The Wakefield men’s golf team is relishing their recent victories after triumphing over Heritage, Wake Forest and Rolesville, with aspirations for a conference championship sparking motivation among members of the team. These hopes are not unfounded, however, as players are actively preparing for future matches by sharpening their physical precision and keen focus, ensuring the right conditions are present to ensure success.

Coach Jim Doyle’s efforts are also crucial when it comes to the team’s performance. During his nearly two-decade-long tenure as Wakefield’s men’s golf coach, he has worked hard to support his team and push his players to strive for victory. A recent example of his players’ exemplary performance is Isaiah Adel, who shot a five-under-par 67 to win medalist honors at the 18th NC High School Invitational at Treyburn Country Club in Durham. Doyle explains that the group’s achievements aren’t directly because of him, but because of the team’s talent.

“I try to push them with competitive play in practice. Anything I can do to help with confidence, I do as well. I offer moral support too when needed,” Doyle said. “I really don’t have to say anything motivating; I am mainly reminding them of the rules for the match.”

The team collectively agrees that mental health is a big part of their success. Many of the golfers believe that the key to a great match is a clear mind and deep breathing. This is especially important given the solitary nature of being the only one in control of the ball, making every swing a make-or-break movement. Keegan Knouse, a freshman new to the Wakefield team, knows how important being calm and collected is when it comes to performing well in important matches. 

“To calm my nerves, I usually take a few deep breaths and think of something I really enjoy doing,” Knouse said. “For me personally, it would definitely be fishing. So I’d just think about that, get myself sorted out and then hit my shot. It really helps me focus.”

After weeks of continuous practice and preparation for an upcoming match, the payoff of a win is beyond gratifying for the team. Nadal Dahir, a sophomore player, elaborates on both the team’s victory traditions and his own personal feelings surrounding a well-deserved triumph.

“It feels good personally to perform well, but the music and hype on the way back is great,” Dahir said. “We always get dinner at Carolina Ale House after our rounds too.”

Even though golf is often thought of as a solitary sport, competitive play often utilizes a combination of individual players’ scores in order to compare performance between different teams. As such, corralling support and morale in other players remains a ritual for everyone on the Wakefield golf teams. Gavin Hazen, a freshman player on the team, comments on how he focuses on his individual game while still supporting his fellow teammates.

“I prefer to focus on my own game while I’m playing because then I get ahead. I can think ‘I just have to make this putt to get ahead,’ and keep pushing our team forward,” Hazen said. “We practice together, we putt together and we go to the driving range together. We’re all really calming each other down and getting ready for the match.”