On a brisk Monday at Rock Creek Golf Course in Sapulpa, the Henryetta Lady Knights wasted little time making a statement to open their 2026 spring season.
Competing in a strong 17-team field, the Lady Knights battled through chilly conditions to earn a third-place team finish, trailing only Class 5A private school Bishop Kelley and Class 4A private school Holland Hall. Henryetta finished just eight strokes behind Bishop Kelley and seven strokes back of Holland Hall, an impressive showing against larger private-school programs.
The season-opening tournament not only showcased Henryetta’s depth but also highlighted the emergence of young talent ready to lead the program this spring.
Freshman Madi Devore turned in a standout performance in her very first high school tournament. Devore fired a 93 to claim seventh place individually, immediately establishing herself as a key contributor for the Lady Knights. Competing against seasoned upperclassmen from across the region, the freshman displayed poise and consistency well beyond her years.
Sophomore Aubrie McGowin was close behind, carding a 94 to finish in a tie for 10th place. McGowin’s steady round gave Henryetta two golfers inside the top 10 – a significant factor in the team’s podium finish. Her experience from last season appeared evident as she navigated the course’s challenges and the cold weather conditions.
Providing additional scoring for Henryetta was sophomore Cialee Watkins, who posted a 104. Watkins, competing in the No. 3 bag, delivered a solid round that contributed valuable strokes toward the team total.
Juniors Maddie Carter and Ella Thompson rounded out the varsity lineup, shooting 110 and 111 respectively. Both upperclassmen battled the elements and a competitive field, gaining early-season experience that will be valuable as the schedule progresses.
Freshman MacKenzie Fletcher also competed as an individual, shooting a 125 in her debut outing. While not counted toward the team score, Fletcher’s round marked another step forward for the program’s younger players as they gain tournament experience.
Opening the season with a thirdplace finish in a 17-team tournament sets a positive tone for Henryetta’s spring campaign. Competing closely with respected private-school programs like Bishop Kelley and Holland Hall demonstrates that the Lady Knights are ready to contend throughout the season.
The chilly temperatures in Sapulpa did little to cool the Lady Knights’ momentum. With two top-10 finishes and multiple underclassmen contributing in meaningful ways, Henryetta showed both present strength and future promise.
The Lady Knights will look to build on Monday’s performance when they travel to Purcell next Tuesday for their next tournament action. If the season opener is any indication, Henryetta will be a team to watch as the spring unfolds.
