Lady Jacket golfers honored Team leaders

Chester High School Lady Jacket golfers were honored at a recognition event Thursday, Jan. 20, in the Chester High School Library.

Although the golf season concluded in October, COVID concerns and other logistical issues forced the end-of-the-season awards night to be delayed.

Five golfers made up the 2021 Lady Jacket team: junior Aubrie Medford; sophomores Camryn Luthy, Rylie McDonough, and Jazzi Merideth; and freshman Rylie Conley.

The girls worked hard and improved throughout the season in spite of being a very young squad with limited experience. Luthy and Medford led the team and were the No. 1 and No. 2 golfers throughout the season.

In Chester's first year in the Cahokia Conference and Meg Schnoeker's first year as coach, the YellowJackets were runners up in the conference and Luthy earned the title of Cahokia Conference Champion.

Luthy and Medford represented Chester at the Belleville Althoff Regional at Stonewolf in September. Both Jackets finished in the top 10 - Medford with 95 and Luthy with 100 - to advance to sectionals, where their season ended.

"I don't know what I expected my first year of coaching to be like, but if it was anything, it was fun," Schnoeker said. "I'll be the first to admit, I was a little nervous to meet my team and begin my coaching journey, but after I got to know these girls, everything fell into place and we had a great season."

Schnoeker shared her favorite memories and happenings with the girls and their parents.

"To have one player win the conference tournament and two players advance to sectionals my first year of coaching exceeded my expectations," said Schnoeker.

"I am grateful to have coached such a goofy, outgoing, talented group of ladies, and am very excited to see what our next season brings."

Schnoeker praised Conley for always being positive and for not putting too much pressure on herself. She said Merideth always had a positive attitude and a jovial demeanor.

McDonough was noted for always having a smile on her face and celebrating small victories.

Luthy worked hard and earned the title of Cahokia Conference Champion, qualified for sectionals and earned medalist honors at a majority of her matches.

Medford was a team leader throughout the season and was always focused and driven. She likewise qualified for sectionals and was Chester's No. 1 golfer in two matches.

"These girls are awesome. Most appreciate the small victories and most really love golf. I can't wait until next season and hope that everyone returns for another successful year of golf," Schnoeker said.

Schnoeker gave out three awards - Lowest Average, Most Improved, and Birdie Award.

The Lowest Average Award was earned by Luthy, who had a season average of 46.6 strokes per match.

Most Improved went to Aubrie Medford, who stepped up this year and competed at a higher level and was successful in many aspects of her game.

The Birdie Award was earned by Luthy who had nine birdies for the season.