By Molly Seales
On Tuesday, April 25, the Riverdale Academy golf team traveled to Brandon, MS, to defend their Class AA state title. The Rebels also won the championship in 2021 and were looking to make it a 3-peat. Under the direction of first year coach Taylor Yount, the Rebels did just that, edging out Prentiss Christian Academy by 2 strokes. Coach Taylor is very proud of this team and said, “The miles logged, the courses played, and the bonds forged will last beyond this golf season. Good job my guys! Way to chip and putt.”
Senior Mason Murray captured his 4th state title with the win. His first came when he was a 7th grader, and his other three were his sophomore, junior, and senior years. Mason said, “Most people don’t get to experience one state championship in their lifetime, but for me to have won four is crazy. I’m blessed to have support around me to allow me to be the very best golfer I can be. You can do anything you want with determination and perseverance.” This year Mason had the 2nd best individual score in Class AA.
This was the first taste of a state championship for Coach Taylor and senior Jace Wilhite, and it was a great feeling for them. The other 3 golf team members have tasted that victory before, and the feeling was just as sweet. Senior Thad Bates won his 2nd state championship in a row, and junior Ryder Huddleston won his 3rd championship in a row. 7th grader Jackson Hillman added another championship to go with the one he won last year as a 6th grader. All of these golfers are very dedicated and put in lots of practice year-round at the Coushatta Country Club.
We will miss Mason, Thad, and Jace as they graduate and move on to the next chapter in their lives. We wish Ryder and Jackson the best of luck as they go for four in a row next year. Congratulations guys and Coach Taylor!
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