Special Report

Chestnut Ridge Country Club
Club Championship ~ Final Round
July 17, 2011

Chad Vaughn assumed the stance countless times throughout the day, just as he had so many times before in so many rounds of golf - leaning against his driver, feet crossed, hand on his hip.  Staring across the linksland, and periodically to the sky, he fought back recurrent emotion in consideration of his grandfather's passing only the evening prior.  A role model to Chad his entire life, he had passed away gently in the night - ending a fruitful life of more than ninety years.  His passing prior to the final round of a three day stroke play competition - one that found his grandson tied for the lead heading into the closing 18 - found the 36 year old competitive veteran and eight-year Boys' Latin Golf Coach routinely choked-up in consideration of the circumstance.  It was his grandfather who taught Chad to never give up, to walk tall, and to always operate with integrity.  It was his grandfather who affirmed Chad in his life's journey, who encouraged him to develop his talents, and who always stood ready to assist when times got tough.  His grandfather had been a mentor, a friend, and a hero.  Today, he was an inspiration.

Caddying for his coach was Boys' Latin Senior, Ben Field.  Nearly twenty years Chad's junior, Field's place in the picture was perfect.  Relatively new to the game, he completed his first full season on the golf team in 2011 - serving as team captain and regular starter in the 6 man order.  Still sponge-like in his ability to absorb the value of his surrounding circumstance, Field took-in the magnitude of the day's affairs as they unfolded.  In doing so, he witnessed and learned from the intangible attributes displayed by his Coach throughout the round.  He saw a gentleman competitor try his hardest, who never gave up and who fought hard with every swing.  He saw a man face challenges with strength of character and fortitude.  He witnessed shot after shot struck with determination and grit.  As such, Chad's example served his grandfather's legacy through Ben's observation.  Generational pass-through was never so remarkable. 

After pulling his 6 iron approach wide left and into a greenside bunker at the 9th hole, Chad entered the sand needing to get up and down to maintain position within the match.  His opponent had 20 feet for birdie, and Chad's ball was precariously situated on a severe downslope in the bunker's back side.  The flag was tucked on the far right side, and the approach promised to bend 15 feet or more top to bottom.  Chad's three options were clear: blade it over the green and into a valley of doom, leave the shot in the bunker, or...hit it perfectly.  He opted for the third, and struck one of the finest shots of his (or perhaps any) lifetime.  The ball exited the bunker beautifully, landing twenty feet high of the flag and rolling to within four feet.  He would roll-in the subsequent par putt and half the hole accordingly.

However, a missed tap-in early in the closing side aided in pushing Chad to a two-shot down position as he faced the final three holes.  Undaunted, he actively chose to remain focused on the task at hand; and continued to give each shot his fullest intention.  In doing so, his par versus his opponent's bogey found him only 1 back after 16.  And after pitching to within 8 feet after sailing the green on the downhill par three 17th - he faced a par putt to pull all square following his opponent's miss for 3 from a similar distance.  The putt moved four inches left-to-right, and entered the cup after a pure stroke found it drift perfectly sideways into the hole.

And so it was that the two players stood on the 18th tee of the final day all square after 53 holes of stroke play competition.  Chad's drive would find the rough of the right side - his opponent's, that of the left.  The distance between their shots would remain nearly identical following both approach shots - as Chad's found the right greenside bunker while his competitor pulled his long and left.  Pitching to within 25 feet, his opponent was positioned for the bogey five he would subsequently record.  And as Chad Vaughn dug his feet into the bunker, alternating his gaze between his ball and the hole, waggling his wedge with conductor's rhythm, a gentle breeze rolled across the green and the sun shined bright in the blue sky.
 
Sand exploded from the bunker and the ball emerged...landing within 15 feet and rolling to 5.  Holding back the tears, Chad Vaughn rolled in the most meaningful putt of his life.

The caddy jumped.  The player wept.  And somewhere high above...the grandfather smiled.



2011 Season

Post-Season Quarterfinals
Boys' Latin vs Gilman
May 16, 2011

On the heels of completing their finest regular season A Conference showing, Boys' Latin (4-4) traveled to the Elkridge Club in order to face-off against the Greyhounds of Gilman (4-3-1) in the quarterfinal match of the conference's 4th & 5th ranked squads.  A grey sky and an ever-present threat of thunderstorms seemed like an old-hat backdrop for the teams, who had both navigated a season of mostly inclement weather en route to notching their respectable standings.  The day promised a tight contest - with both teams amassing similiar records, and a Greyhound home course advantage off-set by a regular season Laker victory on the same soil. 

Boys' Latin knew its mission and understood its purpose on the day.  The Lakers were reminded of how far thay had come in their development as competitors on the season - that they had learned the value of discipline, intention and integrity; the difference between playing to win and playing not to lose; the importance of playing their game their way rather than playing to their opponent; the power of peer affirmation, ownership of circumstance and purposeful engagement.  They stood before one another prior to the match's inception as an empowered unit of collective strength - a team that had developed together across a season's journey on and off the golf course.  Teammates.  Friends.  Lakers.

The day would find the two teams battling across the Elkridge linksland.  And while the matches would invariably tilt the way of the opposition, the Lakers stood firm in their resolve.  Never did they tire.  Never did they quit.  Shot after shot they executed with full focus and intention.  For this was not a team that rolled over - not a team that cried uncle.  That reality showed across the day's contests, with a few highlights worth noting:

Danny Murphy came to the tee box on the part three 4th hole one down to his Gilman counterpart.  When his opponent found the green's center, Murphy dug deep to produce his best swing of the match's front side: a pure 7 iron from 154 yards.  It sailed at the flagstick, never waivering from its intended target, and came to rest 20 feet short of the cup.  The Laker three man would make the putt for birdie and recapture an all-square position in the match's front side.  That would be one of two birdies that Murphy would record on the day in what was one of his finest competitive showings on the season.  Managing an ever-improving game that boasts increased yardage and an always deft short game, the Laker sophomore continues to shine as one of the most promising young players in the conference.

Ben Feild came to the final hole of the match's front side all square with his opponent - and continued in his resolve to give the day his absolute best effort, one shot at a time.  It was a resolution he would keep, and one that would produce a remarkable result on the hole.  Feild launched his tee shot on the unique downhill par four - which found the fairway in an upper-tier landing zone.  His approach shot was struck beautifully, rising to its crest before falling toward the hole.  The shot would come to rest within two feet of the flagstick, and Feild would make the subsequent putt for a birdie three - thereby winning the hole and the match's front side.  Feild, a Junior, first year starter, and team co-captain, battled tough throughout the day, and in doing so, reflected the on-course maturity of a seasoned veteran and squad leader.

And then, as has been said frequently over the course of recent history, there was Bennett Wisner.

In what may have been his most challenging contest to date, the Laker Freshman took on his top-ranked Gilman opponent.  The Greyhound had just won the MIAA Individual Championship, and stands to be named Player of the Year by the Conference before heading to High Point University in the Fall.  His on-course presence is sizable and brings to mind images of folklore.  He drives greens on par fours (something he did once in his match against Wisner, making eagle accordingly).  He makes putts from places where others would be satisfied with a successful lag.  He's gregarious and overly engaging - boisterous at times.  You'd expect him to be fifty feet tall, weild an axe and ride a big blue ox across the golf course.  Everything about the Gilman Senior is big and strong.  And this was his home turf.

The Greyhound took an early lead on the Laker Freshman, winning the first hole after blasting from the trees to within eight feet of the hole on the uphill par four - this in the face of Wisner's sailing of the green after splitting the fairway with his tee shot.  The Gilman starter continued to overpower the course with his length, and built a modest lead over Wisner in the process. 

It was a lead that would be short lived.

Bennett Wisner, dubbed "the piranha" by his coaches, refused to be intimidated by his opponent's presence.  He took ownership of his challenge, and executed his game plan according to his own strengths and design.  And, after going two down through five holes, he rallied to win the sixth with birdie in order to close the front side one-down.  This birdie would be one of three straight - and the beginning of a second-half rally that found the first-year Laker starter winning six consecutive holes against the Gilman colossus!  That's no typo.  Six consecutive holes.  And when the Greyhound's birdie putt came up a half rotation short on the final hole - his subsequent dropped jaw / tossed putter response said it all: Bennett Wisner had won the back side and halved the total match against the mighty Gilman giant.  In doing so, he affirmed his presence as promising rising star - one who marries talent with integrity, dynamic skill with strength of character.  It was a match for the ages.  And one that will be remembered for a long time.

Boys' Latin ends their season with over-arching accomplishment, satisfaction and hope.  They made it into the post season for the second consecutive year, compiling their finest-ever regular season record and over-turning two teams in the process whom they had never before beaten.  They boast the youngest team in the conference with all starters returning; and have the top-ranked Freshman (Wisner) in the MIAA.  They have three middle-schoolers moving up next year and multiple student-transfers in process.  The team's future continues to shine with promise and ongoing opportunities for growth and development.

2012, here we come.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 3  /  Gilman: 18


Boys' Latin vs Archbishop Spalding
May 12, 2011

Every now and then, while we're in the midst of hurried action, we're handed a brief, fleeting freeze-frame that brandishes itself into our memory with the magnitude of the circumstance.  Every so often, we get a spontaneous snapshot that strips the noise, leaving for our digestion the mere authenticity of the moment's substance.

Peering through the treeline of the regular season's final hole, on-lookers could make out the broad-shouldered silhouette of Henry Knott.  As the sun set behind him, casting dancing lines of light across his squinting stare, Knott alternated his attention between the ball and the target - blinked once, then drew his iron back into motion.  His follow-through was balanced.  His finish was held as the ball reached its apex.  That moment.  That snapshot.  Pure perfection...

