SOUTHEAST GOLF PROGRAM SIGNS CENTRAL'S MCLAIRD

Dane McLaird, Cape Girardeau Central High School's most consistent golfer the past four years, is hoping to have the same type of success on the collegiate level.

McLaird, a Central senior, recently signed a letter of intent with Southeast Missouri State University.

"I'm pretty excited," he said. "I was wanting to play Division I golf and now I'll have the chance."

McLaird has been a varsity regular for the Tigers since his freshman year. He is a two-time state qualifier who last year captured the Class 4A, District 1 title, then finished 20th at the state meet.

"Dane has been either our No. 1 or No. 2 player the last four years," said Central coach Dick Wadlington. "He's been a very consistent player those four years. He's done a real nice job for us."

McLaird certainly got a good head start on becoming an accomplished golfer.

"My dad (Larry McLaird) played on Central's 1964 team that won state and he got me started pretty early," he said. "I've been playing golf all my life. I've had golf clubs since I've been about three years old."

McLaird said his primary goal is to win the Class 4A state championship this year, although he realizes that will be an extremely difficult task.

"I know there are so many good golfers," he said. "If I can't win state, I at least want to finish in the top 10."

McLaird certainly has lofty aspirations for his adult life. He said he wants to major in landscape architecture and eventually design golf courses for a living.

"My playing has got me interested in it and also working at the (Cape Girardeau Country Club) golf course," he said.