Decatur Gators boys and girls golf teams hit the course following the first day of the new school year Thursday. The girls team returns all varsity this year.

Last year, the team was fifth at the state tournament and undefeated in their division. However, according to Coach Rick Dennison, they did not “field a team for medalist.”

“We plan to do better this year with all members being a year older,” Dennison said.

Top golfers Stacy Blunt, Amanda Beyke and Samantha Zeeb return after going to state last year.

Boys golf also returns with some familiar names. Gavin Cuddie and Mikael Pitzer are the most experienced players on the team. Juniors Hayden Lloyd Braun and Jacob Foy have the potential to be great high school golfers, according to Coach Kevin Olson.

Olson is counting on the efforts of every player to keep up with the other teams in the division.

“We are going to work hard and try to improve every day we step onto the course,” Olson said.

Both teams will play against Todd Beamer High School on Tuesday, Sept. 10.