The Adair County High School girls’ golf team has built more than a winning tradition over the past five years – it has created a legacy of teamwork and lasting impact.
Coached by Ashley Goodin and Robin Loy, the team practices at The Pines, where the players have learned that while golf may be an individual sport, success is often strengthened by the support and spirit of a team.
The team cherishes the memories and strong friendships they’ve made while on the golf team. Five girls make up the competitive team and the coaches choose who will play at each contest, so the girls also have healthy competition against each other.
Considering this, it’s important that the girls support each other through wins and losses. Ella Brown said that is the core of the team’s mission.
“When one of us wins, we all win; we’re very happy for each other,” she said.
This is the case for Ila Loy, a freshman who was the team’s only qualifier of the 2A state tournament.
“I’m glad to be able to make that accomplishment,” she said, adding that she’s very excited for this opportunity.
The team’s atmosphere is full of motivation, friendships, and continuous improvement.
Laney Inchcliff said she appreciates her team and the people around her.
“Find good people, friendship and coaches to motivate you,” she said.
Claire Loy, a multisport athlete with five years of golf experience, added, “I love the friendships and bonds we’ve made. We’ve grown better together.”
She also notes the coaches’ understanding, saying “Having good, understanding coaches make it easy to be active in everything.”
Many other girls on the team are multisport athletes and credit their coaches’ understanding. This flexibility is particularly appreciated by athletes, such as Ella Brown, who balances multiple sports. Her coaches’ accommodating schedules allow her to manage her overlapping commitments, highlighting the supportive element the team provides.
On Saturday, the girls competed in the Kentucky Invitational Tournament at Lakewood Country Club held in Russell County. The team consisted of Ila Loy, Ashley Loy, Claire Loy, Laney Inchcliff, and Ella Brown. The team overall placed first in the tournament, but singularly, Ila Loy shot +3, 74 and won third in the scorecard playoff.
“We have big accomplishments.” Claire said. In September, the team is hosting its first home tournament, the Lady Indians Invitational.
The team continues to battle for a spot in the Kentucky Golf Coaches Association All-State Championship tournament increasing their ranking from 15 to 12. The top 15 teams qualify for the All -State Championship tournament.
By Lily Coots
reporter@adairvoice.com