The Lakers welcomed Archbishop Spalding to the Suburban Club for the season's final regular season match.  Boys' Latin had fallen to Calvert Hall the day prior; and having done so, moved into a position where a tie or an outright victory was necessary against Spalding in order to notch a berth into the post-season.  What's more, Spalding was in a similar position - needing a win against Boys' Latin in order to gain entry into the playoffs.  It was quite clearly a make or break match for both teams.

Boys' Latin had alternated losses and wins through the season - losing the first, winning the second, losing the third, winning the fourth, losing the fifth, winning the sixth.  Having lost the seventh, they hoped their trend of alternating outcomes would continue.  But they knew it wouldn't be easy.  Spalding had anchored excellent showings against teams that had handed significant losses to Boys' Latin.  What's more, they had streaky players - and an old team, made-up primarily of seniors with plenty of tournament experience.  And while the Lakers held the advantage of home course, it was difficult to shake the reminder that never in the school's history had Boys' Latin defeated Archbishop Spalding on the golf course.  Never.  Not once.

And so, the stage was set.  It was to be a nail-biting, barn-burner of a contest - one that would pit two hungry squads against each other in a match to decide the post-season fates of both teams. 

Bennett Wisner and Will Guy continued to anchor their growing reputation as the toughest one-two punch in the MIAA.  Knowing that they needed to secure as many points as possible from the available seven, the conference's top-ranked Freshman and the cool and collected team co-captain took to the task with full intention and clear purpose.  Guy took an early lead and held it throughout the day - sweeping his opponent of all three points.  Wisner, having battled to half the front side, dug deep to win the back and total matches.  Together, Wisner and Guy won the team point - and in doing so, took six and a half of seven possible points from their opposition.  A classic moment came in an exchange near the 6th green between a spectator and Coach Vaughn following Bennett Wisner's split of the match's front side.  Said the on-looker "Your #1 player looks a little red in the face.  A bit flush.  Is he alright?"  Said Coach Vaughn "That's what he looks like before a rally."  ...Wisner won four of the next five holes.

Partnered in the three and four slots, Danny Murphy and Dylan Watts were each celebrating their birthday.  Born on the same day, a year apart, the Sophomore and the Freshman spent their birthday afternoons in classic fashion - battling their Spalding opponents in a team-point tug-of-war that found the match going the full distance.  Having won the front side and total matches, Watts entered the second-to-last hole one-up on his opponent on the back side - and had combined with Murphy to boast a one-up position at the same point.  But when a chip came-up short and a subsequent putt didn't fall, Watts fell back to all-square heading into the final hole.  What's more, the team point was also all-square.  Standing on the final tee, Watts and Murphy knew the circumstance.  Win the hole and the overall match is halved - anchoring a playoff slot for Boys' Latin.  Anything less would result in no such guarantees, and possible a loss altogether.  With true balance and focus, the two players took to the final tee box.  Murphy played aggressively down the par five's left side.  Watts blasted his own drive down the fairway's center.  Murphy would pitch-out from a buried lie in the rough.  Watts would smash a fairway wood up the fairway's right side - setting up an approach shot that would find the green accordingly.  They would combine to split the team point - appropriate for fellow birthday-boy partners.  And Watts would drain his second putt for an outright victory.  As he lifted his ball from the cup and raised his glance to his teammates, Dylan Watts had a smile that out-shined the afternoon sun.

The match now at least halved, the Lakers turned their hopes to Juniors Ben Feild and Henry Knott for a much-needed half point that would anchor victory over Spalding.  Feild had fallen in the match's front side but stood on the second-to-last hole only one-down.  Knott had split the front side and stood on the same tee box two down on the back and total.  With only two holes remaining, Knott would need to win them both in order to earn the associated half points.  Feild launched his drive down the fairway's center.  Knott followed with a similar blast.  When their opponents found the left rough, it was apparent that the advantage might have turned in BL's favor.  Feild's opponent would find the right fringe with his second, however - and subsequently drain a twenty footer from off the green for birdie - a tough reality, given Feild's strong effort to rally into the close.  Feild had kept Knott in the game throughout the day, by assisting with alignment and leadership through affirmation.  And with his match over, the Junior Co-Captain took to the sidelines with the same sense of encouragement that had helped him support his teammate and friend throughout the afternoon.  "Come on, Henry!" he called.  "You've got this, bro!"

Knott's approach from the fairway came to rest in the back of the green's center.  His subsequent two-putt was good enough for the victory.  He would move to the final hole, one down with one to play - the weight of the over-all match's outcome riding on the broad shoulders of the first-year starter.

His swing from the tee box was pure.  His drive was pounded down the center - a moderately high trajectory that turned off its line ever so gently to fall left before rolling forward.  "Attaway Henry" his teammates shouted from the sidelines. "Great swing, Henry" they said.

His opponent over-cooked a hard-draw that caught the thick rough on the left side.  This would set-up a difficult recovery effort that invariably found the Spalding six man notching a bogey on the hole.

Sticking to his routine, Knott struck a fairway wood up the center. 

Then, the moment... 

Staring through the tree line, we saw it - the posing posture of a player tracking his shot as the ball rises into its arc.  Shadows fell across the fairway as his squinting stare followed the approach.  Turning our gaze away from the Laker anchor man, we saw the ball fall to the earth - coming to rest not next to the hole, but in thick rough, short and right of the green...

You may have thought the Laker Junior deserved better - that for all of his hard work and that of his peers, the ball should have found the green.  Well, it didn't.  And, as was said in the pre-match comments by the coaches, the only thing that each of the boys were entitled to was the opportunity to compete.  Henry knew that.  He accepted that.  He didn't make excuses.  He didn't look at the shot and kick the dirt - thinking that he was owed something or entitled to a better result.  He didn't blame mud on his ball or someone talking in his backswing.  He didn't tell himself he got a bad break or was unlucky.  Nope.  He just owned his circumstance.  He manned-up.  He took his position as his own - and resolved to do his best with what he had before him - an up and down attempt to win it all. And that, dear reader, is what it's all about.

And so it was that Henry Knott chipped from that thick greenside rough - his ball landing on the fringe before rolling to within inches of the hole.  And when he tapped-in for par, Henry had won the hole, halved his match, and secured an outright win for Boys' Latin.  It was a victory he will own for a lifetime.

Boys' Latin defeated Archbishop Spalding for the first time in school history.  In doing so, they secured a playoff berth with a 4-4 record in the regular season.  They enter the playoffs as the #5 seed - and it appears evident that they will face Gilman in the first round of the post-season.  Boys' Latin now boasts the youngest team in the conference, the most successful team in school history, the top-ranked freshman in the MIAA, and the momentum of champions as they head into the playoffs. 


Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 11.5  /  Archbishop Spalding: 9.5


   


Boys' Latin vs Calvert Hall
May 11, 2011

The Lakers hosted perennial conference contender, Calvert Hall at the Suburban Club in what would be the second-to-last home match for Boys' Latin this season.  Boasting a line-up of elder statesmen, three of whom are committed for college teams this Fall, Calvert Hall ranked third in the A Conference standings.  Nevertheless, believing that they needed one win from their final two matches in order to advance into the post-season, Boys' Latin took to the links with focus and determination.

Inspired by their recent victory over John Carroll and Bennett Wisner's fifth place finish in the Individual Championship, the Lakers announced their presence early with strong starts by Juniors Ben Feild and Will Guy, as well as Freshman, Wisner.  Each would win the final hole of the match's first half; and in doing so, notch much needed points for the Laker squad.  At the match's midway point, Boys' Latin trailed Calvert Hall by a mere point - and with momentum on their side, the Lakers focused on continuing their performance into the second half.  Guy lead the charge - winning the back and total matches against his opponent after winning the final hole on the front side to split the first half.  Following his initial lead was Feild, who also won the first half's last hole to split the front.  And Wisner won the front with a remarkable up-and-down on its last hole.  He would battle across the back side, taking his match the distance accordingly. 

But their Cardinal opponents would stage a rally of their own.  Birdie followed birdie across many of the six matches - a collective performance that would find Boys' Latin on the unfortunate side of a late-inning Calvert Hall surge.  But the Lakers never quit.  They never stopped moving forward.  In the face of ever-deepening challenge, they never gave in.  This refusal to yield was an inspiring reality for such a young squad.  Boys' Latin continued to show the manifest development of its on-course maturation.  Indeed, they've never been stronger and as they prepare to face-off against Archbishop Spalding in the season's final contest, they bring to the table their collective best - a good thing indeed, given the weight of purpose on the outcome.


Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 4  /  Calvert Hall: 17


Boys' Latin vs John Carroll
April 27, 2011

Boys' Latin played host to John Carroll in what was just the second home match for the Lakers in 2011.  After taking to the road for all but one contest, Boys' Latin was happy for the chance to hold a home course advantage.  Prior matches with John Carroll had proven to be perennial nail-biters - typically bearing with them the weight of post-season births and/or considerable pride.  Oftentimes the matches went the distance with the five and six men deciding the outcome on the last green.  Though weighty, the rivalry has always been friendly - a refreshing relality in light of the gravity aligned with the squads' competitive history.

A young team with seasoning talent, Boys' Latin had grown from each of the season's contests to-date.  With the sting of a loss to Loyola still turning their gut, the Lakers stoked their competitve fire with a renewed committment to on-course excellence.  Vowing to play to their own strengths, agreeing to affirm each other as teammates, anchoring a "see it, feel it, trust it" mantra within their pre-shot routine, and promising to focus on the substance of the challenge rather than the noise of the periphery, the Lakers took to the first tee with clear intention and purpose.

This vision would prove manifest in what would turn out to be their finest collective effort all season.

