SHELBY — She drives a golf ball as well as anyone in the state and her work around the greens continues to improve, but the best part of Alexis Jones’ golf game is her persistence.
Just ask her coach.
The Shelby sophomore will make her second appearance at the Division II state tournament in as many years this weekend when she tees it up at The Ohio State University Gray Course in Columbus. Jones advanced with a second-place finish at last week’s district tournament at Sycamore Springs Golf Course in Arlington. She carded a 78, one stroke behind medalist and defending Division II state champ Makayla Dull of Kansas Lakota.
“She left a few stokes out on the course,” Shelby coach Brad Ruminski said after the district tournament.
To avoid such future letdowns, Jones prepared for the state tournament with a marathon seven-hour practice session on the practice green at Shelby Country Club on Sunday.
“I was ready to cry,” Jones said. “Putting is just repetition. You’ve got to stay focused.”
It’s that sort of dedication that could lead Jones to a podium finish this weekend. She shot a two-day total of 161 at state last year, good for a tie for 14th place.
“It is unusual in this day and age to see a young player with that kind of work ethic,” Shelby coach Brad Ruminski said. “Kids have so many distractions these days.”
Last year’s experience should serve Jones well this weekend.
“The biggest thing I took away from last year is just to stay focused on every shot,” Jones said. “If I focus and do my best, the results will speak for themselves.”
Ruminski agreed.
“If she maintains her composure,” Ruminski said, “there is no doubt she can get to the top of the podium.”
“The biggest thing I took away from last year is just to stay focused on every shot,” Jones said. “If I focus and do my best, the results will speak for themselves.”
