by Malcolm Butler
Cedar Creek sophomore Alex Roebuck ended the school year on Cloud 9.
After capturing the Division IV individual state championship in early May, Roebuck entered the summer with plenty of confidence.
This week, Roebuck’s confidence will face a cool challenge when he competes at the 2025 High School Golf National Invitational at Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina. He earned the invitation thanks to his state title.
“I am very grateful God helped me win the state championship to give me this opportunity,” said Roebuck. “I truly believe I am hitting it the best I ever have and that this tournament will depend more on the mental side such as course management and commitment. I hope I can be powered by my faith in God and can represent 318.”
The event runs July 20th through the 22nd and will consist of 54 holes that showcase 312 of the best high school golfers in the country.
Sponsored by the Professional Golf Association (PGA), the NHSGA is an invite-only tournament that will include both a team and individual competition. Competitive rounds will take place on Pinehurst #5, #6 and #8.
According to the event’s website, “receiving an invitation … is quite an honor since only the best high school teams and individuals receive invites based on state championship performances.”
Roebuck became just the fourth Cougar to ever capture the individual state title, joining Jerry Johnston, Patrick Blunt and Brandon Newton (4Xs). The sophomore shot a 27-hole total of 109 to edge Grand Lake’s Luke Wainwright (111) and defending state champion Logan Heltz (114) of Christ Episcopal.
Competitors this week will have an opportunity for a practice round on Saturday before the real competition begins Sunday. Pairings and course rotations for Round 1 will be released Thursday, while Rounds 2 and 3 will be determined based on team scores from the previous rounds.
