Quincy Notre Dame girls golf team is gearing up for an exciting season with high hopes and expectations. Head coach Jason Knuffman is confident in his team’s abilities, stating that this may be the most talented group he has coached since he started in 2017. With a history of success, including multiple state tournament appearances and top-six finishes, the Raiders are aiming to make a strong statement this year.
One standout player on the team is Belle Boudreau, who narrowly missed out on a state berth last year. Despite a strong performance at the Roxana Sectional, Boudreau found herself in a sudden death playoff for the final state spot. Unfortunately, she missed a crucial putt, ending the Raiders‘ hopes. However, Boudreau is determined to bounce back this season and has set her sights on shooting low 80s or even 70s to secure a spot at state.
Coach Knuffman praises Boudreau’s consistency and strategic approach to the game. He highlights her strong ball striking and course management skills, noting her ability to understand when to go for it and when to play it safe. Boudreau’s unique way of calming herself down by thinking about dance reflects her mental toughness and resilience on the course.
Another key player on the team is senior Meredith Eversman, who brings senior leadership and a competitive edge to the Raiders. Eversman, who initially had no experience in golf, has shown tremendous growth over the years and is now vying for the team’s top spot. Coach Knuffman commends Eversman’s progress and describes her as „small but mighty,“ capable of delivering low scores on any given day.
Joining Boudreau and Eversman are freshmen Natalie Druffel and Nancy Scholz, who have already made a strong impression with their performances at the Quincy Junior City Tournament. Druffel and Scholz both showcased their skills at the IESA state tournament last fall, indicating their potential to make a significant impact on the team. Coach Knuffman is optimistic about their abilities and believes they will contribute greatly to the team’s success.
The Raiders will kick off their season at the Lady Titan Golf Tournament, followed by the West Central Conference Tournament at Westview Golf Course. With a talented roster and a determined mindset, Quincy Notre Dame girls golf team is poised to make waves in the upcoming season. As they strive for excellence and aim for a state berth, the team’s dedication and hard work will undoubtedly pay off on the course.