Athletic competition may produce win-at-any-cost behavior but sportsmanship seems alive and well in Mercer County, at least with a Colonial Valley Conference high school golf team. Hightstown High boys golf team needed just one event to earn a sportsmanship notice. Matched against Trenton Central Hi gh School, which restarted its golf program after a 14-year hiatus, Rams players offered instruction, encouragement, and support throughout a match at Mountain View Golf Club. As nervousness and anxiety shadowed Trenton High golfers before they reached the first tee and struck their first competitive shots, Tornadoes players received pep-talk instruction from Jeff Drake, Hightstown High golf coach. “What an exciting time. I’m so happy to see golf back at Trenton High, thrilled because it’s a legendary place where I started my (physical education) teaching career,” Drake recalled fondly. Drake left just after the Tornadoes golf program had disbanded. He even attempted to revive the sport but officials said the numbers never matched up to continue competition. “So, now, seeing these student-athletes back out here and enjoying this sport — it puts a smile on my face,” Drake said. “Glad to see it back, hope it stays here forever. And, of course, I hope they learn to love this game because it teaches players so much about life and themselves.” As tee time approached, Drake offered words of encouragement to Trenton High players. “Just go out there and have fun,” Drake said. “If you’re unsure about something, need help with anything, just ask one of our players.” Both round and day played long for Trenton High players who survived their first competitive round of golf. “We made it through, everyone finished although the round played slowly. The cold and windy conditions made it a little tough,” said Tornadoes coach Dan Mesday. “I’m glad they all played and it was good many were frustrated because they didn’t hit many of the shots they wanted. They want to improve. “I want to thank the Hightstown players for being patient and for helping our team during the round. They made a challenging day easier.” ...read more read less