GENTRY, AR — The Gentry School Board approved the addition of a high school golf program at its meeting Monday, paving the way for both boys and girls teams to begin competition in the fall at Gentry High School.
The decision marks a significant expansion of opportunities for student-athletes in Gentry, where the district already fields 17 interscholastic teams through the Arkansas Activities Association. With the addition of golf, students will have even more ways to participate in school activities and represent their community.
“This is an exciting step forward for our students,” said Brent Hester, Gentry’s athletics director. “We’ve seen a clear increase in interest, and this gives more kids a chance to be involved, build relationships, and compete for their school.”
That interest has been evident in recent months. More than 50 students responded to an interest survey indicating they would like to participate, while over 20 students attended an informational meeting about the program.
“This isn’t something we’re guessing about. Our students have told us they want this,” Hester said. “They understand the commitment, and they’re ready for the opportunity.”
The district has also developed a plan to implement the program efficiently, with Rick Davies moving over from a football coaching position to become the school's golf coach. Davies has more than a decade of experiencing coaching golf.
For facilities, the program plans to partner with The Creeks Golf Course as its home course, providing student-athletes access to practice areas and competition space.
Financially, district officials say the program will be relatively low-cost compared to other sports. The school will provide team-issued gear such as polos, pullovers, hats, and golf bags, while athletes will supply their own clubs and personal equipment.
According to the Arkansas Activities Association, high school golf in Arkansas is structured as a fall sport with both boys and girls competing in regular-season tournaments that lead to conference and state championship play. The sport emphasizes individual scoring combined with team totals, allowing schools of all sizes to compete while also giving student-athletes opportunities to qualify individually for postseason competition. This format provides a unique balance of team camaraderie and personal accountability.
The addition of golf also represents a revival. The program was discontinued five years ago due to declining participation and the retirement of its head coach. With increased enrollment and renewed student interest, district leaders believe the timing is right to bring it back.
Beyond competition, golf offers distinct benefits for students. The sport requires focus, patience, and self-discipline, as athletes must manage their own performance over the course of a round. It also encourages goal-setting, integrity, and sportsmanship, as players often call penalties on themselves and learn to navigate both success and adversity independently. Additionally, golf is a lifelong activity that students can continue beyond high school, promoting physical activity, mental wellness, and opportunities for personal and professional connection.
“We feel confident this program will be sustainable and competitive,” Hester said. “Most importantly, it aligns with our mission of helping students connect, learn, and succeed.”
With the board’s approval, Gentry’s newest teams will begin organizing immediately, with the goal of teeing off in official competition when the high school golf season opens this fall.