Drake Devereux doesn't view time spent with younger teammates as a chore. The Boone Grove senior golfer relishes the chance to "return the favor."
Devereux is a four-year starter for the Wolves. Past teammates like individual state qualifiers Tyler Nicol and Taylor Noel shared their time.
"Throughout my career, I appreciated the time they spent with me," Devereux said. "They brought me up, and it's the right thing to do.
"I'm doing this so we can be successful a a team, and I want to try to help this team get back to state."
Devereux was key factor in last year's program-first team appearance, carding team-lows of 74 at regional and 75 during the opening round of the finals.
"He's really matured the last couple of years," Boone Grove coach Gary King said of Devereux, an IPFW recruit. "He'll be an excellent leader for us."
King said Devereux got a head start on his captain's role by working with the younger golfers last season, including raw freshman Jeremy Shaffer.
A year later, Shaffer might contend for the No. 2 spot on the team and be one of the future leaders of the squad.
"I think Jeremy will be a big help this season," Devereux said. "We've been friends, and I see his potential. I've been sharing some inside scoops about the game."
Returning starters like Tony Spalla and Zach Hoskins are also bending Devereux's ear for guidance.
"It makes me feel great that my teammates look up to me," Devereux said. "They can come to me and say, 'Hey, what am I doing wrong?' It feels cool to help teach them how to handle the pressure in big matches."
Devereux still takes time to refine his game with King.
"He's learned how to score," King added. "He had the physical talents, but now he understands what the short game means. He comes to me to work on his putting and chipping. He works hard at it."
Devereux is also hard at work trying to make this season memorable for his coach. King will make this his 12th and final season as head coach of the Wolves. Assistant coach Bob Lucas will take over the team next season.
Devereux would love to send his coach out on a high note with a return to the state finals.
"I cannot really explain how much he's done for me," Devereux said of King. "I've known him before high school. I appreciate that he's decided to stick around with us this season — and I thank him for that.
"I want him to go out with a bang."
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