Focused on more than just his scorecard, McAlester junior golfer Kingston Young approaches every round with an aggressive but grounded mindset. “Make it to the state tournament,” Young said. “Beat everybody in it.”
That edge is shared across the Buffaloes’ lineup as they gear up for the season. “Everyone is looking forward for it,” he said. “We’re all working hard for the state tournament.” For Young, there is no question about how badly this group wants to succeed. “That we want it more than anyone else out there,” he said.
He believes that desire shows up first in how the team treats one another. “Having each other’s backs,” Young said when describing a key strength. “A great team chemistry,” he added. “Supporting teammates no matter what.” That bond, he feels, will matter as much as swings and putts when the pressure ramps up later in the spring.
Young has also developed a real appreciation for where he plays. “The layout,” he said of the course. When he faces tight tee shots, tricky approaches or must-make putts, he relies on a calm, collected approach. “Try not to overthink and stress about them,” he said.
That philosophy extends to his entire outlook on the sport. “To never be hard on yourself; golf is tough. Don’t make it any harder than it has to be,” Young said. He leans on music to help lock in before a round and keep his emotions steady. “Skyfall by Adele,” he said of his go-to song.
Some of his favorite moments in a McAlester polo have come while watching his teammates nearly do something unforgettable. “When we were playing and my teammate, Crew Allen, lipped out for a hole-in-one,” Young said, recalling a shot that was inches from perfection and instantly became a story the team still talks about.
Looking beyond high school, Young already has a clear picture of what he wants golf and academics to look like at the next level. “I hope to play golf in college and get a social working degree,” he said.
