Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Dan Stanjevich, the head women's golf coach at Marian University. From his beginnings as a student-athlete at Marian to his unexpected rise to head coach, Dan shares his passion for fostering a supportive and competitive team culture. Discover how his unique approach, which includes involving parents and focusing on character over talent, has led to remarkable success on and off the golf course. Tune in to learn more about the vibrant community at Marian University and the opportunities it offers to student-athletes.

• The North South Invitational is a collaborative effort to enhance junior golf competition.
• Highlighting the successes of junior golfers is crucial for their development.
• The Invitational has expanded to include top teams from Indiana, increasing competitiveness.
• Course setup plays a significant role in the strategies employed by players.
• The Stableford format encourages aggressive play and strategic decision-making.
• Awards will recognize both team and individual achievements in the tournament.
• Kentucky's high school golf system allows individuals to qualify with just one event.
• There is a strong emphasis on player development and showcasing talent in both states.
• The conversation underscores the importance of community and collaboration in youth sports.
• Future events aim to further bridge the gap between Kentucky and Indiana junior golf.

Josie Kelley (Noblesville)

Lexi Ray (Franklin)

Alex Reschly (Northridge)

Kelsey Haverluck (Westfield)

In this conversation, a group of talented high school golfers from the 2026 class discuss their summer experiences, preparations for the upcoming season, and the bittersweet nature of their final year in high school golf. They share advice for incoming freshmen, reflect on their team dynamics and memorable moments, and set personal and team goals for the season. The conversation culminates in predictions for the state title race, emphasizing the competitive nature of high school golf in Indiana.

Takeaways

Playing golf over the summer is essential for preparation.
It's important to balance social life with sports commitments.
Incoming freshmen should not feel pressured to perform perfectly right away.
Team bonding and support are crucial for success in high school golf.
Enjoying the experience is more important than just winning.
Short game skills are vital for high school golf.
Building relationships with teammates enhances the overall experience.
Setting personal goals helps in individual growth as a player.
The state tournament is unpredictable and competitive.
High school golf creates lasting memories and friendships.

Sound bites

"Short game is really what matters."
"It's going to hit me on senior night."
"It's really anybody's game at state."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the 2026 Class of Golfers
02:04 Summer Reflections and Preparations for High School Golf
07:47 Team Dynamics and Memorable Experiences
12:24 Looking Forward: Upcoming Tournaments and Events
14:40 Influential Teammates and Role Models
16:48 Inspiration and Mentorship in Golf
18:31 Setting Personal and Team Goals
21:16 The Importance of Team Bonding
26:18 Reflecting on High School Experiences
31:59 Looking Ahead to the Future