Playing golf takes commitment, unless you’re Tiger Woods.
This commitment can be found in the varsity golf team as they work hard despite their record of defeat from 2011’s season. Last year was a difficult one for the golf team as they were placed in the challenging MIAA ‘A’ conference and won two non-conference matches but lost all eight conference matches. This year, however, the team has been moved down to the MIAA ‘B’ conference.
“We moved them to the ‘B’ conference and I think they will do well. It is a better fit for them,” Athletic Director Larry Dukes said.
The golf season began on Monday, March 5. Coached by Drew Forrester, the team consists of a small number of student athletes, most with limited previous experience.
“We have the most inexperienced team in the MIAA, with only one senior, Ethan Slusher, on the roster,” Roster said.
“I think the team with do better than last year, but we need more players to come out and join the team,” sophomore Brian Matejevich said. Matejevich has been playing golf for four years, two of which have been during his time at JC.
Junior Jon Leishman, who has been playing golf since elementary school, is hopeful for the season and the new members on the team.
“The differences [between this year and last year] are that, on this year’s team, we have a new assistant coach, Mr. Del Puppo, and new members. Not just freshmen but sophomores, juniors, and seniors that wanted to try the sport,” Leishman said. “I hope that we can continue to be competitive and stay consistent playing all year.”
Forrester has a high opinion of his team, both on and off of the field. “John Carroll golfers are respectful of the game and their opponents and will continue to be good ambassadors for the school while they are competing this spring,” Forrester said.
In preparation for the season, team members have been lifting weights in the weight room at school until practice began at the Maryland Golf and Country Club in Bel Air. The first scrimmage will take place on Monday, March 19 versus Our Lady of Mount Carmel and the first regular season match will be on Wednesday, March 28 versus Gilman.