Fresh off another trip to the Class 2A state tournament, the Arapaho-Butler boys golf team has its sights set on getting back to the big stage this spring with a veteran-heavy lineup and growing depth behind it. Head coach Jay Edelen said returning four starters with postseason experience gives the Indians confidence as they chase another state berth.
“Arapaho-Boys are coming off of another State Golf Tournament season, and look to return to State,” Edelen said. “The Indians are returning four starters who all have good playoff experience. The five bag is up for grabs and there are several team members looking forward to competing for that spot.”
One of the anchors is junior standout Quade Richardson, a mainstay near the top of the lineup since he entered high school. “Q is an amazing golfer and a great competitor,” Edelen said. “He will be the No. 1 or No. 2 bag this spring and we expect him to be a leader on our quest to the State Golf Tournament.”
Junior Kaden Waldrop, the team’s MVP, returns after playing a key role in last year’s run that included a state appearance in 2025. “Kaden is a two-year starter and has played a valuable role the last two years,” Edelen said. “Kaden is very capable on the golf course, and we are hoping he adds some consistency to his game. Look for big things from Kaden this year.”
The Indians also like the upside of freshman underclassman Trey Carlisle, who arrives with competitive golf experience and a reputation for putting in extra work. “Trey is a freshman we are expecting big things from,” Edelen said. “He has competitive golf experience and has worked hard to improve his game.”
Rounding out the group are players who bring leadership and intangibles. Jiles Southall is praised as an outstanding golfer and “even better kid” who sets the tone with his work ethic in sports and in the classroom. Meanwhile, Nate Hickey has pushed his way back into the starting lineup while also excelling in FFA shooting sports, and he plans to shoot in college.
With competition heating up for the fifth bag and proven leaders at the top, Arapaho-Butler believes it has the pieces in place for another strong postseason push.
