This year, Freedom High School’s golf team consists of 12 golfers. In this group, there are 6 returning members and 6 new members. The team is led by Coach Aaron Fitzpatrick and their two captains, Senior Patrick Baker and Junior Stuart Skogsholm. The team has taken the course, and they’ve been showing their skills throughout the season.

“Even though we are one of the younger teams in the section, we’re fighting for a playoff spot just as a hard as anyone else, “ Baker said. Some of the other players have expressed that this season is going well, but there’s still room for improvement.

Although they’re not completely satisfied with their scores, they’ve had some convincing wins this season. Their biggest win this season took place on Sept. 9 against Lincoln Park at home, winning by 75 strokes. The final score of the match was 217-292.

“In the section we are 3-4, but we can be doing a lot better,” Junior Anthony Thompson said. “We have the talent to go far this season.”

Though the team feels that it was tough at the start of the season, they have a very positive outlook and high hopes for the future.

“The beginning of the season was a little rough, but we are getting better,” Senior Jericho Barkley said.

On another note, there are three freshman golfers that have joined the team this year. They’ve been learning new skills, and are improving their game during practices. Having underclassmen on the team will help set a base for FHS’s future golf team.

“From being on the golf team I’ve learned patience,” Freshman Jessica Palakovich said. “Being patient helps you clear your mind and mentally prepare for your next shot.”

According to the players, the whole team is very supportive of one another. They’re always encouraging each other and helping their fellow teammates out. Members of the team express that being supportive and helping one another is one of the team’s biggest strengths.

“If someone is having a bad then there is always someone that picks them back up” Thompson said. Palakovich, Barkley, Baker and other players on the team also feel that the great support system within the team is their biggest strength this season.

“I pretty much love everything,” Baker said. “From the bus rides there, to meeting new people on opposing teams and especially winning.”

Last year’s golf team made it to the playoffs for the first time in 10 years at FHS. This year’s team has faith that they can make it there again. “If we get some things going our way I think we can retain our playoff spot from last year,” Baker said.