Megan Thiravong may have been disappointed by her performance during the IHSA Class 1A State Meet at Red Tail Run Golf Course this past weekend, but the Rochelle Township High School freshman has given the Hubs golf program plenty to be excited about moving forward.
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DECATUR — Megan Thiravong may have been disappointed by her performance during the IHSA Class 1A State Meet at Red Tail Run Golf Course this past weekend, but the Rochelle Township High School freshman has given the Hubs golf program plenty to be excited about moving forward.
After winning the IHSA Class 1A Regional and finishing second at the IHSA Class 1A Sectional to become the first RTHS girls to qualify for state in 24 years, Thiravong prepared for her biggest challenge of the 2017 season. The Lady Hub golfer shot 96 over her first 18 holes before rebounding with an 87 on the second day of competition to finish tied for 65th place with 180.
“The atmosphere at my first ever state meet was like any other tournament I've played but a little more intense as I know that I am competing against the best of the best in the state of Illinois,” Thiravong said. “My experience there was of great pride representing Rochelle as it's been 24 years since the last female player was there. It was also a learning experience and it will definitely prepare me for future tournaments.”
With Rochelle assistant coach David Cartwright by her side, Thiravong battled through the many obstacles on the course including gusty winds, narrow fairways lined with trees and lengthy holes. While she admitted the course was challenging, she also said her experience at the state tournament was great overall.
“I took this meet with a more serious attitude,” Thiravong said. “Unlike the sectional and regional meets where I was more relaxed and followed a safer game plan, I wanted to represent my hometown well and I lost my mental game during the process… Mr. Cartwright and I really enjoyed the experience and the challenge at state together. We both want to be back and represent again next season.”
Thiravong is one of several Rochelle players who could return to the team next season. With a top-3 conference finish, a regional championship, a runner-up sectional performance and a state meet already under her belt, Thiravong will be looking to continue her successful run in 2018.
“The positive take-away was that I met new friends and understood what it takes to compete at this level,” she said. “The players I competed against were very focused, competitive and relaxed.”
