Hannah’s absence tests CHS golfers
The Clinton High School boys golf team got off to a slow start to the 2026 season early last week.
Playing without its top player, senior Grant Hannah, the Dragons finished third in a four-team match against Anderson County, Karns and Oliver Springs at Centennial Golf Course on Monday, July 27.
Hannah was competing in a junior tournament in Illinois while his teammates opened the high school season. Anderson County won the match with a team score of 166, edging Karns by one stroke. Clinton finished with a 177, while Oliver Springs posted a 200.
Karns’ Dax Truax earned medalist honors with an even-par 36.
In Hannah’s absence, JP Robbins paced the Dragons with a 41. Newcomer Eric Newport followed with a 42, while Aden Golden carded a 44. Zander Ford rounded out Clinton’s scoring with a 50.
Despite the season-opening loss, Dragons coach Matt Cain saw several encouraging performances.
“This is Eric’s first year and his first match, and he shot 42,” Cain said. “He went from being my No. 5 to being my No. 3. I’m really proud of him.
“JP did a great job. He led the team with a 41. He did a good job leading the team and being No. 1 with Grant not there.”
Anderson County was led by Max Stanfil, who shot a 38. Maddox Tackett carded a 42, while Luke Baldwin and Hoyt Chadwell each added a 43.
Clinton’s second match of the week, scheduled for Egwani Farms Golf Course in Blount County, was postponed because of rain.
