Golden’s Prey sisters hit the golf links together
LAKEWOOD — Sydney Prey has less than two months of being the trailblazer for her younger sisters — Makena and Haley.
Golden High School’s Prey sisters — senior Sydney, junior Makena and freshman Haley — made their mark on the basketball court last winter helping to guide the Demons to their first Class 4A Jeffco League title in nearly a decade. Now, the trio is leading the way on the golf course.
Golf started as a family affair when the three sisters were young.
“It’s definitely more relaxed. It’s a whole different type of game,” Sydney said comparing golf to basketball with her two sisters. “It’s a lot more individual and you don’t have to rely on my sisters as much as I do on the court.”
Sydney capped off her final preps hoops season averaging more than 13 points per game as Golden had a 22-4 record.
She said Monday before teeing it up at Fox Hollow Golf Course in the second of six girls golf Jeffco League tournaments that she will decided in the next few weeks where she will play her college basketball. Sydney has narrowed down her landing spots to three Division II programs — Metro State University, Colorado Mesa University and University of Colorado-Colorado Springs.
Before heading back to the basketball court, Sydney is focused on finishing off her already accomplished prep golf career in style. The senior is a three-time state qualifier. Last year she placed tied for seventh at the 4A state tournament. She also finished tied for 38th (2015) and 42nd (2014) in the 5A state tournament when she was at Ralston Valley High School.
“You just have to stay focused and stay calm on the golf course because obviously on the golf course things can go south pretty fast,” Sydney said of advice she would give golfers during the quick two-month spring season. “You have to keep your composure.”
Makena, who averaged a double-double in points and rebounds during the hoops season, admits it has been good to have her older sister lead the way.
“It’s really nice to have her (Sydney). She kind of takes a lot of the pressure off. It makes it easier for us behind her,” Makena said. “We are definitely going to miss her as our No. 1. Hopefully we can fill in her spots next year.”
Makena is also a returning state qualifier. She placed tied for 32nd last year as a sophomore.
Then there is the youngest sister, Haley. The freshman shot a round of 87 at her first high school tournament at Applewood Golf Course before spring break. Haley’s round was good enough for fourth place.
“They have really helped me along with the process,” Haley said of leaning on her sisters. “It’s been really exciting.”
Golden is the favorite to win the 4A Jeffco League team title. Evergreen could challenge led by its three-time state qualifier in senior Natalie Holley.
After placing in the top-10 last year individually and helping Golden to a fifth-place finish in the 4A team standings, Sydney wants a little more.
“I’m definitely, obviously looking to win,” Sydney said of state. “At least place higher than I did last year.”
The state-qualifying regional tournament for most of the 4A Jeffco girls golf teams will be at West Woods Golf Course in Arvada on May 8. The 4A state tournament is at Colorado National Golf Club in Erie on May 22 and 23.