Hole after hole, shot after shot, Boys' Latin battled - each swing bringing crisp contact, each putt rolling true.  Divots flew and fists were pumped as the Laker squad managed their way around the first nine holes in near-unprecedented fashion.  Bennett Wisner hammered a 330 yard drive on the eighth hole.  Dylan Watts got up-and down from behind the fifth green after short-siding himself with an approach shot that sailed the flagstick.  Henry "Mudflap" Knott pitched over the ornamental treeline & landscaping - a blind shot if ever there was one - to within ten feet on the sixth hole.  Ben Feild laced his second shot on the par-four first hole to within fifteen inches, setting up a birdie at the opener.  Will Guy rolled-in putts like it was his job, marrying a balanced course management approach with a hot short game.  And Danny Murphy continued to add length to his tee shots - and blasted his way around the course with an ever-growing bomb-and-gouge mentality.

Across the first nine holes, Wisner would shoot 38; Guy, a 37; Murphy, a 39; Watts, a 43; Feild, a 43; and Knott, a 42.  Remarkable showings that would anchor an early victory in the front and total sides for the Lakers.  What's more, the hot trend would continue into the second half - and Boys' Latin secured victories in the back side and team points as well.  In fact, at day's end, all available points would be collected by the Lakers for their effort on the day - full sweeps in matches one through six - a rarity indeed, and one that reflected the A-games that were brought to the contest by the young Boys' Latin squad.

With another victory in-hand, the Lakers move back to .500 ball on the season for in-conference matches - placing them on the cusp of post-season qualification.  Winning one of the final two contests appears to be a must for the Lakers.  With Calvert Hall up next, followed by Archbishop Spalding, the order is quite tall - but it's an opportunity that Boys' Latin awaits with fervor and renewed strength of spirit.  

Something happened in this match.  Something clicked.  Potential was realized.  Promise fulfilled.  A tipping point?  A momentum shift?  A turning of the tide?  The answers appear promising.  And while the questions abound, one thing's for certain...it sure ain't boring.


Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 21  /  John Carroll: 0


Boys' Latin vs Loyola
April 13, 2011

Someone was whistling "On the Road Again" as the Lakers donned their raingear, packed their umbrellas, and prepared for their sixth away match in seven contests.  This time the opponent was Loyola and the venue was the rolling terrain of Hunt Valley Golf Club - an ultra hilly and relatively tight course nestled in the countryside of North Baltimore County.  Still riding high from their defeat of Gilman two days prior, the Lakers were excited for the opportunity to face Loyola - a team they had beaten the year prior in order to secure their first-ever A Conference playoff birth.  And, true to form, this contest carried comparable weight - as the two schools entered the day with similar records and near-identical showings against prior opponents.  And, while the opposition held the advantage of home course, the Lakers appeared primed for the opportunity for having played so many matches on the road thusfar.

A light mist blanketed the first tee as the twelve competitors struck their tee shots - the Lakers outdueling their counterparts with well-struck drives to prime locations.  This would prove relatively indicative of the quality of shot-making that was to come, as Boys' Latin continued to deliver in categories of ball-striking and total driving - but alas fell short in greenside execution and course management.  Against an opposing team that was more than reasonable tee-to-green and excellent on the dance floor, the Lakers fell victim to an unfortunate defeat.

Notable performances for Boys' Latin include Will Guy, who swept his opponent of all three points, and who combined with Bennett Wisner in collecting the coveted team point.  Guy's performance included a front nine score of thirty-nine that included a doubt-bogey at the eighth.  Guy continues to improve and develop as a competitor and a leader - and combines a characteristic balanced demeanor with considerable personal ambition.

Danny Murphy hung tight with his opponent and rallied late in the first half in order to win a point for the match's front side.  The Laker sophomore and second-year starter married a hot driver with an always-consistent short game to grind his way through a hard-fought afternoon.  Murphy would halve the total match and in doing so, collect one and a half points for his team.

Ben Feild, the Laker co-captain and first year starter, dug deep to win the match's second half after losing the front three-down.  The Junior maintains a significant level of self-accountability and was disappointed with his showing in the first half.  With three holes to play, Feild was one down on the match's second side - leaving him in a frame of mind which was no less worse.  Taking pause to regroup, Feild actively decided to rededicate himself to the final three holes.  Finding his focus and re-anchoring his determination, he fought his way to winning two of the remaining three.  In doing so, he won the back side and locked-in a well-deserved point for the team.

In golf as in life, one is either moving forward or moving backward.  There are no still waters.  The Lakers had a choice in the parking lot of Hunt Valley Golf Course - to either a) grow from the experience of the day's loss or b) worsen for having been defeated.  In accepting the reality of growth, they took pause to contemplate the difference between playing to win and playing to not lose, the impact of positive and negative self-talk, and the importance of teamwork between partners.  All three of these lessons were hard-learned that afternoon - but they are lessons that will stick with these Boys' Latin players for a long, long time.

Expect the Lakers to play to win in the time ahead.  John Carroll is up next.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin:  6.5  /  Loyola:  14.5


Boys' Latin vs Gilman
April 11, 2011

2007: Loss, 1 to 20.  2008: Loss, 6.5 to 14.5.  2009: Loss, 9.5 to 11.5.  2010: Loss, 9.5 to 11.5.

Those were the results of the last four contests between Boys' Latin and Gilman.  What's more, they were merely reflective of a broader history of Laker suffering at the hands of the conference stalwart.  Truth be told, across the storied history of both schools, Boys' Latin had never succeeded in toppling the mighty Gilman squad.  Not once.  Never.  Combine that reality with the fact that the Greyhounds were once again storming their way through the season in 2011, stir in a little home course advantage a la the Elkridge Club, and you've got a recipe for challenge.

The Lakers understood their position of David to Giman's Goliath.  They recognized the role of underdog that they were to assume.  And, they relished in the opportunity to dig deep within themselves in order to produce a best-efforts showing that would upset the MIAA behemoth.  It was an opportunity they would seize.

Under a full blue sky, both teams rolled putts as cherry blossoms fell across the practice green.  It was a welcome alternative to the sleet, freezing rain and even snow that had blanketed prior 2011 contests.  Indeed, as temperatures climbed into the 80s and the sun shown across the lush fairways of Elkridge, it appeared as though Spring had finally arrived in the MIAA.  

Will Guy, playing against his top-ranked Greyhound opponent, split the fairway with the day's first tee shot.  The Laker co-captain continued to play with characteristic strength anchored in a calm and balanced demeanor.  With wrap-around Oakleys and a hat pulled low, Guy plodded his way through an afternoon that required substantial resolve and determination.  Regularly, he was outdriven by considerable yardage.  On more than a few occasions, his opponent made putts of substantial length.  So to speak, it was Guy's willpower that was put to the test - his ability to play to his own strengths and execute on a gameplan that was constructed around his own ownership of the circumstance.  It was a test the Laker Junior would pass.  And though at day's end he fell victim to a full sweep by his opponent, Will Guy succeeded in navigating through challenge without abandoning his convictions.  There's everything in the world to be said for that.

Freshman Bennett Wisner faced-off against an opponent who finished 2010 as one of the MIAA's top three players.  A multi-sport athlete, the Greyhound star had a strong on-course presence and a formidable style that married a hit-it-hard mentality with deft greenside touch.  But Wisner, still charged-up from the momentum associated with his showing against McDonogh, was up to the challenge.  The first-year Laker starter relied on consistency of ball-striking and short-game excellence en route to winning the front, back and total matches accordingly.  What's more, the one-two punch of Wisner/Guy served up an essential team point victory for Boys' Latin.

Junior Henry Knott and Freshman Dylan Watts battled hard throughout the afternoon.  Watts birdied the first after hitting his approach to eight feet from the left-side trees.  And Knott dug deep to hit the final two greens in regulation and subsequently recorded pars - forcing his opponent to do the same in order to secure a one-up victory.  While neither notched points for Boys' Latin, these two Laker starters exemplified discipline and intention across the linksland - and took their opposition to the final green of the final hole.  There was no better illustration of their committment to strategic execution than the second to last hole of the match's front side.  Watts' opponent drove first on the two-hundred eight-two yard par four - smashing a driver that flew at the green's right side, found the fringe, and then trickled into the rough-line of a bordering bunker.  Undaunted by the magnitude of the shot, Watts pulled his five-iron and hit his tee shot to the fairway's center.  Playing next, the first-year Laker starter hit his ninety-yard approach shot to within eight feet - forcing his opponent to execute a difficult greenside shot.  Dylan had seized the momentum, captured it with his own gameplan, and reversed it to his benefit.  Both players would make par.  But Watts would walk to the next tee with the advantage.

When the chips are down, Danny Murphy and Ben Feild are at their best.  The Laker Sophomore and Junior seem to rise to the occasion when the pressure is on.  Both were disappointed in their recent performances against McDonogh; and both were resolved to delivering a hard-fought battle against Gilman.  Feild took an early lead against his opponent that would anchor a point for the Lakers; and Murphy hung tight with his opponent before taking a late lead to victory in the match's front side.  What's more, Murphy and Feild would combine excellence in total driving with greenside prowess in order to notch a much-needed team point, 2 & 1 over their Greyhound counterparts.  Thus, with the team point closed out and the second side and total matches still in-play, Feild and Murphy played the final hole with the hopes of collecting all possible points from the opposition.  While standing on the green, Feild noticed a rules infraction relating to the discussion of strategy by teammates after the team point had been concluded.  In that moment, the Boys' Latin co-captain had two choices:  1) to lose for enabling violation of the rules or 2) to win for enforcing the rules.  He chose the latter, and rightfully so.  At day's end, the resulting loss-of-hole penalties associated with the breach would be the deciding factor in the match.

