HOT SPRINGS - The Custer Wildcats golf team finished in fifth place at the Class 'A' state golf tournament, higher than any other West River team.

"I'm very proud of these guys," said Custer head golf coach Paul Kelley, "I think the first day did a lot for us mentally. We got a lot of confidence from these guys playing well, and it carried over into today."

Johnny Couch led the way for the Wildcats shooting a two-day total of 158 for a sixth place overall finish. Couch was excellent off the tee consistently hitting fairways with quality approach play.

"You could always have a few shots back," said Couch, "My driving was really strong, but my chipping also got me through. As a team, we placed so I am happy with that. We are a good team and we will build on that for next year."

"Johnny could have been right in there had he not struggled on the back nine on the first day. But other than that he played the best 27 holes of our entire group."

Couch wasn't the only player who performed well at the tournament for Custer. Casey Whitney finished 14th with a score of 164 and freshman Chad Bryant came in with a 176.

"Casey and Chad both set the tone for us on the first day both shooting a 79. Johnny struggled on the back nine on the first day, but survived with an 82." Kelley said. "Then today, Chad and Casey did play like they wanted too, but Johnny picked up the slack. So it was a team effort, and we survived today and that was key."