Golf: An unexpected cast propels Millbrook to early success (09-06-06)
Pioneers sit second in Northwestern standings -- By Tommy Keeler Jr. (Daily Staff Writer)
WINCHESTER — Members of the Millbrook golf team were surprised when Jeremy Hahn, last year's top player, chose not to play this season.
What looked like a promising year suddenly didn't seem quite as bright. But, one by one, the Pioneers have made it a season to remember.
"When we lost Jeremy Hahn, I thought it was going to be tough," senior Tucker Cain said. "It's been easier than I thought it would be. Whenever someone has an off-day, somebody else picks them up."
The Pioneers have had little trouble producing four solid scores at each meet; they sit second in the Northwestern District.
"We've had at least five score well consistently for us," senior Wes Licklider said. "We're all good friends and that's helped as well."
Licklider didn't start playing golf until his sophomore year. His father, Curly, a standout golfer at Warren County, died when Licklider was young.
Even though golf was his father's passion, Licklider didn't start playing until recently.
"My grandpa was real good, too; I guess it's in the blood," he said. "It took me a little while, but once I got bit by the golf bug, I was hooked."
Last month, Licklider almost pulled out of the tournament named for his father before settling for third after overcoming nerves and a slow start. Sparked by Licklider's play, the Pioneers have kept rolling. In the race for the regular-season district championship, Sherando holds just a one-stroke lead over Millbrook.
One mini-tournament remains — Saturday at Shenandoah Valley Golf Club. The Pioneers and Warriors will also meet today in a tri-match with Central.
"The match with Sherando is huge for us," sophomore Chris Northrup said. "If we can win that, we would have a chance to win the title."
Licklider, Cain, junior Trevor Oyler and Northrup have been solid, but sophomore Hunter Shrout and senior Ashley Plaugher are among those who have come through when they were needed.
Millbrook coach Nate Hill said the players' desire to improve helped them get to where they are today.
"They've worked hard and played a lot of golf," he said. "They've played in a lot of tournaments and that's what it takes to improve."
The fourth-year program has grown significantly in a short time. Last year, the Pioneers finished fourth in the regular season and fourth in the district tournament.
A key this year, Hill said, has been the team's attitude.
"They all love to play and they all get along so well," he said. "When it's practice time, they take it very seriously and they know what to do."
Their goal has been to reach Region II play by winning the regular-season title. The Pioneers still have a shot at attaining it.
"I think we have a good chance to win the district," Shrout said. "We just have to keep playing like we have been."
