CARSON CITY, Nev. (KOLO) – After a long season, the Sierra Lutheran Falcons stand on top of the state at the 2A level. However, the journey itself wasn’t easy.
Conditions were rough at Jackpot Golf Club for the state tournament, including snow on the opening day and heavy wind throughout. However, the Falcons persevered. After finishing the first round tied for the team lead, they put together an impressive final round to win the state championship by 25 strokes (410-408-818).
Sidney Smith was also exceptional, winning the overall 2A individual state championship. After an opening round 84, she battled on day two through the conditions to card an 86, earning first overall at the state tournament by four strokes (84-86-170).
“I love playing with all of them. They’re all so sweet and kind. I think from the first tournament to the last, we all grew and it was amazing,” said Smith. “We all worked together and it was just amazing winning as a whole team because it really felt like we were all just one.”
Rossi Erven also played a big part on the 13-girl team this season, culminating her year with a 12th place finish at the state tournament.
“It’s a big honor for me to represent Sierra Lutheran because this has been such a core part of my life for the past couple years. With the conditions that we were in, we just all fought for another,” said Erven. “The whole time I was thinking that I should have faith, not just for myself, but for my other teammates too that they’ll pull through for the team.”
Head coach Charlie Berger has watched these girls grow and progress throughout the season and witnessed how they were exceptionally tested by the conditions of the state tournament in Jackpot. Overall, he says he feels an immense sense of pride for this team and all the work they put in all year long to achieve the ultimate goal.
“I just wanted to congratulate these girls. I’m really proud of them. They worked really hard for this one last year after winning regionals. They were able to come back and win regionals, then finish it off by winning state.” said Berger. “It’s something special. We preach that golf is a mental game and they had such a positive attitude, not only the whole season, but especially in this tournament. When they found out they won, it was just so special.”
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