Willmar’s Kennedy Mara Shines in Section 8AAA Golf Tournament

The recent Section 8AAA Tournament held at the Headwaters Golf Club showcased impressive talent, notably from Willmar’s own Kennedy Mara. With her commendable performance, Mara has qualified for the state tournament, an achievement that highlights her dedication and skill in the sport of golf.

Mara’s Stellar Performance

Kennedy Mara emerged as a standout competitor in the tournament, concluding the final round with a remarkable 79. This exceptional score allowed her to finish the two-round event with a total of 161, securing a fourth-place finish overall. Her performance was critical, particularly as she soared past many competitors, solidifying her spot at the state level.

Alexandria Claims the Team Title

In tandem with individual accomplishments, Alexandria’s Ellie Sticha clinched the section title with an impressive score of 157, further propelling her team to victory. Alexandria demonstrated their dominance by winning the team championship, showcasing not only individual excellence but also exceptional teamwork and strategy.

Willmar’s Team Performance

Willmar’s girls’ golf team secured a commendable third place in the tournament, finishing with a combined score of 704. Alexandria topped the leaderboard with a total of 662, while Moorhead followed closely behind with 696. Despite not winning, Willmar’s performance reflects the hard work and dedication of its players, mirroring Coach Bryan Mara’s sentiments about their commendable season.

Coach’s Pride in the Team

Reflecting on the season’s achievements, Willmar head coach Bryan Mara expressed immense pride in his team. "Another season in the books," he stated. The camaraderie among the players and their mutual support were key components of their overall success, contributing to a fulfilling, enjoyable experience throughout the season.

Upcoming State Championship

Kennedy Mara’s qualification for the state Class AAA girls golf tournament is a significant milestone in her young career. Scheduled for June 10-11 at Bunker Hills Golf Club in Coon Rapids, the state tournament will be an opportunity for Mara to showcase her skills on a larger stage. The spotlight will be on her as she competes against the best in Minnesota.

Section Tournament Standings

The final standings for the Section 8AAA Tournament are noteworthy. Alexandria secured the first-place team position with scores of 328 and 334, totaling 662. Moorhead followed in second with scores of 356 and 340, while Willmar placed third, scoring 353 and 351. These results highlight the competitive nature of the tournament, underscoring the talent present in the area.

Top Individual Performers

Among the top individual performers was Ellie Sticha from Alexandria, who finished with a remarkable score of 157, followed by Becker’s Layla Mathews at 159 and Sartell’s Gwen Latunski at 160. Kennedy Mara’s strong showing at 161 placed her fourth, demonstrating her consistent performance and capability in high-pressure situations.

Additional Willmar Competitors

Willmar’s Lucia Martin Rodriguez also showcased her talent, placing in a tie for seventh with a score of 168, narrowly missing out on a state bid due to a playoff loss. Other team members like Raelynn Means, Lily Jorgenson, and Avery Olson contributed to the team’s efforts, showcasing their potential for growth in future seasons.

Aden Jacobson’s Success Continues

On the boys’ side, Willmar sophomore Aden Jacobson is similarly making waves. With a tie for second place at the Greystone Golf Club in Sauk Centre, Jacobson shot rounds of 71 and 69, culminating in a total score of 140. His performance mirrors that of Mara, as both athletes are set to represent Willmar at the state tournament, further emphasizing the depth of talent in the program.

Looking Ahead

As the dust settles on the Section 8AAA Tournament, both Kennedy Mara and Aden Jacobson prepare for the challenge ahead at the state tournament. A blend of individual skill and team collaboration lays the groundwork for Willmar’s promising future in golf. With the state Class AAA tournament just around the corner, all eyes will be on these rising stars as they strive for excellence on the greens of Bunker Hills Golf Club.

This article encapsulates the excitement and achievements from the Section 8AAA Tournament, highlighting the individual performances and the strength of Willmar’s golf teams. As these athletes gear up for the state championship, their stories inspire countless others to pursue excellence in golf and sportsmanship.