For years, Corvallis was the only Class A school to not offer golf as one of their sports. This fall, that will change. The Corvallis School Board will allow golf to be one of the fall sports, providing they can raise $15,000 prior to August 1st. School officials say that by not having golf, some students have transferred to Hamilton where golf is offered.
The money raised will go towards transportation, coach’s salary, fees and other costs that may arise throughout the season. The season begins early in August and is finished by the first week in October.
That’s a good thing for the new coach, Kristy Schlimgen. Schlimgen is also a volleyball referee and didn’t want to lose out on that season. This is not the first time Schlimgen has gotten in on the ground floor of a new golf program. Around 1993, she’s not entirely sure when; Schlimgen was on the first University of Montana golf team. She said it’s a sport that she will always be able to play and is very excited to bring that love to a new group of kids.
“The greatest thing about this is the game,” she said. “I’ve played a lot of sports but this is the one I’m still playing.”
There were about 25 kids who showed up for the first meeting and indicated their interest. With the deadline only six weeks away, the fledgling program is scrambling to raise the money. Their first event is on June 29th at the Stock Farm where a silent auction and live auction will be held. It will be a meet and greet and a chance to get to know the team members and coaches. For more information on this, call 961-5390 or email bengreenwoodinsurance@gmail.com.