The Grand Forks Red River girls golf team had a historic performance at this year’s East Region championship, finishing with a season-low score of 293. This may be the lowest score in over 20 years in girls golf in North Dakota. The team’s score was highlighted by an impressive individual performance from senior Jaya Grube, who shot a 69, the first sub-70 score of the year.
Last year, the team finished just one stroke shy of Fargo Davies in the EDC meet. Coming into this year, the Roughriders were determined to prove themselves if given the chance. And they certainly did, dominating the competition and claiming the East Region championship title.
The level of competition in girls golf in North Dakota has been rising steadily over the years, and this year’s scores are a testament to that. Last year, there were only three sub-320 scores in the East Region. This year, there were 17 sub-320 scores. The quality of play has improved, and it’s exciting to see so many low scores being shot.
Grube’s performance was exceptional, as she finished with a bogey-free round through 14 holes and secured her first EDC medalist honors. Despite running into some trouble with a double bogey on the 15th hole, she remained unfazed and even managed to get an eagle on the par-four 17th hole.
The team as a whole performed exceptionally well, with a total of 20 birdies or better on the day. Sophie Brakke finished with a 74, tying for third place, and Taylor Piepkorn finished with a 75, tying for fourth place. Ella Speidel also had a strong performance, shooting a 75 and tying for fourth place as well.
The team’s success is a result of their mental toughness and ability to maintain their focus and stamina throughout the day. Their mindset is to support and compete for each other, and it has clearly paid off. Coach Eric Sanders praised their team spirit and emphasized the importance of their unity.
Although this victory is a significant achievement for the Red River girls golf team, they are not resting on their laurels. They are looking forward to the next challenge at Grand Forks Country Club and hope to continue their strong performance against tough competition from the likes of Davies, Mandan, Sheyenne, and Wahpeton.
With their East Region championship title, Grube’s impressive individual performance, and Coach Sanders being named East Region coach of the year, the Red River Roughriders have certainly made a statement in girls golf in North Dakota. Their success is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and talent.