For the Lakers, it was a hard-fought day of dogged determination, intentional course management, and disciplined strategy.  It was a day when their resolve and their convictions would be tested.  It was a day that challenged their strength and fortitude by imposing against them the threat of discomfort and intimidation.  It was a day they would face and a day they would own.  And at its conclusion, it was a day of victory for Boys' Latin.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 11  /  Gilman: 10

 
 

Boys' Latin vs McDonogh
April 6, 2011

The Lakers played host to 2010 MIAA A Conference Champions McDonogh in the season's home opener.  The sun was shining and spirits were high as a full gallery lined the first tee in advance of the match's inception.  Still riding high from their recent defeat of St. Paul's, Boys' Latin had made a committment to bring their best to the afternoon's competition.  It was a menatlity that would prove manifest throughout the ensuing battle - one that would find the Lakers going the distance against the conference heavyweight.

The first group could have very well filled a highlight reel themselves - as Will Guy and Bennett Wisner took leads early and never relinquished their grip on the competition. 

Guy, starting his first match of the season in the number one position, executed his on-course gameplan with balance and efficiency.  Always remaining true to his own game and its strengths, Guy delivered his finest performance of the season and delivered a full sweep of his top-ranked McDonogh opponent.

Wisner, still charged-up from his late-inning rally against St. Paul's, took to the task of anchoring his finest showing as a varsity starter.  Leveraging a bomb-and-gouge mentality, the Freshman remained focused and determined throughout the day - and when the dust settled, smiled for having collected two and a half points for his team - including a team point victory with partner, Guy.

With the first two players collecting six of a possible seven points, the remaining four Lakers needed only to win five of the remaining fourteen.  Alas, they could manage only a half point in aggregate.  Questionable course management and unfortunate short game woes kept the balance of the squad from capturing victory - and resulted in an unprecedented come-back victory for the opposition.

That having been said, when Stephen Sample stood on the second to last tee box - representing the final match of the contest - the four and a half points remaining on course between him and his teammates would have been enough for the Lakers to secure a win.  The match had, in fact, gone the distance; and was at day's end, a very close contest. 

While disappointed for the inability to seal victory from such close proximity, the Lakers were encouraged to have gone the distance against the 2010 Champions.  Spirits remain high as Boys' Latin faces top-ranked Gilman next with Loyola shortly thereafter.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 6.5  /  McDonogh: 14.5





Boys' Latin vs St. Paul's
March 30, 2011

Boys' Latin took to the road once again in the season's second contest - this time to face the Crusaders of St. Paul's at Baltimore Country Club.  Always an intense match-up, the competition held true to expectation - reflecting a rivalry that was nearly as bitter as the afternoon's weather.  Through the course of the match, the two sides battled snow, sleet and freezing rain as well as one another in what invariably proved to be an eventful and victorious showing for Boys' Latin.

St. Paul's has boasted some of the finest golf teams in MIAA history - at one point carrying a roster that found nine players finishing in the top ten of the individual championship.  Over the years, they have consistently proven themselves to be a formidable opponent and conference stalwart.  Overlay this with a long-standing posture of Laker/Crusader competition, and the result is a recipe for intensity. 

Boys' Latin had risen to overtake St. Paul's in each of the last two annual contests - but with four of six roster slots filled with fresh faces, it was a very different BL squad that took to the links in this year's match-up.  Nevertheless, they produced their best collective showing to date - and notched their first victory of the MIAA season, moving them back to .500 ball at 1-1 within the conference (2-1 overall).

Freshman Dylan Watts displayed the on-course maturity and balance of a competitor twice his age - and navigated his way around Baltimore Country Club with strategic intention.  Combining consistent ball-striking with a dramatically improved short game, the first-year starter collected all three points from his opponent and partnered with teammate Henry Knott to take a much-needed team point as well.  Watts continues to impress his teammates and coaches with his unique blend of style and substance - a true gentlemen competitor if ever there was one.

Junior Henry Knott, also a new addition to the team, took to the first tee ready to compete in his first-ever MIAA match.  And what was to come proved to be a reasonable foreshadowing of his afternoon's contest.  After hitting it in the trees, chipping out short, hitting over the green, and then in the water, Knott holed out from greenside to half the hole.  Watching Henry the remainder of the day proved to be no less eventful or exciting.  It was like watching Walter Hagen or Seve Ballesteros - one or two wayward shots would be followed by something miraculous.  Henry scrambled his way around the course and took his opponent the distance - garnering a well-deserved and much-needed half point for his efforts.  But the real take-away from witnessing Knott's effort was this:  he never, never, never gave up.  When he could have easily thrown in the towel for being in a position that was against the odds, he didn't.  When he was in dire straits where most competitors would have kicked the dirt and rolled over, Henry played on.  And...he succeeded.  His performance reflected the true grit of a hardened competitor and the pure heart of considerable integrity.  

Junior Ben Feild won his first eight holes....  No that's not a typo.  He won his first eight holes - and then noticed a rules infraction that helped his partner win the ninth.  No performance like that has ever been anchored by a Laker golfer.  Feild was dormie on the total match at the turn!  His opponent was no slouch, either - having put up a remarkable showing in his last contest against Gilman.  But Feild birdied the first and never looked back.  The Laker co-captain split fairways and hit greens in regulation all afternoon - and never slowed nor faltered in his quest toward victory.  At day's end, he had collected all three points and partnered with Sophomore Danny Murphy in halving a critical team point.  To say that Feild's performance was impressive is a massive understatement.

Speaking of understatement, soft-spoken but ever-firery Danny Murphy fought his way to collecting two and a half points of his own in the afternoon's contest.  Murphy, already a champion of the short game who rarely wastes an opportunity to get up & down from a greenside position, reached back for a few more yards in his long game and produced drives of up to twenty-yards past his seasonal average.  With a stiff upper lip and heavy steps, the second year starter battled back after losing the front side.  And, having fallen one down mid way through the second side, he found himself three down in the total match with only five holes to play.  Undaunted, Murphy dug deep...and proceeded to win four of those final five holes.  In doing so, he won points for the second half and the total match.  And then there was the putt... Murphy faced a twelve-foot, down-hill, curler on the final green to win the hole, split the team point, and win the entire match for Boys' Latin.  With nerves of steel and a heart of gold, he poured it into the center of the cup. Pumping his fist and smiling, Danny Murphy turned and faced his teammates' cheers.

Bennett Wisner came to the final two holes with a two-down position on the total match.  This was not too dissimilar to his position at Rolling Road, when he needed to win the last three holes to salvage a point against his Mt. St. Joe opponent.  And, as before, he succeeded.  Wisner dug within himself and blasted a gigantic drive on the next-to-last and subsequently won the hole.  Then, after his drive on the par five final hole found the hazard, he dropped accordingly and laid-up short to within one-hundred yards.  His opponent, having found a hazard of his own prior to chipping-out, also laid up short and was within similar distance.  Wisner played first and bunkered an open-faced wedge.  His opponent's approach landed short of the flag, spun back, rolled off the green, down a hill and into a hazard.  From there, the Crusader played from within the hazard and motivated the ball to within eight feet.  Wisner played from the bunker beautifully and blasted to within ten feet.  From the fairway, the coaches watched as Wisner examined and aligned the putt.  Freezing rain fell from the sky as the Laker Freshmen drew back his blade.  The putt started outside the cup as intended, then took the break...and disappeared into the bottom of the hole.  His opponent's putt would graze the edge, and fail to fall.  Bennett Wisner had won the hole and split the total match - anchoring an essential half point for what was then a hard-charging Laker squad.  In two straight matches, Wisner rallied from a deficit to overtake the odds - remarkable accomplishments for the first-year starter.

The story of the day may very well have been Junior Will Guy.  He was sick.  Very sick in fact.  Sniffling, sneezing and coughing, he had left practice the night prior and found himself with a deteriorating condition through the night.  Always the consummate teammate, he recognized his importance on the squad - and committed to doing his best to compete, given the weight of the match and its associated importance.  "Ill Will" as he was subsequently dubbed, downed some cold medication and took to the first tee with a determined look in the face of formidable odds.  They would be odds he would conquer.  Guy anchored his best performance of the year - and married an improved short game with increased consistency of ball-striking.  When miss-hits occurred, he would correct them with well-executed recovery shots.  Guy's performance reflected improved course management and a confidence anchored in maintaining full control of his circumstance.  After winning the final hole of the match's front side to halve the point, Guy never looked back and marched his way through the second half en route to winning the back and total points - as well as the team point with partner, Bennett Wisner.  And when it was said and done, Will Guy had battened the hatches, dug deep, and overtaken snow, sleet, freezing rain, a hard-charging opponent, and sickness - in winning nearly all possible points as the afternoon unfolded.  It was an amazing display of overcoming adversity in the face of substantial odds.  And as such, it was classic Will.  The kid never fails to impress.

Fresh off the victory against St. Paul's, Boys' Latin stands ready to face McDonogh next week in their season's home opener at the Suburban Club.


Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 14.5  /  St. Paul's: 6.5



Boys' Latin vs Mt. St. Joseph
March 24, 2011

Boys' Latin found themselves on the unfortunate side of a sizable upset for their first match of the 2011 season - but it wasn't an experience that came without some highlights and glowing indications of future achievement.

The Lakers traveled to Rolling Road Country Club to face-off against Mt. St. Joseph in what was the first contest for both squads this year.  With the one-two punch of piercing breezes and already low temperatures, the two teams battled it out across the rolling linksland engulfed in a wind chill of 37 degrees.  Rolling Road had yet to have been areified - and while standing water could still be seen in certain parts of the course, the green complexes were running as fast as if it had been mid June.

Mt. St. Joseph holds what is arguably the most significant home course advantage in its affiliation with Rolling Road.  The course, while remarkably short in length, twists and meanders through hills and valleys - serving up blind approaches and forcing precision in shot-workability throughout its design.  The opposition took full advantage of their familiarity with their home track, and navigated their way quite efficiently through an afternoon of harsh demands. 

For three of BL's six starters, this was their first MIAA match.  For one of them, it was his second in four years.  The team is quite young - and fresh in their journey as a team.  Their job in the day's circumstance was to learn individually and collectively - and to develop as players and as men as a result.  When they see Mt. St. Joseph again - perhaps in this year's post-season - they will be better prepared as a result, and ready for the opportunity to re-match. 

