Last year’s top-10 finish in the state by the Oxford boys golf team may not be in the cards this year, but Coach Terry Kelley said he has a solid group of linksters and hopes for a solid season and a return to the state championships.
Kelley said he has two seniors who will lead his group. They are Nolan Chapman and Nick Hocker.
‘These two will be solid for us and will provide great leadership,? Kelley said.
Two sophomores, Doug Schultz and J.J. Lewis also return from last year’s team and are expected to do well.
‘Their games have improved and they will help the team,?
Kelley said there are five golfers who should average under 40 for nine holes and another five who should be about 40-45.
‘We should do well in the league but we have moved up to Division One at the county level and that will be a real challenge for us,? he said.
The team will have eight dual meets and eight tournaments this season, which is the most ever for an Oxford team.
The team’s first meet will be at its home course at Devil’s Ridge against Lahser on Tuesday, April 10. ‘We are really looking forward to the season,? he said.
Kelley said the team has several other seniors that he expects will help the team. They include David Pearlman, Chris Brooks and Prescott Line.
Kelley said that Brooks has played three years on junior varsity and has improved his game to earn a shot on the varsity. ‘He’s ready for the challenge,? Kelley said.
Others on the squad who are expected to provide solid support are Alex Moore, Mike Hansen, sophomore Rolly Giberson and the only freshman, Matt Prince.
‘We expect a good season and then hopefully get through the districts, the regionals and hopefully the state.?