Messenger photo by Britt Kudla: St. Edmond girls golf returning letterwinners are (left to right): Lilian Shin, Ellie Driscoll, Caitlin Croonquist and Kara McGonegle.

Kelsey Felch is hoping her St. Edmond girls golf team takes a significant step forward competitively in 2023 — as long as the Gaels are also enjoying themselves along the way.

Felch welcomes four varsity letterwinners back to the lineup card for a second consecutive season this spring. The physical and mental experience of having that many upperclassmen has the former St. Edmond all-stater — an eight-time city golf champion herself — excited for the opportunities and possibilities.

“I’m looking forward to a great season,” said Felch, who played collegiately at Park University in Parkville, Mo. “This group of ladies works hard and has fun in the process. They support each other well.”

Senior Lilian Shin is back, alongside juniors Ellie Driscoll, Kara McGonegle, Maddie Hepperle and Caitlin Croonquist. Lacey Larson, who joined the squad in 2022, also returns.

Shin, McGonegle and Driscoll competed in every varsity meet last year.

“I’m counting on Lilian and Ellie to lead the team as they did last year,” Felch said. “We talk a lot about the mental side of golf, especially what we can and can’t control.

“We definitely need to work on short game, which will come with being outside more.”

The Gaels have a dual against Southeast Valley at Lakeside on Tuesday to open their season. They face South Central Calhoun at home on Friday.

St. Edmond will also host the CYO Tournament on April 26. The North Central Conference meet is May 8 in Mason City.