On October 15, Brookfield East Junior Payton Haugen took second in the WIAA Girls Golf Championships for the second year in a row, finishing with a score of six (-6) under par. Haugen tied for first and forced a playoff hole against Beaver Dam / Wayland Academy’s golfer to become one of only three student-athletes in WIAA history to score a record 138 strokes through 36 holes.
Payton shot 68 on Day One, ending the day three strokes behind the leader before battling back on Day Two with a score of 70 to force a playoff against McKenna Nelson. “Payton’s drive and enthusiasm for the game sets her apart in every way," shared Coach Mike Serath. "Seeing her determination translate into such a historic performance this year has been a thrill. Payton has proven that she is one of the best golfers in the state and has helped elevate girls golf at Brookfield East to a new level.”
The girl were joined by teammates Macy Clegg, Emma Holzmacher, Shivani Sharma, and Elizabeth Zuniga-Meyer, and the team finished in fifth place overall. Congratulations to Coach Serath and all the golfers on an amazing season!
Photo courtesy of Tork Mason, USA Today NETWORK-Wisconsin