Boys golf: Warriors overcome slow start to earn return trip to state

Unfazed by a slow start at sectionals, a resilient Waunakee boys’ golf team has qualified for state again.

“I am so proud of my team,” said Betsy Zadra, head coach for the Warriors. “They truly are Warriors in every sense of the word. It wasn’t the best start to the WIAA Sectional round at Blackhawk CC, but it’s not how you start, it’s how you finish! And boy did they finish!”

Showing grit and a never-say-die attitude, Waunakee kept grinding away.

“Each one of them knew they weren’t playing well, but they didn’t flinch,” said Zadra. “They made the turn and battled, grinded and fought on the back nine until the last putt dropped on the 18th hole. At that point, the season-long goal of advancing to state was achieved. With former players, former coaches, family, friends and the Waunakee coaching staff supporting them throughout the round, the Warriors shot 313 and finished in second place at the Blackhawk Sectional and are heading back to state.”

Led by KC Nickel and Peyton Albers, who both carded a 76 and tied for sixth place, the Warriors also got a 79 from Brady Piazza, who tied for 11th, and an 82 from Drew Berres. Meanwhile, AJ Ziegler finished with an 86.

“The Warriors shot 162 on the front nine and finished with a 151 on the back nine, earning them the nickname ‘The Back Nine Boys,’” said Zadra.

Middleton beat out Waunakee to earn sectional championship honors.

The WIAA Division 1 state meet will be held Monday and Tuesday in Kohler at Blackwolf Run - Meadows Course.