Stokes wraps up strong season at state

Sophomore Braden Stokes of the Aledo Bearcats competed at the Class 5A State Golf Tournament this week.

Photo courtesy of Stokes family

Continuing Aledo's strong tradition in the sport, sophomore Braden Stokes of the Bearcats completed his season by competing in this season's Class 5A State Tournament on Tuesday, April 30.

Stokes, a sophomore, posted a two-round total of 150 on the course at Legacy Hills Golf Club in Georgetown. He opened with a 2-over-par 74 and followed with a 4-over-par 76 to finish tied for 22nd in the field of 72.

"He played well and I'm happy he got to experience golf at a high level," Aledo coach Brian Mourning said. "Day 1 he hit the ball really well and never got in trouble. He missed several birdie putts that burned the edges or came up half a ball short."

Luke Colton of Frisco Wakeland won the individual championship, shooting a 136 (66-70), followed by Ryan Griff of Comal Smithson Valley at 140 (67-73). Smithson Valley captured the team title with a 572 (278-294) and Wakeland was second with a 586 (289-297).

Stokes and the entire field were also facing some weather conditions. Following weekend rains, the course was wet and slow on the opening day, Monday, April 29. Day 2 was windy, forcing scores throughout the tournament to increase.

 "As a sophomore, I thought he handled everything about the tournament really well," Mourning said. "At the state tournament you have to make birdies to get in the medal. He had some great runs at some but they just wouldn't fall for him.

"Overall, I think it's a great experience for him to carry forward with him.

"Hopefully we can get the rest of the team down next year. I'm glad we have him back for the next couple years so he can help get our team back down there."

This is the third consecutive season the Bearcats have been represented at the state tournament and the 15th time since 2005. The last time the entire team qualified was 2022.

Last season Braylon Mahanay competed at state individually. He is now a member of the Weatherford College Coyotes. 

Stokes qualified for state by shooting a 151 (75-76) at the 5A Region I Tournament in Lubbock. He also helped the Bearcats to another district championship, winning the 5-5A title at Sugar Tree Golf Club.