You might not have known it was near-freezing had you watched Junior Ben Feild's blazing hot performance at Rolling Road.  From the start, the team co-captain showed a firey desire to compete - and overlayed a grind-it out mentality with an efficiency of motion to battle his opponent successfully throughout the afternoon.  Feild's second shot on the par-four first hole - struck from behind a towering ash tree - landed in front of the cup and lipped out for eagle.  This proved to be a true warning shot across the bow of his opponent - as the Laker Junior hung tight to split the match's front side.  What's more, Field came into the final two holes needing to win each in order to half the back and total matches.  When a rules infraction cost his opponent the hole on the second-to-last, Feild captured the momentum he needed to take the reigns into the final hole.  And when he stood over a seven foot putt to win the hole accordingly, he sunk it without issue.  In doing so, Ben Feild, playing in his first competitive MIAA match, had won the final two holes in order to half his entire match against a strong opponent on a blistering March afternoon.

Also playing in his first MIAA match was Dylan Watts.  Watts, an engaging freshman with floppy hair and a contagious smile swings the club with a long and flowing motion - quite the contrast to his St. Joe opponent, who took quick, aggressive lashes at the ball and took on the course with a bomb and gouge mentality.  Undaunted by the absence of similarity, Watts remained true to himself and his game - never pretending to be someone he wasn't - and played his game his way.  In doing so, he hung tight with his opponent through the day and garnered a much-needed half point for the Laker squad.

And then there was Bennett Wisner.  The much-anticipated debut of the nationally-ranked freshman proved to be no-less exciting than one might have imagined.  In a rare showing of vulnerability, Wisner assumed an early deficit in his match - falling one down through the majority of the front side.  Then, on the first half's second to last hole, he rallied to win and pull to all square.  While it was a position he would release on the ensuing hole, it did foreshadow what was to come in act two.  The sweet-swinging Laker's challenges continued through the second side and it was evident to onlookers that he was disappointed in his position.  He arrived to the final three holes in a two down position - literally needing to win the final three holes in order to take the back side and split the total.  The team point with his partner, co-captain Will Guy, was closed out - which meant that Wisner was on his own with on-course decision making and shot guidance.  It was, quite simply, a mano-a-mano contest that had reached its critical stage.  Leaning on a new swing thought and words of encouragement from his coaches and teammates, Wisner dug deep and played his best golf of the afternoon - winning the third to last, then the second to last, and finally the very last - en route to an overly-dramatic back-side win and split point for the total match.  In doing so, Bennett Wisner was affirmed and enabled in what he is - a young man of considerable talent, strong character and sizable will.  It was a true and appropos highlight of his MIAA debut.

Junior Will Guy, Sophomore Danny Murphy, and Senior Stephen Sample fought admirably throughout the day - and while points were not garnered in doing so, they stood tall at day's end for putting up a best-efforts approach.  

The team, while young, is comprised of quality young men.  They reflect integrity, intention and discipline on and off the golf course - they compete with fervor and are gentlemen in doing so.  While the final score of this particular match may indeed be unfortunate - it remains quite evident that this Laker team is very, very special.  The future holds great things for these boys.  That is a near certainty.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 3.5  /  Mt. St. Joseph: 17.5 
  

   


Boys' Latin vs Saints Peter & Paul
March 7, 2011

In advance of the season's first official A Conference match, the Lakers traveled to Hunter's Oak Golf Club in Queenstown, Maryland for a pre-season face-off against 2010 B Conference Champions Saints Peter & Paul.  A formidable opponent, Peter & Paul boast what is arguably the greatest home course advantage in the MIAA - a links style layout with an endless sea of moguls, blind tee shots, hidden hazards and multi-tiered greens.  Overlayed with high winds, cold temperatures and wet conditions resulting from a prior night's rainstorm, the Lakers had the odds stacked against them heading into the contest.  What's more, the Lakers had gone eight years without a win or tie against Peter & Paul.

But, having completed a multi-week pre-season discipline of swing development, course management, strategy and rules education, Boys' Latin stood ready to face the challenge.  And do so they did, in classic fashion.

After a quick start the Lakers took an early lead over Peter & Paul.  However, Boys' Latin would struggle in the match's mid-way point - and in fact trail heading into the final three holes.  Undaunted, the Lakers staged an eleventh hour rally and took five of the final six points from their opponents - and in doing so, halved the total match.

Playing in his first match as a member of the Varsity Squad, Freshman Bennett Wisner combined excellence in ball striking with a dependable putting stroke in collecting two and a half points from his opponent.  Wisner partnered with Junior Will Guy in halving the team point for the match.

Junior Ben Feild, a newcomer to the squad in 2011, competing in his first outing collected two of three points from his opponent.  Feild remained level-headed and disciplined throughout the afternoon - and partnered with teammate Danny Murphy seamlessly.  Feild delivered excellence in total driving and executed effectively under pressure throughout the day.

Freshman Dylan Watts, yet another new addition to the squad, played brilliantly throughout the day - overlaying a smooth and balanced swing with a steady short game and a never-say-die attitude across the linksland of Hunter's Oak.  Watts battled his opponent with ferocity and, like his classmate Wisner, collected two and a half points on the day.

Watts partner for the day was Senior Stephen Sample - who scrambled his way to collecting two points via strong up-and-down attempts and short game prowess.  Sample and Watts combined to win the team point as well.

What's more, Junior Henry Knott and Freshman Connor Mules each won their respective matches in the seven and eight man slots.  Both were playing in their first-ever competitions as Laker golfers.  Both played remarkably well.  And each won three points accordingly.  In fact, Mules won every hole - that's right...every hole. 

Having faced a Championship Squad like Peter & Paul, at their home course, in the wind and the cold, and the slop - and having walked away with a come-from behind charge, the Lakers are off to a fast and encouraging start to the season.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin 10.5  /  Saints Peter & Paul 10.5

(Final Score Including Matches 7 & 8:  Boys' Latin 17.5  /  Saints Peter & Paul 10.5)



2010 Season

Playoffs! ~ Boys' Latin vs Calvert Hall
May 10, 2010

Their season-long efforts having earned them a spot in the A Conference playoffs, the Lakers hosted Calvert Hall at the Suburban Club in the quarter-final championship.  Two elements of the setting were unique.  First, was Boys' Latin's place in the playoffs - as the team had never before earned its way into the post-season.  Second, was the match's location - with Suburban having been anchored only after the higher-seeded Calvert Hall was unable to secure it's home course, The Country Club of Maryland.  So, with the benefit of home-course advantage and a fire in the belly born from a post-season position, the Lakers squared-off against a team that only two weeks prior had served them a 16-5 loss.  It was a challenge they were prepared to face.

The first tee told the tale of what was to come of the match's first half.  Laker drives consistently found the fairway and second shots the green; while Calvert Hall struggled to connect the dots across the linksland of BL's home turf.  At the turn, five of six Laker starters had halved or won the match's front side - yielding a halftime score of 4.5 to 1.5 in favor of Boys' Latin.  Calvert Hall had turned their games on soon-enough, though not in time to out-duel the Lakers' early-charge.  It certainly didn't take long for the gravel-in-the gut mentalities of all competitors to prove manifest.  Shot after shot was struck with steely precision from both sides - with outward expressions of elation and frustration following the swings and strokes of these gentlemen warriors.  Tension thickened as the match progressed - drawing and demanding heightened intention and focus from the players.  Such was the weight of the competition that following a rules dispute on the 4th hole, Sophomore and Laker top seed Will Guy quipped to Coach Champion "Man, the playoffs are no joke!" 

With a 3 point advantage, Boys' Latin headed to the match's second half with confidence and renewed spirit.  Nevertheless, Calvert Hall continued to battle - and clawed its way back from a deficit to square the match with three holes to play.  It was a momentum shift that would carry the Cardinals to an eventual victory - though not for an absence of remarkable play by the Lakers.  When faced with the challenge of winning the ninth hole to square his match, Will Guy proceeded to chip-in for eagle on the long par-five.  Addidional excellence in ball-striking and course management was anchored by Seniors AJ Billig, Ben Whitman, Matt Sherman and Sam Dunbar - as well as Freshman, Danny Murphy.  All Boys' Latin competitors, in fact, brought their best to the afternoon's contest.  Having missed a victory by a mere two shots, the Lakers had come remarkably close to toppling Calvert Hall.  And though at day's end, the Cardinals would advance, Boys' Latin had nonetheless fought hard and accordingly, nearly upset, their top-ranked challenger.

The 2010 Boys' Latin Golf Team had done what no other Laker Golf squad had done in years' prior - it had earned a place in the post-season.  A victory in and of itself, it ranks as one of the program's finest achievements.  Better still are the individual stories of the players on the season's roster - for not one of them had arrived with a scoring average within 15 shots of their current handicap.  It has been a story of development fueled by discipline, focus and intention - a journey wrought from integrity, and promise fulfilled on and off the golf course  It has been a step-by-step progression toward authentic self-realization - anchored through the vehicle of a royal and ancient game.  It has been the story of a mantra - better men through better golf - and it has been a blessing to witness. 

Final Score:  Boys' Latin 8.5  /  Calvert Hall 12.5

Boys' Latin vs Archbishop Spalding
May 4, 2010

In the final regular season match of 2010, the Lakers faced-off against Archbishop Spalding.  Having locked their playoff spot earlier with a victory over St. Paul's, Boys' Latin traveled to Chartwell Country Club enthusiastic about the upcoming opportunity to compete in the post-season.  In the interim, they were slated to take-on Spalding - a team of talented short game wizards whose line-up boasted the winner of the recently-contested MIAA Individual Stroke Play Championship.  Needless to say, the opposition was formidable; and the Lakers felt up to the task.

