News Post

The St. Joseph’s Academy golf team won the Region I Division I tournament and qualified for the LHSAA Division I state golf tournament. The regional competition was held April 29 at Beaver Creek Golf Course.

Freshman Scarlett Kirsch carded a 76 to lead the way for the Redstickers. Senior Ava Heine and sophomore Berkley Reitzell both shot an 82 to finish in the top five individually. The tournament featured 58 players. 

“I had a great time playing my first regionals tournament with SJA,” Kirsch said. “I was in the first group off, and though my front nine was better than the back, I still tried my best to keep a positive attitude. It was amazing to win with Berkley and Ava. I’m so grateful, and I can’t wait to compete with them for a state title.”

Heine said capturing the regional tournament was especially meaningful, as this is her final year to compete for SJA. “I am very excited to get to play in state for my very last time with Berkley and Scarlett,” she said. “They are great golfers but even better friends. I had a great front nine shooting two over but fell apart a bit on the back. I tried to keep my composure and told myself to stay calm. My work paid off in the end, and I cannot wait to play in my last-ever high school golf event. I’m grateful for such a successful year and will miss my team dearly.”

While she didn’t shoot the score she hoped to, Reitzell said that qualifying for the upcoming state tournament is a wonderful opportunity for her and her teammates, who have become close friends. “I tried my best, and with the encouragement of my coach, I kept a positive attitude,” she said. “On the front nine, I shot a three-over 39, and on the back, I shot seven over with a 43. Regardless of my score, I am still very happy that as a team, we get to move forward and are presented with a shot at winning state.”

The state tournament is slated for May 5 and 6 at Les Vieux Chenes in Lafayette.