Dunham and Northridge Advanced to IHSAA State Finals

Local golfers and teams secured their spots in the upcoming state championship after impressive regional performances.

Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Golf

Expressive sports illustration of a golfer mid-swing on a rolling course, capturing the movement and focus of tournament play. — Lucy Dunham and the Northridge golf team advanced to the IHSAA State Finals following successful qualifying rounds in regional tournament play this week. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Lucy Dunham qualified for the IHSAA State Finals after shooting an 80 at the Lake Central Regional. The Northridge golf team also punched their ticket to the state tournament following a runner-up finish at the East Noble Regional.

Why it matters

These regional results finalize the field for the upcoming state championship tournament. Athletes and teams must navigate high-pressure qualifying rounds to earn their place among Indiana's top competitors.

Lucy Dunham secured the third individual qualifying spot with a round of 80, while Northridge advanced with a team score of 327. Finley Baker earned medalist honors at East Noble with a 65, and Anya Puthucode qualified individually with a 74.

The players

Lucy Dunham

She is a student athlete who earned an individual qualifying spot for the state finals.

Northridge

This is a high school golf team that secured a runner-up finish to advance in the state tournament.

Finley Baker

She is a golfer who earned regional medalist honors with a score of 65.

Anya Puthucode

She is a student athlete who qualified for the state finals as an individual.

The details

At the Lake Central Regional held at Sandy Pines Golf Club, Dunham managed a 34 on the back nine to recover from a 46 on the front side. Northridge earned their spot at the state finals by finishing as the runner-up at the East Noble Regional held at Noble Hawk Golf Club.

September 25, 2026: Northridge competed in the East Noble Regional.
September 26, 2026: Lucy Dunham competed in the Lake Central Regional.
October 2-3, 2026: The IHSAA State Finals take place at Battle Ground Golf Club.

Season Trajectory

These regional results set the competitive field for the IHSAA State Finals, determining which individual golfers and teams will vie for the state title. Success here shifts the focus from divisional qualifying to the final championship bracket at the Battle Ground Golf Club.

Dunham's qualification was secured with a strong 34-stroke effort on the back nine, highlighting the importance of late-round consistency in regional play. Northridge moves on as a team, ensuring their full roster will compete in the upcoming two-day state championship.

The takeaway

Advancing through regional qualifiers requires a balance of individual skill and team depth to navigate varying course conditions. Golfers who successfully manage momentum over 18 holes are best positioned for success when moving to the state championship level.