News Post

The St. Joseph’s Academy golf team finished fourth in the Louisiana High School Athletic Association’s Division I State Golf Tournament. The championship, shortened to 27 holes because of rainy weather, was held May 5 and 6 at the Les Vieux Chenes golf course in Youngsville. SJA recorded a team total of 249.

Freshman Scarlett Kirsch carded a 123 (80-43) to finish in the top 10. Senior Ava Heine wrapped up her SJA career with a 127 (85-42), and sophomore Berkley Reitzell shot a 130 (88-42).

Benton topped the field with a team total of 215, followed by Barbe at 232. Southside finished third (244), followed by the Redstickers. Nine teams competed for the state crown. 

First-year coach Michael Schoen said his team showed heart and poise throughout the 2025 season. They finished first in nine matches and second in two. They placed second in the Metro Golf Tournament and first in the Region I Division I Tournament. “Individually, each player strived for excellence, but collectively, they embodied a powerful determination, showing up to every competition, united in their representation of SJA and fellow teammates,” he said. “Although we came up short on our goal to bring a state championship back to SJA, this team exceeded each and every one of my expectations in my first year as head coach.”

Kirsch said she was especially excited to compete in her first state tournament with Heine and Reitzell. “It was a great experience to share with them, especially since it was the last time I would be playing with Ava,” she said. “We could only play 27 holes instead of the usual 36 because of the weather, but we were still able to try our best on the holes we could play. Though we would have wished to place higher, we still played well enough as a team to see SJA in the newspaper for fourth place.”

Heine said that the rain-shortened second day presented challenges, as did her struggles with the putter. But she stayed in the moment and didn’t give up. “Golf is not just an individual sport, but in this case, it is a team sport, as well,” she said. “I wanted to make sure to not let Scarlett and Berkley down. State did not turn out the way I wanted it to being my senior year, but I believe we all fought hard. I had an amazing time with my team, and it was a great experience. This year, we also got a new coach, Coach Michael. He was there for me every step of the way, and I could not thank him enough.”

Reitzell said that while she didn't play as well as she had hoped to, she enjoyed the experience of competing in the state tournament. “During the match, it was extremely important to remember your game, to play safe, keep a positive attitude and stick with what you know,” she said. “Through the two days, I would say my biggest success was being friendly with my competitors and making new friends to have on and off the golf course. State was a great experience, and it reminds me why I play the sport I chose and why I enjoy it so much. Next year, we will be ready to win.”