The challenge and uniqueness of the game inspired Cache Ross to play golf. His determination and hard work have led the Elmore City Pernell ninth-grader to win both junior high golf tournaments he’s competed in so far this season.
Ross, who also runs cross country and plays basketball, began playing golf in seventh grade after being persuaded by the golf coach, Erik Yeiser, who was looking to start a junior high team.
Ross got a set of clubs and quickly felt “very much addicted” to the game.
“It’s something different that no one here plays,” Ross said. “It’s different than other sports. It’s a more mental game - not everyone can go out and hit. You have to know how to hit with all 14 clubs in your bag. Golf is an individual sport, unlike basketball, and I like the competitiveness of it.”
In addition to playing on the school team, he also competes in tournaments during the summer.
Last season with the Badgers, when he was in eighth grade, he placed in the top 10 at several tournaments, but never broke the top 3.
This season has been one of improvement, as he has claimed two individual championships so far. At Velma, Ross shot 38. At Sulphur, he shot 77, winning by three strokes.
“It feels great,” Ross said. “It’s a very good feeling to go and win a tournament. It’s not like a basketball game because you solely won that tournament, and it’s a totally different feeling.”
He also alternates between competing with the high school team. Ross placed 10th in Frederick.
“It’s not any different playing against high school kids,” Ross said. “It’s the same course, so there’s nothing to get nervous over. I just go out and play golf.”
In the long term, Ross wants to play golf at the University of Oklahoma and go pro. He comes from a long line of Sooner football fans, with his dad and grandfather loving OU.
His favorite golfer is Bryson DeChambeau, a former PGA Tour golfer who now plays in the LIV League. DeChambeau is known for his custom-made clubs and being one of the longest drivers.
“He’s a very likeable guy, one of the best golfers,” Ross said.
Ross attended a pro golf tournament in Dallas and saw DeChambeau and several other pro golfers play. The pro also signed a hat for Ross.
“It was so cool getting to see him in person, hitting shots you’d think were impossible to hit,” Ross said.
Similar to his favorite golfer, Ross’s strengths include driving and knowing what clubs to use while on the course.
He is currently trying to improve his consistency.
“I want to improve my entire game,” Ross said. “I’m just trying to get more wins.”
His favorite courses that he has played are Duncan and Lawton.
“They are both definitely difficult in their own ways,” Ross said. “I’m always up for a challenge. Going and playing a difficult course that challenges you and tests your abilities of what you can do.”
