Watching MHS senior Garrett Emch sign his letter of intent is his mother, Jan, and father, Ed. Also in the photo are, from left, MHS Head Golf Coach Dave Tallman, MHS Principal Kathi Schmalz and MHS Athletic Director Brian Castilow.

Magnolia High School senior Garrett Emch will pursue his education and golf interests at Wheeling Jesuit University to study an area of the health field.

Emch’s athletic achievements include being the captain of the 2012 MHS golf team; a two-time member of the All-OVAC Golf Team; and a member of the Ohio Valley Golf League All-Tournament Team. He medaled nine times and tied for medalist in three other events. Emch also played one year of varsity basketball in his senior year, and was a member of the MHS Baseball Team his freshman year.

In academics, Emch has been on the Principal’s List, OVAC All-Conference Academic Team, a members of MU Alpha Theta Mathematics honorary, the Science National Honor Society, the National Honor Society and a member of the school’s Quiz Bowl Team. In addition, he earned honors as a Wendy’s Heisman State Finalist.

He was on the Civics Bowl Team, Student Council, a Homeroom President, and was entered in the American Math Competition and the Wetzel County Math Field Day. He was selected as a Rotary Student of the Month and was nominated for the West Virginia Promise Scholarship.

A member of the First Christian Church of New Martinsville, Emch has also has participated in a number of community services and organizations that include Young Life, a Volunteer Leader for Young Life, Wildlife Camp; two mission trips; Red Cross Blood Drive; Kid’s College; and Fall Festival for PTA/PTO.

He also assisted in the Esther Crumbley Food Drive and Salvation Army, Relay For Life, flood preparation and cleanup for members of the community. Emch has also worked for the New Martinsville Parks and Recreation Department and was referee for youth basketball games.

Emch attributes his success to golf pro Roy Shreves, who has been his instructor in golf fundamentals, rules, and sportsmanship for 14 years. Because of Shreves’ tutelage, Emch has been able to play on the top flight junior tour for 10 years and the Greenbrier Junior Championships.