Amid the blazing Texas heat, the Mercer Island High School (MIHS) boys golf team competed at the 2023 PGA Boys High School Golf National Invitational.

In Frisco, with the scorching and humid weather reaching 100 degrees and beyond, the Islanders finished 25th out of 50 teams while competing on three courses, two of which lie on the brand-new PGA headquarters: Golf at Omni PGA Frisco Resort. The team stayed at the resort during the competition, which occurred from July 17-19.

The players were class of 2023 graduates Spencer Smith, Evan Otte and James Wooje Chung, along with rising seniors Elliott Hoang and Wonjoon Seo. Coach and adviser Tyson Peters joined the team on its trip.

In a message to the local golf community, Peters thanked Island residents for supporting the team along the way.

“It was a once-in-a-lifetime trip for everyone, so many great memories made,” he said. “The boys played great, fought hard, and represented Washington state and Mercer Island well. I was very proud of them. Thank you also for helping me be able to join the team and coach them one last time. This was a special group and a perfect end to my coaching career. I will miss this group very much.”

Added Mike McDonald, manager of the PGA National High School Golf Association: “Congratulations to everyone on a great week — we hope you enjoyed your time at the Home of the PGA of America and made some awesome memories.”

Team Georgia (RVA) successfully defended its title, and Sumner was the highest Washington state placer at 15th.

All players received gift bags for participating in the event that included a PGA backpack, Titleist hat, golf balls, golf towel, a leather scorecard cover and a $150 gift certificate to FootJoy.

In 3A state tournaments the last two years, MIHS placed sixth in 2023 and notched the championship in 2022.