Sophomore Will Guy, fresh off his 5th place finish in the Individual Championship, faced-off against the tournament winner.  Guy's steady play was in-line with his cool and collected demeanor throughout the day - as the 36 he carded across the first nine holes indicated.  The Laker sophomore drained a six foot putt on the final hole of the match's front side to half the contest's first half.  And while he would fall short in garnering further points, he was more than pleased with his efforts on the day - having successfully negotiated the links at Chartwell with superior ball-striking and scoring average.

Senior Ben Whitman battled back from an early deficit and fought hard to half the match's second side.  Playing with an aggressive bomb and gouge mentality, Whitman stood fast in his take-no-prisioners mentality.  Fellow Senior Neill Peck shared a similar approach, and went the distance against his opposition.  Whitman and Peck combined to collect some valuable points for the Laker squad in the afternoon's contest.

But the day's most remarkable story belonged to Junior Stephen Sample.  A three-year veteran of the varsity squad, Sample was given the nod to compete in what would be his first-ever match.  It was an opportunity he embraced.  The lanky upperclassman, who also stars on the school's cross country team, stepped to the first tee with a look of fierce determination.  His drive was pounded down the fairway, splitting it perfectly after carrying a total distance of roughly 270 yards.  His next shot found the green, and the rookie starter two putted for par.  The next hole would find Sample draining a 35 foot putt for birdie in order to move to one under; and the third hole found him chipping-in after missing the green wide right.  Long story short, Stephen Sample, competing in his inaugural MIAA match, was one under through the first five holes, and finished the front side at even par - waging a 5-up deficit over his opponent at the turn.  His fine play would continue through the back side - and at day's end, Sample would collect half of the team's total points on his own.  It was nothing short of an amazing showing - and one that will be talked about for quite some time.

The Lakers completed the regular season with their match against Archbishop Spalding; and move into the MIAA A Conference Playoffs for the first time in the school's history.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin 5  /  Archbishop Spalding 16

Boys' Latin vs Calvert Hall
April 28, 2010

With the momentum of three straight victories propelling them, the Lakers traveled to The Country Club of Maryland to challenge conference heavyweight Calvert Hall.  In classic fashion, it was a match that would find the teams facing-off against mother nature as much as against each other.  With winds gusting throughout the afternoon and temperatures dipping well below seasonal averages, the two squads battled through inclement weather en route to a contest that would find Boys' Latin falling short of victory, though not for lack of effort.

Playing with grit and focus, freshman Danny Murphy collected half of the team's aggregate points - anchoring two and a half across the match's front back and total contests.  Murphy, newly-inserted in the line-up following a rest against St. Paul's, was firm in his discipline and steadfast in his intention throughout the afternoon.  As his development progresses, Murphy continues to prove himself as one of the conference's most dogged young talents.

Seniors Ben Whitman and Sammy Dunbar collected much-needed points in their competitions as well - with steady ball-striking and balanced course-management.  Both players are four-year veterans of the varsity squad, and are rounding out their high school experience with some of their finest showings yet.

While the afternoon produced a loss for the squad, sweet reward from their prior efforts was later anchored in the news that they had officially made the play-offs.  Following the conclusion of their match, the team recieved word that their record thusfar in the season had locked them into a play-off seed.  This being the first time the Lakers have ever reached the A Conference Playoffs, they celebrated with smiles and affirmation following the good news.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin 5  /  Calvert Hall 16


Boys' Latin vs St. Paul's
April 22, 2010

On the heels of their victory over John Carroll the day prior, Boys' Latin played host to conference rival St. Paul's in the final home match of the season.  In addition to being the season's last match at the Suburban Club, it was the last-ever home match for the team's six seniors.  A pre-match ceremony was held that found all seniors recognizing the efforts and support of their mothers.  With corsages worn proudly throughout the afternoon, these moms would witness their sons complete one of the most memorable matches on record for the Boys' Latin Golf Team.  For the final home contest was to be waged against the mighty St. Paul's - with not only pride on the line, but also the likelihood of a play-off birth.  Having never made the A Conference play-offs, and having beaten St. Paul's only once in seventy years, the Lakers knew quite well the magnitude of the opportunity that lay before them.

Ominous skies gathered above the Suburban Club linksland ahead of the match's inception.  Bags were packed with raingear and umbrellas were secured - with a foregone conclusion that inclement weather would once again be a factor.  And while such an assumption would eventually prove false, thunder was nonetheless delivered in the form of Ben Whitman.  Playing with ferocity and grit, the four-year veteran won the match's first five holes - en route to a formidable victory across the match's front side.  His would be a lead that would not be relinquished - and at day's end, Whitman had ended his home-course playing days collecting much-needed points against his opposition.

Partnered with Whitman was Sophomore Will Guy.  The peaceful and pleasant second-year starter birdied the first hole and never looked back.  Rolling his putts with new-found confidence, and striking his shots with laser-like accuracy, Guy stormed to a healthy lead that he too would fail to relinquish.  In doing so, the Laker's top seed garnered important points for the day's collective effort.

Seniors A.J. Billig and Matt Sherman partnered once again in classic fashion.  As a one-two-punch they were in perfect form -ham-and-egging their way to a team point victory.  Along the way, the always-quirky, ever-idiocyncratic Sherman and the hard-hitting, soft-handed Billig worked their way to full sweeps of their opposition - gathering seven points collectively.

The look in Drew White's eyes throughout the match was the distant gaze of an un-emotional competitive mercenary.  Rising to the occasion, White lept out of the gate quickly - and cruised to an early lead in his contest.  Marrying a solid putting stroke with the consistency of quality ball-striking, White was successful in his quest to amass some much needed points for the Lakers.

And then there was Sam Dunbar.  The four-year varsity team member, who for no less than thirty-nine matches had been the next man up - that is, the seventh man on a six man roster - had finally broken through and found his stride.  His timing could not have been better.  Playing with a calm yet confident demeanor, Dunbar rallied from a one-down deficit to split the match's front side.  Remaining balanced and staying within himself, he found his match going the distance - and when the contest concluded, stood proud for having won the second half and total matches.  Sam Dunbar, a four-year bridesmaid, had crawled his way into the line-up, competed with sheer determination, helped defeat the mighty St. Paul's, and in doing so, vaulted his team into play-off contention.

Standing on the tee box at the final hole, the coaches lifted their eyes to the horizon to see a rainbow.  The ominous skies had lifted and found replacement in purity.  As the final shots were struck across the fairways of the Suburban Club, it was all to easy to drift toward nostalgia - remembrance of seasons' worth of maturation and development.  Countless swings.  Countless putts.  Countless discussions about path, plane, break, wind, and strategy.  And through it all - woven between the fabric of game development - was the true growth realized...better men through better golf. 

And that's what it's all about.


Final Score:  Boys' Latin 17  / St. Paul's 4  

 






Boys' Latin vs John Carroll
April 21, 2010

Fresh-off their victory against conference stalwart Loyola, Boys' Latin faced-off against John Carroll in a competition contested across the links of Maryland Golf & Country Club.  It was the second time the Lakers took to the road in 2010 - having completed all but a solitary match at their home course thusfar.  The thirty-minute journey produced much discussion and strategy from teammates - with emphasis placed on intention and firm committment for the day's challenge.  It would be dialogue that would produce a fruitful gameplan - as the Lakers arrived to the course filled with competitive spirit and firm resolve.  It would be these intangibles that would serve them well throughout the day - not only in their battle against John Carroll, but against Mother Nature as well.  With temperatures falling rapidly from a day's high of 59, and with a constant rain falling, the match was to be fought on a field of murk and mire.

Fielding a line-up that included five seniors, the Lakers wasted no time in establishing an early lead.  Drew White and Sam Dunbar, playing in the five and six slots, were five-up and six-up following the match's front side.  White shot even par through the first half - and Dunbar wasn't far behind, wielding a controlled motion that found the four-year varsity member splitting fairways and hitting greens with remarkable consistency.  At day's end, White and Dunbar each collected two points, and partnered to win the team point for the Lakers.

Not to be out-done, A.J. Billig & Matt Sherman fought their way to a full sweep of their opposition - though not without challenge.  While each had won the match's front side, at the half-way point the partners trailed in the team competition.  Through the quirks of match-play, the team was actually behind while both singles matches were ahead.  This circumstance continued through the second to last hole - which found both singles matches completed for front, back and total points, but found the team competition all square.  Sherman and Billig would bear-down and win the next two holes - securing the vital point for the squad.

Ben Whitman and Will Guy plodded down the fairways of Maryland Golf & Country Club anchored in the day's tightest matches.  His eyes gazing out from beneath a bucket hat that dripped continuous beads of rain-water, Guy plodded his way through the linksland with heavy steps of intention.  With tee-side pacing and a raised-shoulder, head-down gate, Whitman worked with the ongoing weight of a burdened man.  But both would fight - and fight hard - to secure their points for the afternoon.  Guy would win the front half, and Whitman the back side.  They served each other as partners and aided one another with shot execution and on-course strategy.  Theirs has been a pairing to remember for two years running, and the one-two punch of Whitman/Guy once again proved to be delivered with strength.

At the close of the match, Boys' Latin had secured their second-straight victory - defeating John Carroll 14-7 at Maryland Golf & Country Club.  The team exchanged stories of their rounds that evening over sandwiches at a local restaurant.  Laughing to himself and nodding his head after a bite, Matt Sherman turned to his teammates and said "The food sure tastes better after a win."

His fellow teammates smiled.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin 14  /  John Carroll 7

Boys' Latin vs Loyola
April 12, 2010

In their fourth match of the season, Boys' Latin hosted conference stalwart Loyola in a contest across the links at the Suburban Club.  Following a tough loss after a close match against Gilman, the Lakers stood revitalized in their collective efforts to produce their first victory since defeating Chapel Gate in a pre-season scrimmage. 

