Falls golf prepares for divisional tournament

THOMPSON FALLS – With divisional golf right around the corner, Thompson Falls had only one day of practice to utilize on Monday, May 12 in preparation for the competition.

The team has had a strong showing as of late, keeping with the speed of a solid season. Taking second place in the Seeley-Swan Invitational hosted at the Canyon River Golf Course, the Bluehawks were just three swings behind Loyola, one of their biggest competitors.

In what Head Coach Gary Thompson called their best performance of the year, Thompson Falls was able to follow closely behind Loyola while not knowing the course, showing off their true talent.

“We did play at Canyon River at the Seeley Invite and we shot 316 there, which is the best we’ve done all year and we’ve never played that course,” Coach Thompson said. “Loyola won it with 313 and they play that course at least once a week so we figure that was a good showing.” 

Before the Seeley Invite, Thompson held their own invitational where the team also took second, three shots behind Loyola. 

Divisionals will take place in Bigfork, a course the Bluehawks know as good as any other team except for the hosts.

“We’re optimistic,” Coach Thompson said.

Recently the team has undergone some changes as their number four player went off to train to be a Hot Shot for the Forest Service. 

“That was kind of disappointing, but our number five player is pretty tough and our one, two and three players have been playing really well,” Coach Thompson said.

With Jake Smith no more, Greg Wadsworth is stepping up to fill the number four position. Along with Caleb Bates, William Gallivan and Dalton Hooten, the boys are ready to give it their all in an effort to make it to state. 

Coach Thompson thinks it’s more than doable. 

“We are close. Hopefully we can do that well when push comes to shove at the divisionals and then at state, too,” Thompson said looking back at their close matches.

The top 15 individuals and the top four teams will go on to state. With eleven teams in their division, Thompson Falls has to be at the top of their game to ensure a spot. So far, the team has fared well and are expected to continue to do so. 

Coach Thompson said divisionals is one day that can make you or break you. The boys will give it their all on the last day of practice before the tournament to make sure they are prepared. 

“It’s just fine tuning. You just have to hope your focus is good and you’re not having problems with your swing at that time,” Coach Thompson said.