By Susan Jenior

Staff Writer

GIRLS GOLF

The Division I girls at Old Avalon Golf Club in Warren proved to be the perfect starting point for Portage County teams starting on their journey toward the state tournament.

Aurora won the event with a final 336 score and Kent Roosevelt grabbed the fourth and final qualifying spot, firing a team total of 347.

Both advance to the Division I district tournament at Brookledge Golf Club in Cuyahoga Falls on Oct. 8.

AURORA

Gracyn Vidovic, a senior for the Greenmen, advanced to the state tournament in 2023.

Now, the Aurora team will be seeking to advance together.

“I am very proud of the team and how they played today despite the tough conditions, said Collin McEndree, coach of the girls from Aurora.

“Especially Meena Kraus, who had a season-best 87 today,” continued the coach. “We are looking to really build upon today’s round and head to Brookledge next week.”

Earning the first-qualifying spot, Aurora’s Vidovic fired a 4-over-par 75 and earned runner-up medalist honors.

Vidovic’s score set the standard, with Manisha Girn adding an 81, Kraus her 87 and Courtney Zeid a 93.

KENT ROOSEVELT

Roosevelt has enjoyed much success at the state level in previous years and are always looking to continue its tradition of excellence.

“After a rough final league match last week, I challenged the team by telling them what was expected of each, scoring wise, when we play 18-hole tournaments,” said Bryan Harvey, coach of the Riders.

“They lived up to that and some even exceeded expectations today.”

Ashlyn Leavery led the team by shooting a personal best 77.

“This was a top-four score in tough conditions. Her short game and tee shots were outstanding today,” continued the coach.

Adrianna Mineo played a stretch of seven holes at 3over-par, which helped her remain in the mid-80s.

“She is very close to putting it all together and scoring in the low 80s.

“Ella Houk is shooting right around 90 at this time. This is what we need her to do for the team to be successful. If she can avoid the big number, she could score in the mid-80s.”

Cassidy Singer is also playing well enough to score in the low 80s

“Overall, I was proud of the girls. We were right there with a few of the best teams in Northeast Ohio,” Harvey said. “Districts was our goal at the beginning of the season. Now we can play relaxed and see what happens.”