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Warren JFK boys golfers have sights set on state
By Steve Ruman
WARREN
Warren John F. Kennedy boys golf coach Jim St. George doesn’t mince words when describing his team’s aspirations as it heads into sectional play.
“We have very high expectations to reach Columbus,” St. George said. “It’s not a cocky type of attitude. It’s just matter of our guys knowing they have the ability to get there, and understanding that the goal is very much within their reach.
“We came into the season shooting for state since day one. This group has always placed a lot of pressure on themselves, but they seem to thrive on that pressure.”
Kennedy begins its quest for state today when it competes in the Division III sectional at Riverview Golf Club in Braceville. A total of 15 teams will take part in the tournament, which tees off at 8:30 a.m.
The Eagles enter the tournament as a two-time defending sectional champion.
If the regular season is any indication, Kennedy has to be considered a favorite to defend its crown. JFK was 11-3 in dual matches, and 70-11 in invitationals. In addition to the impressive record, the Eagles appear to be peaking at the right time.
At the Yankee Run Invitational on Sept. 17, Kennedy shot a 303 to ease past the rest of the field. Its closest competitor, Ursuline, shot a 354.
The Eagles had the top four finisher. Ryan Fowler (71) topped the leaderboard, followed by Billy Phillips (76), James LaPolla (77) and Steven Macali (79).
“That was the best team finish we’ve had since I’ve been here,” St. George said. “Our magic number is 320. We always go into a competition with the goal of having our top four guys finish at 80. They exceeded our expectations.”
Two days later, Kennedy scored a 326 to win the North Coast League championship at Pine Hills. Fowler was tops overall with a 73. The other JFK scores were Lapolla with a 78, Macali with 87 and Phillips with an 88.
For the season, the Eagles own an average score of 324 — a five-year best.
“Coming into the season, we knew we had the physical ability to have a memorable season,” St. George said. “I felt as though if we concentrated on the mental aspect of the game, things would fall into place. So far, everyone has gone above and beyond in terms of preparation and concentration.
“A lot of this game is mental. A lot of it deals with your approach to different courses, different holes. And, a lot has to do with how you handle pressure. These kids, they have always handled themselves really well.”
Despite the high level of confidence, St. George is quick to point out that he and his team understand the uncertainty of the sport. At last year’s district tournament, the Eagles scored low enough to secure a second-place team finish and a berth in the state tournament. However, a scorecard which was filled out incorrectly resulted in a disqualification.
“This is golf. You can’t control weather, you can’t control how well the competition does,” St. George said. “A lot of factors go into whether an individual or team advances or goes home.”
Still, St. George is confident his team has what it takes to move forward.
“From both a physical and mental aspect, there are no concerns,” St. George said. “These guys have been anxious to get back to tournament play since last October. They’ve been focused all year long.”
The top three teams and the top three individuals not on a team qualify for district play, which will be held Oct. 4 at Seven Hills Golf Club in Hartville.