The Warrnambool-based golfer is preparing to represent his state for a third time after making an under 17 team.

Best booked his ticket to Coffs Harbour in August after finishing third at the School Sport Victoria championships at Metropolitan Golf Club in Melbourne on Friday.

He fired a one-over par 73 – just one shot behind the winner – to qualify national championships.

Best, who is a member at Port Fairy, has also played for Victoria at under 12 and under 15 levels.

“It’s probably one of my biggest achievements, making three state teams,” he said.

“I know a lot of professional golfers didn’t get the opportunity to represent their state as much as this, so I am just pretty happy to be honest.

“It is pretty big, probably being the youngest team member. It’s just good to know I can perform against older kids.”

Best, who turned 16 earlier this month, said he took confidence into the state team qualifier and it paid off.

“I’d been in good form so I was hoping I could continue that good form but I had no expectations and just played golf really,” he said.

“I like the course. It sort of suits my eye a bit better than a lot of other courses.

“Some of the shot shapes you hit into play and off the tee you have to think about a bit more.”

Best is tempering his expectations ahead of the national titles.

“I just want to have fun really. I am not really expecting much,” he said.

“It is a lot of golf in six or seven days. I think it’s about nine or 10 rounds I have to play. I think my irons I need to work on the most. My short game is probably the best it’s ever been and I am driving the ball well which helps.”

Best will compete at the West Coast Amatuer – split across the Warrnambool and Port Fairy courses – from Friday. A Western District Golf Association men’s pennant title with Port Fairy is also on his wishlist.