Lakeland’s Bayley commits to WSU golf

Lakeland standout golfer Derek Bayley has given an oral commitment to Washington State University.

Bayley, a senior, took unofficial visits to Oregon, Oregon State, Washington, Arizona, Arizona State and Gonzaga.

“It’s close to home. That factored into my decision,” Bayley said. “I really like the coach. He’s always been good to me. The guys on the team are good players. And I’ve played well at Palouse Ridge (WSU home course).”

Bayley had shoulder surgery in mid-August to repair a torn labrum – an injury he sustained last winter in basketball at Lakeland.

“It’s a four- to six-month recovery before I can even start swinging a golf club,” Bayley said.

He was Lakeland’s starting quarterback as a junior but had to bypass this fall for shoulder surgery.

“I’m glad to have this all over with,” Bayley said. “I’ve been in this (recruiting) process for more than a year.”

Lake City volleyball player Haile Watson has given Eastern Washington Eagles an oral commitment.

The 6-foot-2 middle blocker is the sister of Deon Watson, a former Coeur d’Alene football standout, who plays receiver as a redshirt freshman for Idaho.

NWC change

Northwest Christian’s football game Friday against Earl Marriott (British Columbia) has been canceled. NWC has added a game. The Crusaders will travel to Boardman, Ore., on Oct. 18 to play Riverside at 7 p.m.