Team-Oriented Approach Leads Wells to Victory as All-Area Girls’ Golfer of the Year

On November 26, the St. Thomas More girls’ golf team coach, Kim Zahrn, reminisced about a standout moment from the past season. Her players burst into song, belting out Christmas carols on their trip back to Champaign from Effingham in September, setting the tone for an unforgettable bonding experience.

Junior golfer Ashley Wells fondly recalled the impromptu sing-along as one of her favorite off-the-course memories, adding a touch of whimsy and festive spirit to the journey home. The camaraderie extended onto the golf course, with the team’s musical escapades continuing on their way to the Class 1A Westville Regional, much to the chagrin of assistant coach Tony Zahrn, who admitted to being driven mad by the festive tunes.

Wells, focused on her game, clinched the low medalist honors and propelled the team to its first regional title since 2020, leading to a jubilant celebration with her teammates. Her success continued beyond the regional victory, culminating in an individual qualification for the state finals, a significant milestone in her high school golf career.

Reflecting on Wells’ achievements, Coach Kim Zahrn highlighted her belief in Wells’ potential, citing the junior’s athleticism and remarkable progress throughout the season. As the season came to a close, Wells earned the prestigious title of the News-Gazette girls’ Golfer of the Year, a well-deserved recognition of her hard work and dedication to the sport.

While Wells’s individual success has been rewarding, her true passion lies in fostering a strong sense of team spirit. She embraced the role of a leader, uniting her teammates and creating an environment where everyone felt valued and motivated. Looking ahead, Wells is determined to lead her team back to the state finals, with the goal of creating more meaningful and memorable experiences both on and off the golf course.

As the exciting prospects for next season take shape, the St. Thomas More girls’ golf team is gearing up with laughs and festive tunes, planning for more joyous sing-alongs and bonding moments, hoping to bring a touch of Christmas spirit to their future journeys on the golf course.

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Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller takes readers to the greens with his passion for golf. He offers coverage of major golf tournaments, player achievements, and insights into the sport’s rich history, making him a trusted source for golf enthusiasts.