File photo Holbrook is only the third Dawson County High School student, and second young woman, to sign to play golf with a major college program.

Those 30-degree mornings on the putting range at Kasay Holbrook's home course paid off last Tuesday afternoon when the Dawson County High School senior signed a scholarship and intent to play golf for Presbyterian College.

The Dawson County native will join the team this fall.

Holbrook, who has no definite plans for her major, said Presbyterian College, located in Clinton, S.C., was so much like Dawsonville that she felt at home on her first visit to the campus.

"It just seemed right for me," the reigning Region 8-AA champion and class AA State Runner-up said.

Holbrook is only the third Dawson County High School student, and second young woman, to sign to play golf with a major college program.

"We are here today to share in Kasay Holbrook's achievements. She is signing a scholarship to play golf at Presbyterian College. Kasay's going to do very well at Presbyterian. We're very proud of her," said Dawson County High School Athletic Director Grady Turner.

Surrounded by her family, friends and teammates April 29 in the library at the high school, Holbrook officially signed a partial scholarship that covers more than half her expenses with Presbyterian.

"My mom and dad, all my friends and family are extremely proud of me, because they knew I could do it," Holbrook said. She had already planned to play college golf her sophomore year. "And it actually happened and we're all real happy. My goal is to do my best and work my hardest and make a name for myself."

Head girls' golf coach Shari Chastain said there is no doubt in her mind Holbrook will succeed at Presbyterian. "I remember the day I met her and the first nine holes I played with her in the early fall her freshman year," Chastain said.

Following the round, Chastain said she knew Holbrook had potential to do well in the sport. "Her work ethic is tremendous. Her attitude is tremendous. She's got the mental game. She's got the physical game. I'm excited about watching her play in the future," Chastain said.

E-mail Michele Hester at michele@dawsonnews.com.

Originally published Wednesday, May 7, 2008