New journeys begin where another one ends. As freshman Lilas Rountree begins her first season of high school golf, Coach Mark Veneklasen is preparing to close out his final year leading the program.
For Rountree the season is more than just a new sport, it is an experience she was thankful to have with Veneklasen.
“We actually were shocked and sad at the same time,” Rountree said. “We were hoping he would be our golf coach again next year.”
While the underclassmen are just beginning, upperclassmen like junior Caroline Regier are adapting to what the season will be like without him next year. This adjustment will be difficult as she approaches the end of her junior season. However, she is grateful for the years she has had Veneklasen as her coach.
“I look forward to competing at Regionals and State,” Regier said. “I’m hoping that we can compete for the top spot at both.”
Regier gives credit to her development as a golfer to Veneklasen. She also appreciates his holistic approach to coaching. He has helped Regier improve her game by teaching her to evaluate all options before she takes a swing.
“He is the nicest coach, and he lets his players establish their own style and identity as a golfer,” Regier said.
As the season comes to a close, the girls team hopes he will continue to love the sport.
“We just hope that he has a wonderful time and will still continue his favorite hobby, which is golf,” Rountree said.
