State champion Mules headed to National Invitational

Only weeks after proving that they are one of the best boys golf programs in the state, the Poplar Bluff Mules will get the opportunity of a lifetime to compete against some of the best high school golfers in the country.

The Mules are still coming off the high of breaking a 28-year drought of winning the MSHSAA Class 4 boys golf state title, but they will have to stay locked in a little while longer after being invited to play in the 2024 High School Golf National Invitational.

The 54-hole event showcases 312 of the best high school golfers in the country, and the tournament will be held from July 1-3 at the Omni PGA Frisco Resort in Frisco, Texas.

As a native of Texas, Mules coach Tyler Davis is excited about the opportunity to extend the season and watch his team compete against some of the best. Lawson Barks, Corban Thomas, Chaz Love, Landon Barks and Caiden Luck will each get the chance to showcase their golf skills on a massive stage.

“I’m really excited, especially since it’s back in my home state,” Davis said. “I wasn’t aware that we had nationals, but I’m really looking forward to it. The guys were all saying how they wished the season could last a little longer, and then it’s crazy how our wish was granted. They’ve worked hard all season, and I just want them to enjoy the experience as well as compete.”

The Mules received a letter and certificate from the National High School Golf Association congratulating them for winning the Class 4 state golf championship. Shortly after receiving the letter, the Mules were invited to a competition exclusive to state championship-winning teams.

Davis said there were better ways to characterize the team’s reaction to getting invited than excitement. The emotion was one of shock since they expected their time playing as a team was over.

“Everyone is really excited about staying on the scene a little bit more,” he said. “When they found out about the different activities and the different people that are going to be there really got them excited. I saw a few nerves begin to rise up, which I’m glad I saw because that means they want to do well. I’m glad we found out about it early because that gives us a moment to settle our minds before we step onto the course.”

As for expectations, Davis said he’s keeping an open mind. He believes no team can go into a national tournament prepared because their many great teams showing up.

“I feel like we have a pretty good shot at placing near the top,” Davis said. “I know everyone on this team is solid. I’ve looked at the scores of last year’s national winning team, and I believe we can hit those numbers. If everyone can stay composed for three days, I feel like we have a shot at winning. I know it’s going to be difficult to hold nerves back because we will be playing in front of a lot more people than we had a state.”

Davis said it’s a cool moment that he gets to bring a state championship team back to his home state.

“I never thought I would even have a chance to do something like this,” he said. “I’m really just looking forward to the atmosphere and seeing all the great golfers. I’m excited for the Mules, and I can’t wait to see what this tournament has to offer.”