The NAIT Ooks golf team is gearing up for an exciting 2024 season, with high expectations after a strong showing last year. Led by Head Coach Tyler Leicht, the team is looking to build on last season as they compete in the first regional tournament at Coal Creek Golf Resort on September 8-9, which NAIT will host. The team will then set its sights on the ACAC Championships, held at Alberta Springs Golf Course from September 22-24, with hopes of securing a spot at the CCAA Nationals in King, Ontario, hosted by Humber College from October 14-18.
Coach Leicht is optimistic about the upcoming season and has ambitious goals for the team. "Our main goals for the golf team this year are to continue to grow and improve," Leicht shared. "With the majority of our men's team roster returning, we're looking to improve off our 3rd place finish and punch our ticket back to Nationals. We set the bar high last season by qualifying for Nationals in our first season back after a decade-long absence, and our goal is to compete at the national level every season."
The Ooks' men's team is largely composed of returning players, many of whom have put in the work over the summer to prepare for the fall season. Leicht is particularly excited about the experience and depth of the roster, noting, "Our men's team has been working hard to prepare for the season, and as the temperature drops, we hope our scores do as well."
On the women's side, it's a fresh start with an entirely new roster. Many of the players are dual-sport varsity athletes at NAIT, bringing with them a wealth of experience from competing in the ACAC in other sports. "We have multiple dual-sport NAIT varsity student-athletes who are familiar with the ACAC landscape and are now taking that experience to the course," said Leicht.
When it comes to leadership on the team, returning player Mason Gorski is expected to be a standout once again. "Much like last season, our men's team will be led by Mason Gorski," Leicht said. "Mason not only puts up great red numbers at each event, but he also encourages and supports the other members on the men's and women's teams. Our team is very fortunate to have Mason, and we can't wait to see him back on the tee this season."
The women's team also welcomes a familiar face from NAIT Athletics. While new to the golf team, Anna Atcheynum, a member of the NAIT Women's Volleyball team, is expected to bring her leadership skills to the course. "Anna is a fantastic volleyball player, and we can't wait for her to show the ACAC what she can do on the course!" said Leicht.
Among the new golfers joining the Ooks this season, Ella Dolan is expected to be a key player on the women's side. "Ella has had a great junior golf career and is looking to transition that success to the ACAC level," Leicht shared. On the men's side, Chris Rooker, a transfer from King's University who plays both volleyball and golf for NAIT, is another exciting addition. "Chris is dangerous off the tee, and we are excited to have him with the Ooks this season!"
As the team prepares for the season, Coach Leicht emphasizes the importance of balancing individual and team goals. "Individual scores matter, yes, but it is the team that wins championships and qualifies for Nationals," Leicht explained. "We work to instill in our team that you are not defined by your score. What matters is knowing that we compete for each other, and when one of us has a rough day, we have a teammate to pick us up on the course and the leaderboard."
One of the biggest challenges the Ooks anticipate this season is managing expectations. "Our biggest challenge will be to manage our expectations," said Leicht. "Our team has goals this season and wants to build off the success of last year, but we ultimately have to go out and achieve those goals event by event, shot by shot."
With a strong mix of returning players and exciting new talent, the NAIT Ooks golf team is poised for another successful season as they aim to compete at both the provincial and national levels.