ROGERS — The Rogers Heritage Lady War Eagles golf team has been riddled with injuries the past couple weeks, but should be at full strength for the Class 7A girls’ state golf tournament.
The two-day tournament begins today at Centennial Country Club in Conway.
Heritage has struggled this season, but comes into the tournament with momentum after managing a tie with Van Buren last week. In addition, the Lady War Eagles played that match without senior Sara Reidy, one of its top players.
Reidy has been sidelined for two weeks with an ankle injury, but has been cleared to play with a cart at the state tournament, Heritage coach Jay Miles said.
Miles said the Arkansas Activities Association has cleared Reidy to use a cart with the doctor’s excuse.
“She’s been on crutches for two weeks and she’ll obviously be super rusty, but that’s exciting news for her as a senior,” Miles said. “She’s been to the state tournament every year and I think it’s the right thing to do.
“She gives us that outside chance of making the second day. But we’ll have to see after she plays 18 holes. We’ll have an alternate just in case.”
Senior Destiney Phillips has also been out for a couple of weeks with a shoulder injury, but she returned to action this week.
Phillips said the team has shown steady improvement and she’s excited about the state tournament.
“We’re trying to make it to the second day,” Phillips said. “It would mean a lot to the team if we did.”
All teams will play 18 holes today. The field will then be cut in half for Tuesday’s second round.
Miles said the Lady War Eagles have made use of the First Tee facilities in Lowell and it’s been a tremendous help.
“All but one of our players are members,” Miles said. “It’s really made a difference for our girls team.”
Junior Gina Britton and senior Katie Christian have also been steady players for the Lady War Eagles. Junior Erin Lundy will be Heritage’s fifth player.
“It’s really come down to one or two bad holes or a lack of concentration one shot per hole,” Miles said.
Class 7A Girls Golf State Championship
When: Today-Tuesday
Where: Conway Country Club
Schedule: All Class 7A teams compete in today’s 18-hole first round. Top seven teams and top eight individuals advance to Tuesday’s final 18-hole round.
Defending Champion: Fayetteville