HARLINGEN — If early indications are to be considered then the Harlingen High boys golf team is ready to take the program to the next level and qualify to the UIL Class 6A state tournament.
Despite an abundance of youth on the roster, the Cardinals have managed to string together some impressive performances thus far this season.
This season, Harlingen won three tournaments to start the season including the McAllen tournament, the Donna tournament and a tourney at Weslaco.
Meanwhile, the team finished third at the Border Olympics in Laredo, second at the regional preview earlier this year and it also won the District 32-6A tournament for the second straight year.
All in all the team didn’t finish lower than third place in any tournament this year.
“We’re a young, yet experienced team,” said Harlingen head coach Chris Milligan. “We’ve played relatively well and consistent most of the year. These guys love the game and have the opportunity to get better. I feel like our upperclassmen are very focused and our underclassmen have used the play this year to really get comfortable and belong.”
At regionals last year, the team shot a 655 and finished 11th place.
“Last year left a very sour taste in our mouth to be honest. We really didn’t play anywhere near our potential and we made a lot of mistakes. I think that has really settled deep with our returners and we’ll play more disciplined with our game plan this year. We have some experience to draw from and use.
“I’m not surprised by this team’s success,” Milligan continued. “They are the real deal. Every single one of these guys can play. They have the desire and work ethic and they love to compete. We just have to be in control of our emotions and commit to our plan. It’s probably not how other teams will play the course, but we believe it gives us the best chance to advance to state.”
One player who is ready to lead the Cardinals at regionals, which begin today in San Antonio, is senior Dylan Martinez.
“Dylan is a class act and a coach’s dream,” said Milligan. “He leads by example with his work ethic and discipline every day. As a player, it’s easy to get amped up for the big moments and work hard, but Dylan is consistent at all times. The young guys really look up to him and the returners really respect him.
“As good as he is, he’s always about the team, making everyone around him better. I’ve been able to coach him from middle school on up and I can’t express how much he’ll be missed next season.”
The boys tee off today at 7:45 a.m. at Republic Golf Course.
Joining the boys in the Alamo City is Micaela Leandro, who won the girls individual title at the 32-6A meet earlier this month. This is the second year in a row she’s qualified for regionals. The girls tournament begins Wednesday.
The top three teams and top three individuals not on a top three team advance to state competition, which is set for May 14-15 (boys ) and May 21-22 (girls) at Legacy Hills Golf Course in Georgetown.
