The Altoona Area High School boys’ golf team wrapped up their 2024-2025 season, with all athletes missing spots in the District championships. Despite their best efforts, the team fell short of qualifying, but one player, junior Krieghoff Cumming, stood out as he led the boys’ team as an underclassman.
Cumming delivered strong scores, leading the team with his skillful play. This season he posted a 74 at Park Hills, falling short of his personal record he received his sophomore season which was a 72 at Bedford Elks.
“My personal best was the last match of the season my sophomore year,” Cumming said. “I just went out and had a good day, there was no science behind it.”
Sectionals is a match played against other teams in the area to determine whether they will make it to Districts; the top 10 will continue. This year’s sectionals were held in Sinking Valley.
“I felt a lot of pressure on that day, especially since I’m one of the older ones on the team now,” Cuming said. “My sophomore and freshman year, I didn’t feel any pressure.”
Despite the teams and Cumming’s best efforts, they will not continue to the District VI championships held at Scotch Valley.
“I went out, did good, but my junior season was just kind of rough,” Cumming said. “I plan to improve for my senior season and not let the pressure get to me.”
In order to improve, Cumming practices everyday. By putting and practicing a variety of shots, Cumming is described to be wise with his time.
“In practice he is very serious, he uses his time wisely and gets his work in, doesn’t really mess around. In matches, one he’s very talented, two he’s very determined,” head coach Chuck Meyers said. “I think his work ethic is off the charts; he practices at home and on the field, he’s all business. His work ethic is amazing.”
Cumming is described to be a good teammate on and off the course. He takes off pressures for younger teammates while also helping them improve with swings.
“He’s great with his teammates, the team looks up to him, and he handles it well. He’s great with everyone; to play with to talk to he’s tremendous,” Meyers said.
Now that his junior season is over and his focus shifts to senior year, Cumming’s goal is to have fun.
“Who cares what happens? I will do better if I have fun anyways,” Cumming said. “I’m just excited to see what next year will bring.”
