Northwood students at the driving range. Photo: Lea Lambert ’24.
Golf, a beloved co-curricular at Northwood, has seen an unprecedented surge in participation this year, surpassing all previous records. A staggering forty-two students have enrolled, a number equivalent to the combined strength of both Northwood Soccer teams. This overwhelming response has presented a unique challenge of transportation, requiring two buses for the driving range, a situation we have not encountered before.
The Northwood golfer’s expertise level varies. There are the people who play every day in the summer and compete in some friendly competitions and others who want to enjoy being outside and learn the fundamentals of golf.
The golf season typically commences in mid-April, right after the students return from their spring break. However, the weather often plays a decisive role in determining whether the golfers can practice or not. This time of the year, the weather is not always cooperative, posing a challenge. Until the golf course opens, students utilize the driving range for practice.
Meet Jacob Brunton, a student from the class of ’24, who is a passionate golfer. For him, the opportunity to practice golf at school is a true privilege. During the summer, he indulges in the sport with his friends almost every day. At Northwood, he primarily plays for enjoyment but also strives to enhance his technique to give his friends tough competition back home.
Charles Leduc ’25, on the other hand, is one of the few players for whom this whole thing is new. Charles wanted to try something different than usual. He was always intrigued by the sport but never had the chance to play it regularly. After going to the driving range several times, he is glad he chose this co-curricular and is excited to learn some technical skills.
Cole Van Etten ‘25 plays golf every week in the summer. Since he is a local from Lake Placid, the golf co-curricular gives him a chance to start his season earlier and get more practice. He enjoys golf because it’s a nice way to spend time outside with his friends, relax, and enjoy the weather. He mentioned springtime here goes by so fast, so he wants to appreciate every moment with his friends on the golf course.
The opening of the golf course is Friday, April 26th. Northwood golfers are excited to spend every afternoon of the week playing golf. Having the chance to have a golf course where students can just walk to it is such a good opportunity for everyone to just go and have fun.
