Warrenton golfer Merrick Owens is looking to help lead the Lady Warrior golf team to a successful season, while also hoping to return to the state tournament. 

A junior, Owens returns to the Warrenton golf team after qualifying for the state golf tournament last season. Owens and Sam Butkovich, who was a senior last year, both represented Warrenton at the state golf meet last season. Owens placed 53rd at the state meet last year and has her sights set on a return to the state meet and top-30 finish this season. 

When did you start playing golf and how did you get into the sport? 

I played when I was younger. I gave it up for a little while to try new things and then I came back to it right before freshman year. 

Was there a challenge in starting to play golf again? 

It was a little slow at first and then it came back pretty naturally. 

What are your strengths on the golf course? 

I’m getting much better at the mental part of it. That’s pretty challenging sometimes. But I’ve gotten a lot better at it. I think overall I’m growing as a player compared to where I was freshman year so I’m really proud of that. 

What are the keys to being mentally stronger as a golfer? 

My coaches, Coach Anderson and Huff both help me a lot with that. And then my dad did too. He plays a lot of golf with me. 

What are your takeaways from playing at the state golf meet last season?

It was completely different than all the other matches that I’ve ever been to. There’s super loud music. It was really cool to get to go with the senior (Butkovich) that I played with. It was a lot of fun. 

Do you have certain goals for the season? 

I would really like to go back and place in the top 30. That would be awesome. But if not, then I tried my hardest. 

Do you play any other sports? 

No, just golf. 

Do you play golf year round or do you take a break after the season? 

I try to do it year round. A lot of times in the offseason when it’s snowy outside you can’t do much. But I try. 

How do you think the season has gone so far for you and the team? 

I think it’s gone pretty well so far. I’m proud of where both myself and my team have come. So I think that it’s going to be a good season. 

What do you like about being on the team and golf in general? 

I like having relationships with the girls. I like getting to come out and do something with people who are my age and who can relate to me a little bit better. 

Have you seen a difference in your game sophomore to junior year? 

I think both my state experience and then having a hole in one last year kind of boosted my confidence a little bit. So I’m a little bit more proud to be here.

How have you adjusted to being more of a leader this season? 

It’s definitely different. But it was really great to see how she (Butkovich) did it and I’m kind of trying to follow in her footsteps to the best of my ability but also put my own twist on it. 

Favorite Subject in School: Science 

Favorite Food: Pasta 

Ideal Travel Destination: Italy