Ross is the district runner-up, moves on to state tournament

Faith Academy of Marble Falls senior golfer Libby Ross is returning to the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools state tournament after finishing as the runner-up at the district tournament April 25.

Ross shot an 89, one stroke behind the district champion. It’s the third time in four years Ross is headed to state. The only year she didn’t go was 2020 when the event was cancelled because of the Covid-19 pandemic. In 2019, she was fifth overall at the state tournament and was third in 2021. The Class 2A state tournament is May 2-3 at Cottonwood Creek Golf Course, 5200 Bagby Ave. in Waco.

“That’s the best I’ve ever shot in a competitive tournament,” she said of her 89. “I’m proud of myself. Golf is a very hard sport. I’m very happy.”

“She was super prepared,” athletics director Zakk Revelle said. “She’s been a force since she was a freshman. She’s been on the podium in Class 1A and 2A. She’s been in the top 10 every year. I’m really excited for her.”

Ross prepared for the district tournament, which was at Riverside Golf Course in Victoria, by participating in a practice round a day earlier. Golfers get little advice and coaching during a tournament. That’s when Ross’ mental toughness comes into play.

“Having high spirits is definitely the biggest one,” she said. “If you make a bad shot, you can’t sulk for too long. You have to have high spirits and encourage yourself. When I make a bad shot, I think ‘oh well. I’ll get it next time.’ You have to remember it’s just a game.”

She agreed that golf will test an athlete’s determination and their ability to compete, and that’s even more apparent as golfers can’t talk to their coaches a whole lot.

“In a competitive tournament, you don’t get coaching,” she said. “Ninety percent is mental. You have to be confident in yourself and believe you can do it. When you don’t have cheerleaders encouraging you, you have to be your own cheerleader, you have to keep your spirits high and have a good attitude the whole time.”

Watch videos on Highland Lakes sports by going to Fierro’s YouTube channel and searching for The Broad Podcaster. Please like, subscribe and share.