Pee Dee Academy golfers capable of earning state title

Golden Eagle senior Scott MacGillivray attempts to sink a putt while sophmore James Fleming looks on during practice at Dusty Hills Country Club. The Pee Dee Academy golf team is in good playoff position with a 17-2-1 record.

By: Chris Lane Correspondent | SCNow
Published: April 15, 2009

Pee Dee Academy's Jerry Coleman has been a winner at the state level in basketball and tennis with his Golden Eagles. He also has a golf team that is capable of doing the same. For 14 straight seasons, the blue and gold have made the state playoffs. And with that, three state runner-up finishes in a very tough SCISA-AA.

"We have two divisions in our region," said Coleman of the conference set-up. "And, we are very capable of winning our region and making it back to state this year. SCISA takes the top four teams of each region to playoffs." Coleman said he expects to win the upcoming state tournament on April 26-28 at Quail Creek in Conway, adding that "... there are some teams that will be tough to beat."

Two seniors lead the Golden Eagles, followed by a junior, a sophomore and three seventh graders who are learning fast. Will Nanke is a senior in his fifth year on the varsity squad. "He has vast potential and just crushes the ball off of the tee," Coleman said. "He worked hard to start the year and is working hard." Senior Scott MacGillivray is in his second year on the varsity golf team, after participating in baseball. "He waited too long before coming out. He has played well, has learned the game and I am very proud of where he has come in a short time." Coleman added that "He strives to and wants to do well and you want that out of your leaders."

Junior Bradley George is in his third year of varsity golf, following in the successful footsteps of family before him. "He is coming around and playing well and we will need him come playoff time. I know he will get the job done," Coleman said.

James Fleming is the one sophomore on the team. He, too, is in his third year of varsity golf. Coleman made notes of his improvement in that time. "He is, by far, the most improved on the team. When he first came out, he was shooting 55 and 56 and, this year alone, he has brought in a pair of 38s."

Seventh graders on the squad are Walker Richardson, Weston Dean and Hampton Tiller. "All three have worked hard and shown great character. If they can learn to do the work that it takes to improve, Pee Dee golf has a bright future," Coleman said.

The Golden Eagles are 17-2-1 and are leading a division that includes them, Trinity, Byrnes and Kings.