Mavericks clinch co-league, district titles in playoff finish

MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake Mavericks boys golf team secured a Co-league and district championship at Apple Tree Golf Course in a playoff on their way to qualifying for state.  

“It was nip and tuck all the way,” said Head Coach Terry Melbye. “We were in second for a little while, and then first place for up until the very last match there, and we ended up taking second to West Valley... so that was really exciting.” 

Mason Bradford, Drayson Nighswonger, Jonah Heaps, Christian Mathis, Grady Walker and Brycen Stickel placed in the top 20 for the Mavericks. Leading the way was Bradford finishing in first place, shooting a 135 and eight under par on the second day of competition according to Melbye.   

“Eight under par is just a crazy number,” said the coach. “He was our team leader both days on that and has been all year, as far as that goes. I can't say enough about him.” 

Melbye said Bradford has shown a lot of growth this season, consistently shooting under par.  

“I think less than 1% of the population ever shoots under par in their entire lives, and he does it consistently,” he said. 

Nighswonger placed third individually, shooting a 148 when it was all said and done. Melbye was complimentary of his performance, saying that he challenged Bradford at times for the top spot throughout this season.  

Rounding out the top 10 were Mathis (158) and Heaps (162). Not far behind was Walker (165) and Stickel (174) to top off a successful weekend of golf.  

According to Melbye, Mathis has also grown a lot this season and is improving at the right time.  

“He's really peaking right now, which is nice. He's starting to shoot in the 70s. We've really been counting on him a lot,” coach said.  

Benefitting the Mavericks this season is the experienced roster that carried over from last year, Melbye said. He noted that each player is capable of stepping up and helping out the team when needed.  

“They kind of work together on things, and we need it, because if one kid doesn't have a good round or whatever, it seems like someone else comes in there and takes over,” Melbye said. 

“We’re really fortunate, we had a real young team last year, and last year we won League and district also. I had high expectations for them (this season), and they came through with it,” he said.  

With their championship finish, they now advance to the 4A state golf championships, which are held at Eagles Pride Golf Course from May 19-20. They will be one of 16 teams competing on day one; from there, the competition is cut in half for day two where a champion will be crowned.  

“Knock on wood here, that we've got kids that will place individually as well as on the team. I'm excited, it's been a really good year for us. No question about it. That's a great group of kids,” said Melbye.  

Success aside, Melbye expressed a lot of pride in his players.  

“It’s been a joy (coaching them), and they represent Moses Lake really well. There's no question about it. They represent the school and the town and can't help but be proud of them,” he said.  

RESULTS: 

1: Mason Bradford – 135 

3: Drayson Nighswonger – 148 

5: Christian Mathis – 158 

10: Jonah Heaps – 162 

12: Grady Walker – 165 

20: Brycen Stickel – 174 

    The Mavs’ Grady Walker, gray polo, takes a practice swing before putting the ball.
  

    Christian Mathis, white shoes, puts the ball into the hole during a home golf match earlier this season.