News Summary

In Andrews, the atmosphere is electric as senior golfer Emme Darnold gears up for her last high school tournament at the UIL Girls Class 4A State Championships on April 28-29. Darnold, the only senior on the team, hopes to secure her school’s third consecutive state title while also transitioning to collegiate golf at Midwestern State University. With the Lady Mustangs’ strong history and recent victories, the team is optimistic about achieving another championship success as they face challenges and moments of determination in their final matches.

Excitement Brews in Andrews as Senior Golfer Emme Darnold Prepares for Final High School Tournament

As the beautiful spring days roll in, a buzz of excitement fills the air in Andrews. Senior golfer Emme Darnold is gearing up for her last high school golf tournament at the UIL Girls Class 4A State Championships taking place on April 28-29 at the stunning Legends Golf Course in Kingsland. This event marks a significant milestone for Darnold, but she’s expressing more excitement than emotion as the day approaches, though she anticipates those feelings may hit her once it’s all over.

Chasing Glory: The Andrews Lady Mustangs Eye a Third State Title

The pressure is on for the Andrews Lady Mustangs, who are aiming not only for their third consecutive state title but also for their impressive overall 20th title. Last year, Darnold demonstrated her skills by finishing 10th individually, racking up a score of 72-80—152. Her team, the Lady Mustangs, ruled the tournament and finished with a collective score of 297-309—606, leaving second-place Seminole a staggering 43 strokes behind.

If you’re keeping track, Darnold has been a consistent contender at the state level, securing fourth place the year before with a score of 74-78—152. The momentum is with her, as the Lady Mustangs recently claimed victory at the Region I-4A title by a whopping 59 strokes, with Darnold herself finishing with a commendable 74-76—150.

Stepping into New Chapters

Darnold stands out as the lone senior on the current Andrews girls golf team, but she’s ready to take her talents to collegiate golf at Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas. She felt an instant connection during her visit there, and it felt just like home. The camaraderie with both the coach and players only adds to her excitement as she transitions out of high school.

Challenges and Triumphs: A Reflective Senior Year

This season hasn’t been without its challenges for Darnold. She admits that she hasn’t always reached her personal best, but her determination shines through as she aims to not just succeed on an individual level but also to help her team capture that coveted third state title. Darnold emphasizes the importance of teamwork in this big pursuit.

Also cheering her on are her teammates, including junior Sloane Livingston and junior Abby Ballou, along with first-time state participants junior Nichole Thomas-Subia and sophomore Emma Sauceda. Their melting pot of experience – with Darnold bringing three years of state championship participation – spells a unique mix that could lead them to a promising outcome.

Comfort in Tradition and Strategy

The Lady Mustangs boast a notable history in golf, being qualified for either the girls’ or boys’ state tournaments for an impressive 40 consecutive years. Their recent victory at the Class 4A State Preview Tournament, won by 38 strokes, adds to the team’s confidence as they prepare for the upcoming championship. Coach Mark Burgen believes that having a strong history helps settle the nerves, especially for newcomers participating in their first state tournament.

With a solid foundation and a focus on their established game plan, the Lady Mustangs are looking to navigate the state tournament without succumbing to unnecessary pressure. The team put forth a commendable score of 308-304—612 in the recent Region I tournament. Darnold and her teammates are feeling confident, stating they are playing solid golf and are ready to bring home another championship title.

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