Once again, the competition would go the distance - and find Boys' Latin grinding out a hard-fought win.  It was the first time the Lakers had upset the Dons since joining the A Conference seven years ago.  A sweet victory for Boys' Latin, their win against Loyola found the team in receipt of a significant vote of confidence and much needed affirmation in their quest to progress through the conference rankings.

Playing with remarkable poise and balance, senior Ben Whitman battled through his contest and collected three points against his opponent.  Whitman's ball-striking continues to improve, and his on-course presence is as strong as its ever been in his four years as a squad member.  Whitman stands ready for the upcoming Individual Championship, and eager to continue his stride as one of the A Conference's most elite competitors.

Fellow Senior Matt Sherman also swept his opponent - collecting points for the match's front, back and total matches.  Sherman combined precision with diligence and produced his finest showing of the season.  The team's most calculating member, Sherman competed with his classic idiosyncratic mannerisms.  And at day's end, the points collected through his showing went far in securing the squad's victory.

Freshman Danny Murphy collected two and a half points competing in the roster's number four slot.  Murphy continued to marry dogged discipline with firey mentality, and bested his opponent handily.  His performance thusfar in 2010 is reminiscent of last season's showing by fellow Shadow Program graduate Will Guy.  Murphy's introduction to competition this season has been seamless and his performance thusfar has been nothing short of remarkable.

Senior AJ Billig collected vital points for the squad as well.  Playing with steady resolve and intention, Billig executed his gameplan efficiently throughout the day.  Billig's ball-striking continues to improve and his short game remains steady; and as the season progresses, he continues to affirm his position as one of the conference's stand-out seniors.

Senior Drew White and Sophomore Will Guy fought hard in their efforts against their opposition.  Playing hurt, Guy battled an injured wrist throughout the day - but never waivered in his focus or resolve.  And White, after struggling through the match's front half, dug deep to split the back-side.  In refusing to give up, White was able to battle for a much-needed half point - one that would effectively secure a Laker victory in the day's contest.

The Lakers stand ready for continued competition and are renewed in spirit for their victory against conferene rival, Loyola. 

Final Score:  Boys' Latin 12  /  Loyola 9


Boys' Latin vs Gilman
April 8, 2010

Following two disheartening early-season losses, the Boys' Latin logged extra practice time in advance of the team's face-off against red-hot Gilman.  Gilman, ever a conference favorite, had anchored two victories and a tie in the season's first three contests, and arrived at The Suburban Club determined to extend their fortuitous stretch of on-course brilliance.

It was a contest that would go the distance - and find the Lakers in receit of defeat by a narrow margin.  Boys' Latin trailed by only a point after the match's front side, and fought hard throughout the back half to rally into the close.

Drew White, after suffering a sizable defeat on the first half, dug deep to tie the second side.  White, who had made the line-up via play-off the day prior, scrambled his way around the golf course - and combined grit with grace to produce a much-needed half point.

Having earned his way into the line-up's fifth slot, Freshman Danny Murphy collected two and a half points in his contest - besting his opponent in the back and total matches, while combining with White to secure the Team point.  Murphy continues to demonstrate excellence and is rapidly becoming recognized as one of the MIAA's top Freshman starters.  Murphy's clutch play was demonstrated yet again on the final hole.  On a green surrounded by on-lookers, Murphy faced and subsequently made an 18 foot par putt to win his match.  A knowing smile and a slight pump of the fist reflected the quiet confidence of the team's fastest rising star. 

Senior Ben Whitman played very well throughout the match's front side - and collected a quick point in the number one slot to put the Lakers on the board early.  Whitman partnered with Will Guy to collect the team point as well.  A four-year starter and team leader, Whitman exemplifies the consummate competitor.  Firey, dedicated, poised and balanced, his presence continues to impress on and off the golf course.

Sophomore Will Guy won the match's front, back and total contests - as well as the team point with partner Whitman - and in doing so, vaulted the Lakers into contention in the day's competition.  The 2009 All-Conference team member reinforced his position as one of the top competitors in the MIAA - and played brilliantly throughout the afternoon.  

At day's end, Boys' Latin would suffer defeat at the hands of Gilman - though not without a valiant showing.  The Lakers are encouraged by the progression evident in their play; and look forward to challenging Loyola in the season's next match.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin 9.5  /  Gilman 11.5

Boys' Latin vs McDonogh
March 31, 2010

The Lakers traveled to Woodholme Country Club to challenge conference stalwart McDonogh in the season's second contest.  Having been washed-out earlier in the week at the hands of sizable rainfall, team members were more than welcoming of the sixty-five degree temperatures and sunny skies.

Less than welcoming were the on-course struggles of the BL squad during the match's front side.  Plagued by short game woes and weak ball-striking, the Lakers fell to their competition in four of six matches in the competition's first half.  However, Boys' Latin did not waver from its intention - and team members fought hard to rally from their position of deficit.  And at day's end, the squad would go the distance against McDonogh, albeit in an effort that would variable fall short.  Nonetheless, the team left the course encouraged for their fortitude and stronger in their intention.  They saw of themselves the inability to accept defeat and the willingness to continue in combat regardless of dire straits.  That's what separates this Laker squad from others of season's past - its collective posture of dogged discipline.  Mental strength manifest in a step-by-step march of progress.

AJ Billig executed well-struck shots and balanced course management in his effort against the McDonogh three-seed.  The Laker senior was balanced in his approach and calculating in his course management.  Partnering with fellow classmate, Matt Sherman, AJ blended crisp shot execution with effective competitive dicipline in a fasion reserved for consummate competitiors.  His effort was well done and his presence valued by his teammates.

Sophomore Will Guy continued his brilliant play and swept his opponent of all three points.  Guy's cool and collected demeanor and skilled shot-making served him well throughout the competition.  A 2009 All-Conference Selection, Guy once again reinforced his position as one of the MIAA's top talents.

Having fallen in his bid to win the match's front side, Freshman and first-year starter Danny Murphy refused to lay down in defeat.  Battling back with unparalleled rigor, Murphy took his match to the final hole - a par five of sizable length.  A spit-fire pop-gun cut from the mold of the great Paul Runyan, Murphy failed to absorb his lack of distance as a disadvantage.  Pounding his drive and second shots up the fairway and his third onto the green, he stood over a birdie putt as his competitor found himself faced with bunkered green-side challenge.  When the dust settled, Murphy's subsequent par would be more than enough for victory - and the full point collected on the match's back side would reflect the six-man's fortitude and focus.


Strong efforts were logged by Neill Peck, Ben Whitman and Matt Sherman - all falling short in their bids to collect points, but not without producing strong attempts at success.  At day's end, the team holds true to a best-efforts policy - and the Lakers succeeded in trying their hardest.  For that, no apologies or regrets will be uttered.  For that, they remain true champions.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin 6.5  /  McDonogh  14.5


Boys' Latin vs Mount St. Joseph
March 24, 2010

Boys' Latin squared-off against Mount St. Joseph in a season-opener that framed-up as a classic re-match of the prior season's final match.  Fresh-off their victory against Chapelgate, the Lakers arrived to the course anchored in good spirits and firm intentions.  And with Mother Nature offering a day of sun and blue skies, the stage was set for a memorable day on the links.

Excellent showings were notched by the team's top seeds - with Ben Whitman and Will Guy collecting the lion's share of the Lakers points.  With a steely resolve and a balanced motion, Whitman produced one of his finest showings in quite some time - and combined with the quietly confident Guy for valuable victories in the one and two slots.

After halving the match's front side, Senior Neill Peck stood on the second-to-last hole and was confronted by Coach Champion with a very specific challenge.  "We need you here, Neill" he was told.  "We need you to win these last two holes.  Nodding with affirmation, the team captain said cooly "Got it, Coach."  Peck then delivered a monsterous drive - measuring nearly three-hundred yards, that split the fairway with piercing accuracy.  He followed that shot with an approach that came to rest within ten feet of the hole, and his subsequent par found him moving to a one-up position in the match.  He would play the final hole just as brilliantly, save a slight putting miss-cue.  But in those two holes, the 2010 Team Leader came to understand something about himself - that when the chips are down and he's faced with a challenge, he is a man who is up to the task.  And that, at the end of the day, is a vote of confidence that will follow Neill Peck beyond the golf course.

To that end, Freshman starter and Laker six-man Danny Murphy came into the final hole believing he was facing a must-win circumstance.  The scrappy spit-fire anchor-man found himself facing a seven-footer for the win.  Flanked on all sides by a sizable gallery, Murphy poured the putt into the hole's center.  Again, when faced with a must-execute circumstance, this Laker closed the deal.  For a freshman to realize such a moment is remarkably impacting and valuable.  The team could not be more enthusiastic or proud of their newest starter.

Two practice sessions separate the Lakers from their match against perennial conference contender, St. Paul's.  The team plans to make the most of their time in preparation - and remain committed to their goals and objectives this season.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin 7  /  Mount. St. Joseph  14   



Boys' Latin vs Chapelgate
March 23, 2010

In advance of the season's first official match, Boys' Latin welcomed 2009 B Conference Champions Chapelgate to the Suburban Club for a competitive scrimmage.  Having gone 14-0 in the season prior, Chapelgate was a formidable opponent for the Laker squad.  And as the threat of rain overlayed with falling temperatures, Boys' Latin quickly realized that they were competiting against Mother Nature as well as the battle-tested Chapelgate squad.

The Lakers would struggle in the match's front half, but produced a late front-side rally that found them splitting the points with their competition.  At the turn, the match was all square - with both teams holding three points.

Then the Lakers staged their turn-around.

Neill Peck, who had struggled sizably through the front side, fought back to win the back half and secured a much-needed point.  AJ Billig, who had also fallen on the front, stood firm in his resolve and won the back side and total match.  And Ben Whitman, who had been unable to secure a point in the first half of the match, played well into the close and collected points for the second half and total match.

