T.F. North's Dennis Minefee knew he would play three sports in high school, but the three he plays are not the ones he thought he would.
Minefee expected to compete in football, basketball and track. Instead, he is on the golf, bowling and tennis teams.
In the seventh grade, Minefee was diagnosed with Osgood-Schlatter Disease, which can cause a painful lump below the kneecap. It often occurs in teenagers who are experiencing growth spurts, and contact and impact sports are discouraged.
"My doctor told me I couldn't play any sports that involved a lot of running, jumping or pounding," Minefee said. "I'll be honest, I didn't listen to him at first, but I realized I had better. It was tough on me because I liked those (other) sports and had played them my whole life."
What Minefee did decide was to try golf. He has been golfing for two years now, but Minefee still remembers the first time he and his dad went out to River Oaks to play.
"I remember I shot an 84 -- for nine (holes)," Minefee said. "I figured if I am going to play this game, I better learn to play it right."
After lots of practice, Minefee is North's top golfer while averaging 41 for nine holes. He shot an 84 for 18 holes at sectionals last year and hopes to qualify for this year's Class 2A meet.
"Last year, an 84 would have got me to state," Minefee said. "I think I can shoot that for 18, and I just work on those little things that you need to do to get better."
North coach Chad Spilde said Minefee is a product of hard work and dedication in both the classroom and on the golf course.
"He puts his best efforts into every aspect of his life," Spilde said. "His dedication to the game of golf, drive to get the best possible education he can, and his relationships with peers, teachers and family are top-notch. With drive like that, he will be successful in any situation he enters."
Spilde cited Minefee's playing in several summer tournaments against strong competition.
"He is doing what it takes to take his game to the next level," Spilde said. "He welcomes challenges and wants to go up against the best competition possible. He thrives on it."
Minefee also puts up good numbers in the classroom as he has a 4.6 GPA while taking advanced placement courses in U.S. history, chemistry and language/composition.
"You have to be able to do your best, whether in the classroom or on the course," Minefee said. "I work hard, but I do so to please myself. I am competitive in the classroom and I like to get good grades."
The junior said he would like to be a pharmacist.
"I love helping people and talking with them," Minefee said. "I love to listen to people's stories. I could sit all day and listen to what people have to say."
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