Carrico leads Aggies in school’s inaugural state championship golf appearance

by Malcolm Butler

Carson Carrico tied for 13th overall to lead the Choudrant Aggies in the Division IV state championships held Monday and Tuesday at Farm d’ Allie Golf Club in Carencro.

Carrico’s two-round total of 166 (83-83) put him in a three-way tie with Cedar Creek’s Cameron Temple and Sacred Heart’s Wesley LaFleur as the Aggies finished eighth as a team in the eight-team championship field.

Cedar Creek captured the team title.

“I would like to first congratulate Cedar Creek on an outstanding season and accomplishment of winning the LHSAA division IV state title,” said Choudrant head coach William Bandy. “Their players and coaches are great guys and have worked hard to achieve this goal.”

Jackson Ambrose (34th, 87+95=182), Cooper Johnson (45th, 104+100=204), Sawyer Cunningham (46th, 104+113=217), and Kahless Carnahan (48th, 117+109=226) rounded out the Aggies competitors.

“I truly believe the lack of competitive experience got to us at state despite helping us at district and regionals,” said Bandy. “Our lack of competitive experience kind of helped us in district and regionals because we seemed to really play for each other with a care free spirit.

“On the biggest stage, we collectively let one bad shot turn into two or three added strokes on too many holes. We pressed a little too much and a challenging golf course covered in water will make you pay for little mistakes.”

Choudrant advanced to the state tournament in only its second year with a varsity boys program.

“I am so very proud of the Choudrant Aggies golf team,” said Bandy. “Each player contributed greatly to our success this season. Another great addition to our team this year was assistant coach Landon Wade. His knowledge and presence gave us a much needed lift to get to the next level.

“It’s nice to know that our 5 seniors were able to end their golf careers at Choudrant in the state championship tournament. Finishing the season as the second place public school in LHSAA Division IV is worth celebrating. We want to thank our administrators, faculty, student body, and community for their support.”