Moving to the next level

Trey DePriest of Monette has finished his junior golf career and is looking forward to moving on to the college level at Henderson State University.

In July Trey came in third out of 80 in the ASGA Junior Match play. Trey has 86 junior golf wins in his career along with about 30 high school medalist awards.

Trey, a 2017 graduate of Buffalo Island Central High School, has loved the game of golf since he picked up his first club at the age of three.

He finished his high school career with four of four state championships, three as a BIC Mustang (9th, 11th and 12th grades) and one (his 10th grade year) at Jonesboro High School.

Golf has been a large part of his life but he did not neglect academics. Trey was a BIC honor graduate with a 3.86 grade point average. He was also a member of the National Honor Society.

Trey overcame a serious health issue during his junior year in high school. He had heart problems and underwent ablation heart surgery. He was only unable to play for a short time and was ready to get back on the course.

“I was not able to play for a short time after surgery and I realized just how much I was taking for granted,” he said. “I fell in love with the game all over again and really learned how to practice. I have always said if I ever quit loving the game I would quit. I just don't see that ever happening. It is a challenge between myself and golf. At the end of the day if I have played my best I will be happy. I will tip my hat to anyone who played better. I will then go on and strive to be better.”

His advice to younger golfers is to always do your best and master your craft and never lose focus.

“Golf is in your head,” he said. “Our mind controls our action in the game. Golf can be frustrating, especially when you are having a day when you know you can do better. Never give up, keep on striving to reach your goals."

Trey does strive to do better. He works hard and has not taken a day off since April. He has spent many hours at Big Lake Country Club and at Hot Springs Country Club working on his skills.

“Golf has opened doors for me,” Trey said. “I have had the opportunity to travel. I have met people who have become good friends. It has been a wonderful experience. I look forward to playing at the college level.

Trey has played in several junior tournaments this summer preparing for college. He made his decision early in his senior year to sign with Henderson State University at Arkadelphia. He will be leaving for college on Aug. 16 and is looking forward to the fall season playing with the Reddies followed by the spring season. He plans to study psychology.

“Last year the Henderson team won their fourth consecutive conference tournament and advanced to NCAA Division 2 Regional Tournament,” Trey said.

Trey is ready for the college level of competition.

“I seem to play better when there is more competition,” he said. “I have never liked losing. Strong competitors seem to bring out the best in me.”

Trey has set goals to work toward in the coming year – the Great American Conference Freshman of the Year and helping the Reddies to a NCAA championship.

“I am looking forward to college and playing golf for Coach Forrest Schultz,” Trey said.

He is the son of Thomas and Candie DePriest of Monette.

Trey said he appreciates his parents' support along with so many others who have encouraged him through the years.