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North Branch will be represented on Minnesota’s biggest high school golf stage next week after Nick Melvin and Jenna Minke earned trips to the Class AA State Golf Tournament at The Ridges at Sand Creek in Jordan.

Melvin captured the Section 7AA individual championship at The Quarry at Giants Ridge, leading the Viking boys to a third-place team finish in their first season competing in the section. The sophomore put together a strong two-day performance on one of the state's most challenging courses to claim the section crown and secure his spot at state. It will mark Melvin’s third consecutive appearance at the state tournament, adding another accomplishment to an already impressive high school career.

On the girls side, Minke continued her outstanding season by earning an individual state berth while helping North Branch make program history. The Vikings finished second in the Section 7AA tournament, marking the highest postseason team finish in program history and earning section runner-up honors.

Led by senior captain Annabelle Lattimore and junior captain Minke, the Vikings showcased the growth of the program throughout the season. Lauren Thiel, Gabby Derosier, Vada Basset and Sawyer Peterson also contributed to the historic team effort at Giants Ridge.

Minke finished among the section’s top golfers to qualify for state and continue a season that has helped elevate the girls program to new heights.

Both Viking teams impressed in their first year competing in Section 7AA,  as they previously had played at Pebble Creek in Becker as part of Section 6AA. They navigated the demanding layout at The Quarry and now, Melvin and Minke will look to cap their seasons with strong performances at state on June 9-10.

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