Niwot Girls golf returns 3 state qualifiers

Veteran Niwot High School golf coach Ed Weaver is optimistic about his squad, with three returning state qualifiers. The only loss from last season's state qualifying team was graduating senior Sydney Rothstein. "Sydney came over to practice last week while she was on her spring break," Weaver said.

Weaver, a realtor with Slifer, Smith & Frampton - Front Range (formerly Colorado Landmark) when he is not coaching golf, appreciates the connections he forms with his players, which last long after their high school careers are over. Weaver has coached both the boys and girls golf teams at Niwot for many years.

Sophomore Alena Kazsenicky, who finished 11th at state last year, leads the way for the 2023 season. Kazenicky plans to participate in both golf and track this spring after a good experience in cross country last fall.

Senior Kate Jones and junior Mina O'Dell also return. Both qualified for state last year for the second time in their high school careers. Ayla Schatz, a sophomore, is also part of the varsity squad.

Weaver is also excited to have added senior Sophia McBee on the squad this year. "She's very coachable," Weaver said, explaining how she quickly learned how to hit the ball out of the bunker in practice last week.

The Cougars will host the Class 4A Region 3 tournament on May 23rd at Fox Hill Country Club this year. "The goal is to qualify the team for state," Weaver said.

Weaver is assisted by veteran assistant Chad Richert as well as newcomer Byron Rudisill, who teaches IB physics at Niwot High.