Warrior golfers look to letter-winners for leadership
by Eric Clark
Staff Writer
Facing one of the toughest regionals in Class 3A, the Marion Warrior golf team will rely on "quality" rather than "quantity," according to Doug Dick, who begins his ninth season as head coach.
"It's tough to go to state out of our district," Dick said. "Collegiate and Hesston, they grow golfers out there. Our district is basically the state tournament. It's just stiff competition at our regional."
Despite the tough road ahead, Dick said he thinks that with hard work and determination his team has great shot at competing.
"Even though we're slim, we're a lot better than last year," Dick said. "All these guys want to compete. The kids are chipping and putting before I even get out here to practice. Their attitude is the best it's been since I've been here."
The Warriors have begun a weight-lifting and lower-body workout program that Dick said will help condition his golfers.
"We're trying to condition our golfers like college coaches condition their athletes," Dick said.
Marion finished third in the Cottonwood Valley League last season as a team. The 2003 team yields 12 golfers total, and includes four who will be on the team intermittently throughout the year.
Junior Nickolas Hett leads the Warrior linksters as the No. 1 position golfer. Hett finished fifth at the regional tournament last season and is excited about his chance this year.
"I think I have a good chance because I'm hitting the ball harder and I'm a lot more consistent," Hett said.
According to Dick, the team will rely on Hett. But one of the biggest concerns for the MHS coach, is who will be his No. 2 man.
"Nick has high hopes, but we're wondering who will be his two-man," Dick said. "Hopefully someone will step into that role. Right now, it looks like Nick Carlson will probably challenge for that spot."
Juniors Joe Svitak, Hett, and sophomores Justin Brookens, and Carlson are the lone returning letter winners from last season's team.
Dick said he expects big things from his returnees along with sophomores John Whitwell and Trevor Jones.
"I want the kids to achieve goals individually, but they know that we are trying to succeed as a team," Dick said.
According to sources close to the team, Marion is being eyed by the Kansas State High School Activities Association as a possible site for the regional golf tournament.
Last year, Marion was slated to host the event, but because of the poor shape of the greens, it was moved to the Hillsboro Municipal Golf Course.
Dick said that if Marion hosts the regional his team's chances of advancing to state may increase.
"If we do host the regional that's a big advantage for our team," Dick said.
The Warriors begin their season next Thursday when they travel to Herington. Tee-time is scheduled for 1 p.m.
