The Sage Informer

IHSA Golf State saw two familiar faces from Monticello this past Friday and Saturday, (October 18-19)  in Andrew Neef and Maddux Quick. The two seniors qualified for state as individuals on October 7 with a 71 from Quick, and a 74 from Neef at UofI Golf Course (Orange), with Quick getting second and Neef earning seventh. Both seniors have played at state before since they qualified for team state in 2021, 2022, and Quick qualified as an individual in 2023. 

When asked about some of the seniors’ emotions on the first tee box, they both shared similar responses. Quick said, “I would say I felt a mix of nerves, excitement, and gratitude. To tee it up one last time [in high school] was truly something I will never forget.” Neef had a similar response to the emotions, saying, “When you first get to the state tournament, the feeling is completely different. Not just the fact that it’s state, but also the fact that there are people there watching that usually aren’t. I was feeling excited and shaky at the same time.” 

Although they had been there as a team, qualifying for state as an individual is something that very few have done. Quick said, “It meant the world to me to qualify for my senior season, it was a goal I had set at the beginning of the season, and it’s also something no one in school history has ever done [qualifying all four years of highschool] so it just made it that much more special.” Neef was close his junior year, but didn’t quite make the cut. “After not qualifying my junior year, sectionals this year meant so much more than any other tournament…[after finding out I qualified] I couldn’t have been happier.” 

While both seniors enjoyed their success, their experience was much more impactful. “What I took away from State was how grateful I am for all of my family, friends, teammates, and coaches. Without them I wouldn’t be here.” said Quick. Neef added, “Being at state is just an awesome experience. Seeing all your friends from other schools you haven’t seen since summer and everyone else in the field is amazing.” 

Both seniors not only participated, but competed in the IHSA State tournament. In a field with many great players, they both found a way to fit in perfectly. Quick even qualified for day two, and finished in 27th with a showing of 77, and 78. 

Carter Foran, Staff Writer

forca25@sages.us