By Rick Palsgrove
South Editor
Anna Machamer of the Canal Winchester Middle School golf team is shown here teeing off on what was the first ever tee shot for a member of the school’s girls golf team.
The golf team is growing at Canal Winchester Middle School.
“We have 16 kids – 11 boys and 5 girls – this year,” said Canal Winchester Middle School head golf coach Victor Paini. “I’m glad we have so many golfers this year. We have enough girl golfers now that we can start our first ever middle school girls golf team.”
When asked why it is important to get young golfers started in the sport at the middle school level, Paini said, “The sooner the better. Golf is a lifelong activity that they can master. You can start playing golf at an early age and play the sport forever.”
Paini said golf teaches the kids discipline, etiquette, and how to face adversity.
“The game combines mental and physical aspects,” said Paini.
Both the boys and girls teams have started play this season with the boys losing to Bloom-Carroll and the girls finishing second in a three way golf match with two Olentangy middle school teams. Paini said the boy and girls teams will play a dozen or so matches this season.
Paini said one of the team’s top golfers is Anna Machamer.
“She is disciplined, has a smooth swing, putts and chips well, and can manage a course,” said Paini. “She has confidence when she walks on the golf course.”
Two other strong players are Carter Armintrout and Easton Schlyer.
“Carter hits it far and straight off the tee and Easton is also strong off the tee and he also has a good short game,” said Paini.
Paini said the school’s golf program is growing.
“Interest in the program is high,” said Paini. “The community is growing and there’s been a pent up demand for new activities and athletic opportunities. This golf program is one of those opportunities.”
For information call the middle school at (614) 833-2151 or visit cwschools.org.
