Bryleigh McBride, Freshman | Minot North High School
The North Dakota State Boys’ Golf Championship concluded this past weekend at the Vardon Golf Course, and among the standout teams was Minot North High School. Demonstrating exceptional skill, perseverance, and teamwork, the Minot North Minutemen secured their first-ever state title in boys’ golf with a combined score of 606 over 36 holes. Their victory reflects the dedication of the players and coaching staff, setting a new benchmark for their program and inspiring their community.
Vardon Golf Course, nestled in the scenic landscape of North Dakota, is known for its strategic layout, natural terrain, and beautiful views. The course’s layout challenged even the most seasoned golfers with its undulating greens, tight fairways, and demanding hazards. These elements tested the players’ accuracy, mental toughness, and consistency all weekend long.
Over the two days, teams faced grueling conditions…sometimes windy, sometimes sunny, but always demanding. Minot North rose to the occasion, displaying resilience and focus, ultimately securing the championship with a team score of 606. The victory marked a significant milestone for the program, which has been steadily building its reputation in North Dakota golf.
While golf is a team sport, individual performances played a crucial role in Minot North’s success. Leading the charge was senior Kasen Rostad, who posted a remarkable score of 146 across 36 holes, earning him third place overall in the individual standings. Rostad’s consistency and composure were evident, especially during critical moments when he sank clutch putts and avoided costly errors. His leadership and steady play served as a rallying point for the team throughout the tournament.
Following Rostad was Walter Langhans, who finished with a total score of 150, placing him 12th overall. Langhans exhibited resilience, especially on the course’s tougher holes, and his ability to maintain focus after a challenging first round helped propel the team forward.
Bennett Bartsch and Kyler Weishaar also contributed significantly to Minot North’s overall score. Bartsch finished with a score of 154, placing 19th, while Weishaar scored a 156, placing 16th. Their performances provided valuable depth, allowing the team to count on consistent scoring from multiple players rather than relying solely on a few individuals.
The Minot North boys’ golf team’s success was not solely about individual brilliance; it was about teamwork, strategic planning, and mental toughness. The players supported each other through the highs and lows of the tournament, having fun, while maintaining focus on their collective goal.
Leading up to the state championship, the Minot North team had a successful season, consistently finishing near the top in invitational tournaments and conference meets. Their rigorous practice schedule, combined with a focus on mental preparation and course management, prepared them well for the challenges at Vardon.
Several team members also credited their success to offseason training, coaching clinics, and the mentorship of the coaching staff. The team’s dedication was evident.
The Minot North community responded enthusiastically to the team’s victory. Students, parents, and staff. Local media outlets highlighted the team’s journey, emphasizing their perseverance and teamwork. The victory also inspired younger golfers in the area, fueling enthusiasm for youth golf programs and future tournaments.
With this first historic win, Minot North’s boys’ golf program has established itself as a major contender in North Dakota high school golf. The team’s core players will graduate next year, but the program’s foundation is strong, with promising underclassmen eager to step into leadership roles.
The 2025 North Dakota State Boys’ Golf Championship at Vardon was a showcase of talent, resilience, and team spirit. Minot North’s victory not only highlights individual excellence, particularly Rostad’s third-place finish and strong team scoring, but also underscores the importance of teamwork and mental toughness in achieving greatness.
This championship will be remembered as the first defining moment, and title, in Minot North’s athletic history. It serves as an inspiration for future generations of golfers and a testament to the hard work and dedication that can turn a dream into reality. As the team celebrates their victory, they carry with them the pride of being state champions and the motivation to defend their title in the seasons to come.
