As they say: Out with the old. In with the New.

Broken Bow boys golf, after graduating a talented 2022 class, is rebuilding on the backs of ambitious returners.

“We have a competitive mindset this year,” Broken Bow head coach Mollie Wallis says. “The younger guys know they have to step up. They had a summer full of golf. They were always at the course or entering a summer tournament. They are putting in a lot of work this spring.”

Senior Eli Pruett has been at the head of those efforts.

“He (Pruett) really got the golf bug this past spring when he set another new personal best 18. He is always encouraging his teammates during practice,” Wallis says. “(He) gets them together on the weekends and organizes their own practice. He is the one who stays till dark working on his game. His work ethic is starting to carry into other players. He is a true leader.”

Kaden Hough, a junior, is a “fantastic leader,” a “great student in the classroom,” and a “jaw-dropping percussionist” in Broken Bow’s band.

“He even has a job he is able to balance after golf practice most evening. He is involved in so much and never misses a beat. At practice he is always self determined to be better than the day before,” Wallis says. “His game has grown since his sophomore year. His confidence seems to even be in a higher place. When he’s at practice, we seem to have a more productive day as well.”

Sophomore Brady Hough, who enters only his second year playing golf, will be a “dangerous” player for Wallis.

“You would think it would be his 10th (year). His understanding of the golf swing and short game is very impressive. He’s putting in the hard work,” Wallis says. “If he’s patient and stays with it, he’ll be dangerous. I’m looking forward to being able to watch his game grow and mature.”

Broken Bow varsity boys golf opens the season Tuesday, March 7th at Chickasaw Pointe (Kingston) at 9 a.m. Their journey to state will go through Paris, Texas; McAlester, Poteau and home at Cedar Creek. The state golf tournament is set for May 8th and 9th at Prairie West (Weatherford).