The 2022 golf season drew to a close on May 25 for Colbi Smith after two solid rounds of golf in the Class D NSAA State Golf Championships at Lake Maloney Golf Course in North Platte.

This was not the first time the senior Bobcat has played at state, rather his third. “As a freshman, he placed 15th and in his junior year he placed eighth,” head coach Jarod Rush said. “He didn’t have a season his sophomore year because of Covid.”

Rush said the week was one that held many surprises as Smith played the course he is so familiar with.

“It was kind of a roller coaster ride,” he said. “Colbi didn’t play great on the front nine but really played well on the back nine on the first day.”

Smith was sitting in 12th place after shooting an 89 on day one.

Heading into day two, Rush said things flip-flopped just a bit.

“He shot a 38 on the front and came back with a 44,” he said. “It was good enough for him to earn 10th place, which is not too shabby.”

While some would be elated to have earned a third medal at the state championships in as many trips, Rush said Smith was a little down at the conclusion of the rounds.

“I know he was disappointed with his finish but he has nothing to be ashamed of,” Rush said. “He had a great season and a great high school career.”

With Smith’s graduation this spring, Rush will have some big shoes to fill in the coming seasons.

“We will definitely miss him and I wish him the best,” he said. “I have really enjoyed watching him play.”