Boys golf program returns veteran squad

The Sisters High School boys golf team returns three junior players including Jonathan Standen, Cody Farr-Baenziger and Aaron Simundson.

Standen is a taller and stronger player than he was last year and, according to Coach Jeff Barton, has made big improvements in his game. He worked hard in the off season and played in several Oregon Golf Association (OGA) and Central Oregon Junior Golf Association (COJGA) matches during the summer months.

"Jonathan is a consistent player all-around," said Barton.

Farr-Baenziger is the Outlaws' most consistent golfer.

"Cody hits the ball within one stroke every match," said Barton. "He needs to maintain the same high caliber of play as he had last year."

Simundson worked at Aspen Lakes Golf Course over the summer and took advantage of their facilities to make himself a better player.

"Every aspect of Aaron's game is better," said Barton. "He's a smarter player, has a better swing and manages the course batter. He's found it's easier to play from the fairway than from the brush."

New to the team is Elio Keller, a senior foreign exchange student from Switzerland who drives the ball very well.

Barton told The Nugget that Keller was a nice surprise and will definitely make the team better.

Freshman Jalen Miller and sophomore Jeff Fought are new to the team and will round out the Outlaws squad.

"Jalen has played a lot of golf, especially for a freshman, and shows a fairly mature game," said Barton. "Jeff has got great potential and just needs to practice."

"I think we could be sneaky good. Our goal is to make it to state for the fourth consecutive year," he said.