News Summary

Benton High School’s girls golf team has triumphed once more, clinching the Division I girls state championship at Les Vieux Chenes Golf Club. Battling through rain delays, the Tigers finished with an impressive score of 5-under-par 215, outpacing Barbe High School by 12 strokes. Sophomore Grace Goodwin and senior Abigail McWilliams led the team, each showcasing exceptional skills throughout the competition. As Coach Tim Cram prepares for retirement, this victory marks a significant milestone for the program, celebrating both talent and teamwork in high school golf.

Exciting Times in Benton: High School Girls Golf Team Celebrates Championship Win!

What a thrilling moment for the residents of Benton as Benton High School’s girls golf team has done it again! They clinched the Division I girls state championship once more, bringing home the prestigious title for the second consecutive year. This amazing achievement took place at the beautiful Les Vieux Chenes Golf Club in nearby Youngsville, and let’s just say, the drama and excitement didn’t stop there!

The Final Countdown

With the tournament in full swing, the skies decided to unleash a bit of a downpour. Just as the players completed their first nine holes, rain began to fall. Players and coaches sat tight for about two-and-a-half hours, hoping the weather would turn in their favor. Unfortunately, Mother Nature had different plans and the tournament was officially called following those initial nine holes.

Stellar Performance on a Chilly Day

Despite the weather, the Benton Tigers showcased a fabulous performance with an impressive final score of 5-under-par 215 over the 27 holes. Sophomore Grace Goodwin and senior Abigail McWilliams led the charge, delivering a spectacular score of 1-over 73 on the front nine. They proved that even under pressure, Benton knows how to make it happen!

Barbe High School finished in second place, trailing Benton by a hefty 12 strokes after the first 18-hole round on Monday. They ended with a score of 12-over 232, leaving them far behind Benton’s dominant finish!

Individual Excellence

In the quest for individual honors, Goodwin and McWilliams didn’t just play well; they totally knocked it out of the park! Goodwin secured an unbelievable score of 3-under par throughout the tournament and came in second place for the medalist competition. McWilliams wasn’t too far behind, finishing just one stroke off from Goodwin. Her scorecard was marked with a triumph of one bogey and two birdies, showcasing her incredible skill on the course.

A Coach’s Legacy

This championship win is even more bittersweet as Coach Tim Cram prepares to retire after an impressive coaching career that began in 1997. During his time, he’s led the Benton golf program to seven boys and two girls state championships, including five consecutive Division II titles from 2012 to 2016. His legacy is cemented not just in trophies, but in the bonds he’s formed with his players.

Coach Cram expressed feelings of gratitude mixed with emotions as he reflects on his time with the athletes and the supportive parents who stood by them through countless practices and tournaments. Not to forget, Robby McWilliams, Abigail’s father and swing coach, has played a crucial part in nurturing young talents over the years, often assisting in their development.

Looking Ahead

As Benton High School savors their sweet victory, they are also looking toward the future. The Tiger’s boys team also showed a strong performance at the Division I boys tournament, with senior Kade Bryant tying for 17th place. Yet, the excitement belongs to the girls this time, stepping into the spotlight under the watchful eyes of their supportive community.

The final day’s competition was nothing short of extraordinary, filled with challenges, victories, and heartfelt connections as the teams continue their legacy in the world of high school golf.

So, let’s raise a toast to Benton High School’s girls golf team for another fantastic win! With so much talent and determination, who knows what the future holds? There’s more excitement to come, and Benton is ready to take it all on!

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