District News

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) — Union Redhawks junior Diane Howie captured the OK Gold Conference girls golf tournament title, shooting an 80 to win the event by two strokes.

“I felt very proud of myself and happy that I got this opportunity,” Howie said. “I was very focused and enjoyed the girls I was playing with. It was an amazing day!”

Her journey in golf began at an early age.

“I started golfing with the First Tee when I was 7 and continued into high school golf,” she said. “I love being on the course and how beautiful it always is and when I hit a good shot it feels great. I also love that this year we had a full team. Coach was able to recruit players, making it a great season.

Union coach Calvin Sielaff praised Howie’s accomplishments both on and off the course.

“I am extremely proud of Diane and everything she has accomplished this season,” Sielaff said. “She is an amazing student, golfer, and teammate. Diane has an amazing attitude, work ethic, and has a tremendous amount of respect for the game.”

Sielaff said the conference championship was the culmination of months of dedication and growth.

“Coming in first place in the conference tournament is a huge accomplishment, and I hope she is as proud of herself as we all are of her,” he said.

With the victory, Howie also secured third place in the overall All-Conference rankings. Sielaff said one of the highlights of the tournament was seeing Howie enjoy the moment while receiving support from her teammates.