Brooke Middle School (BMS) has proudly completed its first-ever golf season, celebrating both impressive accomplishments and cherished memories. At their final competition held at Wheeling Park Golf Course, the team marked the occasion with standout performances, including Evera Halstead taking home a medal. Throughout the season, the team came very close to hole-in-ones and frequently notched birdies, showcasing their growth and skill development.
For many of the students, this season wasn’t solely about competition—it was about learning the fundamentals of golf, from technique to the importance of etiquette and discipline. The BMS golf team consisted of dedicated sixth, seventh, and eighth graders, many of whom were new to the sport. Despite juggling other athletic commitments and extracurriculars, the players consistently made time for practices and matches.
The season wasn’t without challenges. The team contended with unusually dry conditions that left the fairways playing more like concrete than grass. Yet, despite the difficulties, the players’ determination shone through. In one instance, when a match was called off due to the harsh conditions, some students still wanted to continue playing. Older teammates often stepped in to help the younger players, carrying their bags and offering encouragement.
Coach Hilary Zurbuch expressed pride in the sportsmanship and camaraderie that the students displayed, both on and off the course. “Our players truly embodied what it means to BE a Bruin,” Zurbuch shared. “They supported each other, built friendships with students from other schools, and grew not just as golfers but as teammates. It was incredible to watch them develop.”
The team’s efforts extended beyond the golf course. They participated in community service, volunteering at Brooke Hills Park and contributing to the “Stuff the Bus” campaign. Their dedication to service further cemented their bond as Bruins, highlighting their commitment to both school and community.
The season wrapped up with a well-deserved banquet at Brooke Hills Park, the team’s home course. The event was a packed celebration of the players’ achievements, attended by proud parents, siblings, and grandparents. The evening perfectly wrapped up a season full of growth, perseverance, and teamwork. At the banquet, the team finally got to enjoy a night golf putting contest—something the kids had been eager to do all year. It was a fun way to celebrate their hard work and enjoy one last memory together as a team.
As the Brooke Middle School golf team reflects on this inaugural season, they look forward to future successes both on the course and in the classroom. With the foundation they’ve built, the future looks bright for BMS golf.