Chapin, SC: Voting for High School Girls Golf Player of the Year Now Open
The time has come for the Midlands-area community to support its young female golfers as the voting for The State’s high school girls golf 2024 Player of the Year is underway. Community members can cast their votes until Tuesday, Nov. 19 at noon. The winner will be revealed later that day alongside the all-area golf team. This recognition celebrates the achievements of outstanding athletes from local high schools, and the community is encouraged to participate in this fun and engaging event.
Nominee Highlights
This year, nominees have displayed impressive skills and a deep commitment to the sport. Among the top contenders is Mia Andrade from Chapin. As a senior, Andrade boasts a scoring average of 77.3, receiving accolades as the medalist at the Class 5A Division II Lower State championship. She secured the ninth position at the 5A Division II state tournament and has been chosen for the prestigious North-South golf matches. After high school, Andrade will continue her golf career at Western Carolina.
Merritt Barbery, a junior from AC Flora, also shines this season. Barbery earned all-state honors following a fifth-place finish at the Class 4A championship and was sixth at the 4A Upper State championship, showcasing her consistent high levels of play.
Another key competitor is Lilly Reed Black from Chapin. This senior achieved a 77.4 scoring average and made history by becoming the medalist at the Class 5A Division II state tournament. Black, selected for the North-South golf matches, is set to further her education and golfing journey at William & Mary.
Season Performances
Caitlyn Gaines from River Bluff is another noteworthy nominee. The senior recorded a scoring average of 78.5, finishing fifth at the 5A Division I championship and claiming the runner-up spot at the Upper State championship. Gaines signed with Southern Wesleyan University and has also been selected for the North-South All-Star golf matches.
Caroline Hawkins, a junior from Blythewood, has made her mark by becoming the third girls’ golfer in state history to win three consecutive individual championships, taking home the Class 5A Division I crown. Hawkins impressed with a remarkable 70.4 scoring average and medaled in four out of five matches this season.
Lastly, Taryn Smoak, a junior from Lexington, recorded six top-10 finishes this season. With a scoring average of 38.9 for nine holes, she was also recognized as all-region and finished 13th at the Class 5A Division I championship.
Inclusion and Encouragement
The community’s participation in this voting process not only encourages these talented young women but also fosters a supportive environment for high school sports. The opportunity to vote helps showcase the remarkable achievements of these players, honoring their dedication and hard work over the season.
As the voting period progresses, fans, friends, and family members are reminded that the poll is not scientific; it is designed for fun and community engagement. The recognition of these players serves to inspire the next generation of golfers while celebrating the existing talent within the Midlands-area schools.
As this exciting event unfolds, everyone is eagerly awaiting to see which exceptional athlete will take home the coveted title of Player of the Year.
