Episcopal Day School golf team runs streak in tournament to 15

For 15 years, Episcopal Day School's golf team has dominated the Aiken/Augusta Private School Golf Championships.

The team's 15th win came April 22 after a two-day competition. EDS won by 17 strokes, beating out -- in the order that they placed -- Augusta Preparatory Day School, St. Mary's School of Augusta, Westminster Schools of Augusta and St. Mary's School of Aiken.

A key to the win was remaining focused, EDS players said.

"When we're on the course, we focus on what we need to do and just play," said Carson Spears, 14, who placed fifth individually. "We get into a good mental state where we can concentrate on what we're doing and not everything else around us."

Team members practiced often, and each week they had a qualifying match.

"We played golf a lot," said Austin Knox, 12. "I wanted to practice as much as I could, so I played the game almost every day."

Teamwork was also important, said William Marks, who tied for third place individually with teammate Franklin Sims, 14.

"We work really well as a team," said the 13-year-old. "We give each other pointers on how we can improve, because we want everyone on the team to be their best."

EDS Athletic Director Carol Trammel said the team is looking forward to continuing its winning streak.

"We've been very fortunate," she said. "It's has been fun establishing this winning tradition. It's been a good, long run, and you never want it to end. Next year, we are definitely looking forward to winning for the 16th year."

Greyson Sigg, 14, placed first individually in the competition. Other EDS team members are: Peyton Bailey, 13; Mati Gibbs, 13; and Austen Stokes, 14. Coaches are Michael Stokes and David Sigg.

Reach Nikasha Dicks at (706) 823-3336 or nikasha.dicks@augustachronicle.com.