Sports
St. Michael-Albertville Golfer Carries School's First Ever State Tournament Berth
While Erik Waldeland was disappointed with his play at the State 3A Golf Meet, he made history just by being there.
School has been out several weeks but the accolades for some athletes are still coming in.
One of this spring's best, of course, was St. Michael-Albertville junior Erik Waldeland, a first-time qualifier for the Class 3A state tournament in golf. Waldeland represented St. Michael-Albertville’s first appearance in the state golf tournament.
Even more surprising? Waldeland, son of Todd and Kathleen of St. Michael, has never had any formal golf training.
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“I’ve never had lessons, never been part of a league or anything,” he shared. “I started playing at Cedar Creek with my dad ten years ago.”
Waldeland’s first league experience was being part of the varsity school team in eighth grade. He liked it, so he stuck with it.
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He played last Tuesday and Wednesday in the state tournament at Bunker Hills and ended up 53rd overall.
“I don’t think I played very well, but I had a great time. It was a great experience,” Waldeland said. “I hope to be back next year and play even better.”
“I’m just so proud he made it to state,” Waldelands’ mom, Kathleen, shared. “I told him to enjoy the experience!”
Waldeland will be working this summer at Fox Hollow, but he also plans to play in Junior PGA events all over Minnesota.
