Bon Homme Secures Historic Class B Boys Golf Title at State Championship

BROOKINGS — Bon Homme High School celebrated a significant achievement as they clinched their first-ever Class B state championship in boys golf during the tournament held at Brookings Country Club. After a strong second day of play on Tuesday, the Cavaliers finished with a two-day score of 472 (234-238), outpacing second-place Philip, which ended with a total of 478.

The triumphant team featured standout performances from Michael Branaugh, Madden Merkwan, and Kashius Tucker. Bon Homme started the competition in third place but surged ahead after the first round, overtaking both Philip and Wessington Springs. Clark/Willow Lake secured third place with a score of 480, closely followed by Hill City at 481 and Wessington Springs at 482.

Madden Merkwan was a key player for the Cavaliers, finishing tied for 11th with a score of 154 after shooting a 2-over-par 74 on Monday and an 80 on Tuesday. Michael Branaugh followed closely, ending in a tie for 14th with a total of 155. Kashius Tucker concluded the tournament tied for 42nd with a score of 163.

On the individual front, Aiden Abraham from Hamlin emerged as the Class B state champion, delivering a remarkable second round with a 3-under-par 69, bringing his total to 146. He finished two strokes ahead of Kaiden Weinreis from Doland, who totaled 148, while Webster Area's Seth Lesnar took third at 149.

In the girls’ competition at Edgebrook Golf Course, Brynn Roehrich from Clark/Willow Lake achieved her third consecutive state title, finishing with a total score of 141. Roehrich's rounds of 74 and 67 secured her victory by a significant margin over Miller's Jayce Pugh, who scored 154. Clark/Willow Lake also won the team championship with a score of 481, edging out Dell Rapids St. Mary's and Miller.

This year's tournament showcased the remarkable talent across South Dakota's high school golf scene, with both individual and team performances leaving a lasting impression.