In a town where sports mean more than just games, and schools are bitter rivals, sophomore Henry Birt has quickly become a name to watch. During a meet at Geneva Country Club in Muscatine, Birt led the team with a personal best of 75 on 18 holes. However, Birts skills on the course isn’t the only thing that makes him stand out, it’s his support of his teammates and his dedication to helping those around him achieve success.
Assistant boys golf coach Jonathan Rogers attests to Henry’s work ethic, “Henry is a great kid. He always shows up to practice and works hard. He’s a long ball hitter, so we’re working on his short game and keeping it in the fairway.”
Earlier this fall Henry Birt played a large role in the success of the boys varsity golf team. As he stepped up to the tee box of the Little Hawks home course , Pleasant Valley, Birt was dialed—shooting a career best 73 over 18 holes. Birt is an avid golfer, who is a young leader that shows all the traits of what it means to be a competitive golfer. Birt says he felt good about the season overcoming many ups and downs.
“I made some changes to my swing and it all started to come back to me,” Birt said.
Birt has been playing golf since he was three and he describes his love for golf as coming from his father. Birt remembers how his dad first introduced him to golf.
“I can remember seeing him [Birt’s dad] at the range hitting, and wanting to try it myself and found out I didn’t want to stop.”
In the upcoming offseason, Birt will play in Iowa junior tournaments and AJGA tournaments, as well as playing baseball.
Henry advises younger golfers to listen to people trying to help.
“You never know what one little key will advance your game to the next level,” Birt said.
Birt’s greatest inspiration is his father and coach. Always giving advice, whether wanted or not, and always pushing Henry to be the best golfer he can be. Henry reflects this in his own leadership by constantly pushing his teammates to be better, and offering advice to other golfers on the team. He is an aspiring leader and a key player to thisteam and feels as though he is ready to answer the call of being a young leader this next season.
Looking forward to next season Birt and his coaches are optimistic. Assistant Coach Jonathan Rogers sees Birt becoming a significant piece to the Little Hawks success.
“He had a really solid year, and I think he’s fired up with his progress and ready to get even better for next year,” Rogers said.
Henry’s goal for next year is to make it to state and break 70 while becoming first team all-conference.
Birt knows the role he will have to fill, but feels as though he is ready to accept the challenge.
“I know it will be a challenge losing seniors who were vital to our success last season. The team will be younger next year, but we have a lot of potential,” Henry said.
