The Minot North girls’ golf team is making a statement this season, turning in consistent results across a series of tough tournaments and showing they are a force to be reckoned with in North Dakota high school golf. With standout performances from returning leaders and steady improvements across the roster, the Sentinels are proving their depth and determination on the course.
The season kicked off with the TMCHS Meet, where Minot North came away with an impressive second-place team finish at +19. The Sentinels put together one of their most balanced team efforts to date, led by Kinzy Welstad, who finished first overall with a stellar +1. Her strong play set the tone for the day. Close behind, Emersyn Kopp showed consistency by earning second place at +3, giving Minot North a 1-2 punch at the top of the leaderboard. Adding to the team’s success, Katelyn Bast cracked the top ten with a +6 to finish tenth. With three players inside the top 10, the Sentinels made it clear they were ready to compete at a high level.
The next test came at the East-West Classic, one of the toughest tournaments of the year with a competitive field from across the state. While the team placed ninth overall, the Sentinels still showcased their potential. Welstad led the team with a 160, demonstrating her ability to stay steady in a long two-day event. Kopp finished with a 165, keeping the Sentinels in the mix. Both Bast and teammate Ally added matching 183s, giving the team valuable depth. Though it wasn’t the finish Minot North had hoped for, the experience against top-tier competition gave the players valuable lessons that would carry over into their next meet.
Those lessons paid off quickly at the Watford City Invitational, where Minot North bounced back in a big way. The Sentinels earned second place as a team, once again proving their ability to compete at the top of the standings. The highlight of the day came from Welstad, who shot a 76 and claimed first place in a playoff to secure the individual title. Her ability to remain calm under pressure in the playoff hole reflected the leadership she brings to the team. Kopp also delivered a strong performance, finishing with an 81, keeping the Sentinels in contention for the team trophy.
The momentum continued into the Century Invite, where Minot North put together another strong showing, finishing fourth overall. Welstad continued her dominance, shooting a 74 to take first place individually, marking yet another tournament victory. Kopp followed with an 86, while Bast contributed a 96, giving the Sentinels another solid team finish against tough competition.
Through these early-season tournaments, one theme has become clear: the Sentinels are built on consistency and leadership. Welstad has been a force at the top, already racking up multiple individual wins and proving herself as one of the best players in the state. Kopp has been right behind her, finishing near the top of every tournament and providing the team with reliable scoring. Meanwhile, Bast and Ally have been steady contributors, rounding out the team and giving Minot North the depth it needs to stay competitive in every meet.
As the season continues, the Sentinels are positioning themselves as a team to watch. With Welstad and Kopp consistently among the state’s best and strong support from Bast and Ally, and Abby. Minot North has the talent to make a run at every tournament they enter. More importantly, the team’s chemistry and determination have set them apart, with each meet showing their growth and potential.
If these early results are any indication, the Sentinels are only getting started. With several major tournaments still ahead, Minot North girls’ golf has its sights set on even bigger achievements as the season progresses.
