Maȟpíya Lúta junior Zander Brave Heart is peaking at the right time. At last week’s meet in Philip, he fired a season-low 89 — his best round of the year — as regionals quickly approach.
“For myself, it was like practice,” Zander said. “To see where I get today and how I can improve later — just get there and end on a good note.” With little to no wind on the course, conditions helped, but it was Zander’s calm approach and focus that made the biggest difference.
“I used things like breathing before I take a shot to calm the nerves,” he said. “Even forgetting the last hole, telling myself I could do better or maybe just the same.” He also turned challenging lies into opportunities, using smart decision-making to stay consistent.
Zander hopes to carry that momentum into the postseason. “I want to continue to do good and work on anything I need to,” he said. “Work out any tweaks before each match and support my team any way I can.”
Heading into regionals, he’s focused on sharpening his driving and chipping, while also working on his mental game. “I need to work on not rushing myself and to take my time if I need to.”
With his best round now behind him and regionals just ahead, Zander Brave Heart is locked in and ready to lead.