m excited about watching this group grow and improve. They have the motivation. We have the potential of having a successful season with our three returners helping to pull up the others as the season progresses,” Enyart said.

“Is it going to be easy? No. Is it going to be fun? Yes. Is it going to be rewarding? Yes.”

Newton finished second in the Little Hawkeye Conference tournament a year ago. The Cardinals were 4-1 in LHC dual play and they finished fourth in the Class 4A regional tournament.

The Cardinal girls are two weeks out from the start of their 2017 season. They open at the Urbandale Invitational on April 10 then host Oskaloosa and Pella in LHC play on April 11 at Westwood Golf Course.

Contact Jocelyn Sheets at
641-792-3121 ext. 6535
or jsheets@newtondailynews.com