The outlook is rosy for the boys golf team at Lakewood High School this year. With four returning seniors, three of whom have reached the state tournament, Coach Chris Knights team is loaded with talent.
The top returner, Adam Brisben, knocked on the door of a state title last season, finishing eighth. Hes lining up potential suitors for next year as well, including Western Washington and Washington State University.
He will be expected to lead the team along with twin towers Kellan and Sean Noteboom. The towering duo are both long off the tee, but Kellan concedes his brother out-hits even him.
Sean is the strongest of us all. He always hits solid irons, Kellan said.
Both Noteboom twins were all-league selections last season, to go along with impressive results all throughout their respective high school careers. The fourth senior, Ryan Boyce, also earned all-league mention as a junior, winding up on the second team.
With such an experienced, talented collection of players, expectations are naturally high surrounding the team. Theyve competed in the state tournament each of the past two years and this will be their last shot at a team title. Four friends, four years together, and one more chance at glory.
I expect to win the league again this year. We have a difficult district now with the realignment of some schools, it will be more difficult to make it to state, said coach Knight.
Schools such as Sehome, Bellingham, Linden and Anacortes which used to be 3A, have dropped down to the 2A classification.
His modesty fools nobody, as each golfer in the program understands that the talent is in place to make a run at a state title.
However, the guys on the team dont sound concerned either.
We dont feel pressure. We feel confident but not overconfident. Of course wed like to win state, but were just enjoying the ride, said Adam Brisben.
Teammate Ryan Boyce expressed similar sentiments. Im working on my ball striking and my iron accuracy. Were all focused on our individual games. The team title will be a product of that.
Mostly what has been holding us back is the weather. Weve had several practices cancelled due to the rain and snow, Knight added.
That could spell trouble for Boyce and the Noteboom twins, as all three are coming directly from basketball season and havent spent much time on the course. But if the players score the way both coach and golfers believe they will, this should be a special year for the Lakewood group.
The teams next match is March 29 versus Sultan.