Drew White earned two and a half points - winning the front side and total match while also combining with his partner, Danny Murphy, in winning the team point.  Murphy, to his credit, swept his opponent and won three and a half points in his first match as a Laker Freshman.  Also operating with a broom was Will Guy, who completed a full sweep of his competition in winning the front, back and total matches.

The Lakers' victory against Chapelgate was one that was anchored in a rally fueled by discipline and focus.  In failing to roll-over, Boys' Latin stood with firm resolve in their challenge against a team that had not lost a match in fifteen attempts.  In the end, the Lakers prevailed, having risen to the challenge effectively. 

The team appears strong for the season ahead; and is anxiously anticipating the season-opener against Mount St. Joseph.

Final Score:  Boys Latin 14  /  Chapelgate 7

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Boys' Latin vs Mount Saint Joseph
May 7, 2009

Boys' Latin played host to 5th-ranked Mt. St. Joseph - and in a contest that would be their last of the season, the Lakers gave their all against the purple-and-black clad Gaels.

Determined to offer their best against St. Joe, the Laker squad rallied from an early deficit to close the first half within a split point of their opposition.

Junior Ben Whitman won the front side one-up; and in bursting from his late-season slump fired one-over-par on the day en route to collecting two-and-a-half points in his match.

Whitman's fellow teammates A.J. Billig and Drew White served-up two remarkable come-from-behind efforts. 

Billig had been one down with three holes to play before digging deep to notch wins in two of the final three holes.  His up and down for the win on the forth hole combined with an approach shot that stopped a foot from the hole for birdie on the fifth.  Billig would par the final hole and win his front side one-up. 

White also found himself behind in the count.  Sitting two down with two to play, White re-focused and won the final two holes - a rally punctuated by a 35 foot par putt that fell on the final hole and halved the match's front side.

Not to be outdone, Junior Neill Peck grinded through a tough front-side loss to split his match's back half.  Fully committed and focused, Peck plodded his way through the afternoon and when the final putt fell on the last green, he had fully earned his split point.

The Lakers stood a half point behind their competition heading into the second side.  The close race lit a fire under their competition however, and the Gaels surged into the close.  Boys' Latin refused to fade, however - and stood firm, shot for shot, with Mount Saint Joseph well into the final holes.  At day's end though, it would indeed be a well-earned victory for the opposition.

The Lakers end their season with a record of five and seven; which ties them for the final slot in the MIAA Playoffs with Saints Peter & Paul.  Guidelines for tie-breakers state that the head-to-head results dictate who advances.  Unfortunatley for Boys' Latin, that gives the nod to Peter & Paul - given the squad's upset of the Lakers on May 1st.

The Lakers close the books on the 2009 MIAA Golf Season with their best record since joining the ranks of the A Conference; and countless memories of good times and great golf to propell them into the time ahead.

Everyone returns in 2010 - a reality about which the team and its coaches are quite enthusiastic. 

Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 4.5  /  Mount Saint Joseph:  16.5


Boys' Latin vs McDonogh
May 6, 2009

The Lakers traveled to Woodholme Country Club to face-off against 4th-ranked McDonogh.  In an afternoon that produced continued cloud-cover and rain-fall, Boys' Latin battled a tough opponent on one of the conference's most challenging golf courses.

Woodholme combines classic styling with dramatic slopes and angles.  Always in pristine condition, the course boasts quick greens and well-manicured fairways.

Having returned to the line-up, Junior Ben Whitman made an admirable charge in his match.  Winning the front side and total match, he collected the only full points for the Lakers.  Whitman's partner, Will Guy, halved the match's back side and in doing so split his point accordingly.

The remainder of the Laker squad were unable to gather any additional points and found themselves swept by the 8-1 McDonogh squad.  Unable to conjure their A-games for the remainder of the afternoon, Boys' Latin team members failed to rally into the close as has been their trademark in 2009.  One notable exception however, was Junior Neill Peck - who, after struggling early, failed to record anything greater than a bogey for the remainder of his match. 

The Lakers move to 4-6 with their loss to McDonogh; and following a post-match team discussion in the bus that evening, remain hungry and ready for the remaining matches.

 

Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 2.5  /  McDonogh:  18.5


Boys' Latin vs Loyola
May 5, 2009

Clouds blanketed the afternoon sky as Boys' Latin welcomed Loyola for the ninth match of the season.  Loyola, fresh off a strong showing in the Individual Championship, entered the day with a strong position in the conference standings and a hunger to expand on their already impressive 8-2 record.  The Lakers, 4-4 on the season, held home course advantage as well as a firm intention to give their all against the conference stalwart.

Sidelined with a one-game suspension for unbecoming conduct, Ben Whitman took to the sidelines for the match's duration.  As per conference guidelines, his slot was filled by moving all players beneath him upward in the roster and inserting a new player in the #6 spot.  That player was Sam Dunbar; and as next-man-up, the Laker Junior seized the opportunity to showcase an excellent day of ball-striking.

Via the new line-up, players found themselves with fresh pairings and partnerships.  A.J. Billig moved into the #2 slot and paired with Will Guy for the afternoon's contest.  Billig's traditional partner, Matt Sherman, paired with Drew White; and Neill Peck partnered with Sam Dunbar.

Sherman's front side would find the Laker Team Captain collecting the only full point for Boys' Latin.  His one-up victory was sealed on the half's final hole when his tee shot on the par three found the green's center.  Sherman maintained his poise throughout the day and battled to the end against his opponent.

 

Will Guy, the calm and collected Laker Freshman, was pitted against a firey and long-hitting opponent whose over-all game and demeanor bore resemblance to that of Sergio Garcia - powerful, aggressive, and outwardly expressive.  Guy would lose the first four holes to his opponent - and invariably the match's front side - before being reminded that it was his own game that should receive his attention.  Newly focused and determined, Guy battled back and won four of the next six holes - eventually pulling even with his competitor.  And when his birdie putt fell from 45 feet on the final hole, Will Guy had matched his opponent for the match's second side.  It was a rally for all rallies - and one that was anchored in personal triumph for having remained true to one's self.

Drew White, the human highlight reel, produced two of the season's finest shots.  The Laker Junior nearly holed out on the 4th hole - his shot from 96 yards coming to rest within two feet of the hole.  And again at the 11th hole, his approach shot from 156 yards landed and stopped no more than one foot from the cup.  Near hole-outs and aces are becoming commonplace for the Laker known as "Kong" - and White continues to stand as one of the more explosive, and therefore exciting players on the Boys' Latin squad.

As the clouds turned dark and the rain drops began to fall, one Laker after another staged a rally into the match's close.  Heavy steps were forged through Suburban's fairways as each Boys' Latin teammate wiped the water from their hats and plodded through the swampy linksland - refusing in their own dogged resolve to give anything other than their absolute best.  Shot after shot, putt after putt, they made their move and staged their rally.  In the end, they would fall short of securing a win - but victory was theirs nonetheless for having stood tall in the face of challenge and adversity.  Their collective integrity and their contagious passion for excellence continues to produce memorable moments, critical developments, and most of all, strong individual character.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 1.5  /  Loyola: 19.5


Boys' Latin vs Saints Peter & Paul
May 1, 2009

With the momentum of their victory against John Carroll propelling them, The Lakers traveled to Maryland' Eastern Shote to tackle Hunter's Oak Golf Club and take on Saints Peter & Paul.

Struggling through most of the '09 season, Peter & Paul found themselves two slots lower in conference ranking than the Lakers.  At 2 & 7, they were under-dogs to the Lakers' 4-3 record and eight seed standing.  Nonetheless, Peter & Paul were known to be tough and to have sizable talent.  Compounded with the reality that Hunter's Oak is one of the more unique layouts in the conference, and the Boys' Latin team knew that it had its hands full if it were to extend its winning streak.

Hunter's Oak is designed as an authentic Scottish Highland course - rolling fairways fall against a backdrop of moguls and tall grass.  Directional stakes are placed throughout the course - not only to point golfers in the proper direction, but to keep them on the hole being played.  Greens can be wide at the base and narrow in the neck.  Blind tee shots can be followed by blind approaches.  Hazards can be unapparent from one angle and every-present from another.  To say that Peter & Paul have the most sizable home-course advantage in the conference would be a remarkable understatement.

The Eastern Shore squad would leverage that advantage and hold the Lakers at a deficit throughout the day.  With rallying calls positioned and best-efforts anchored, the Lakers did their best to crawl back into contention - highlighted by Matt Sherman's holed shot for eagle from 130 yards on the par-five ninth hole.  Sherman's short iron carried a water hazard, cleared a bunker and landed on the green's front edge before releasing toward the hole and disappearing into the cup.  Sherman raised his hands in victory and the applause that followed resonated across the groups ahead of and behind the Laker Team Captain.  Sherman's rally found him splitting the full match - and in doing so he collected half points for the front, back and total matches.

Will Guy extended his excellent play, once again in the number one slot for Boys' Latin.  The freshman once again fought his way through a round against the conference's stiffest competition and swept his opponent for the match's front, back and total points.

After halving the front side, Junior Neill Peck won the back and total sides for the Lakers.  The first-year team member continued to impress via excellent ball-striking and short-game prowess.

Though the rally call was fierce, the Lakers' hard-fought efforts would fall short against Peter & Paul.  At day's end, they had been upset - and the long faces that were worn on the players' faces reflected the afternoon's disappointment.

But in the loss, the Team learned that the truest victory resides in giving one's all.  If at the end of the day, a win was not secured from one's best efforts - no real loss was realized.  The Lakers remained proud for having given their all - and continue to afix their sights on the matches to come.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 8.5  /  Saints Peter & Paul:  12.5

 

Boys Latin vs John Carroll
April 29, 2009

The Lakers traveled to Bel Air, Maryland to face-off against John Carroll in what proved to be a barn-burner of a competition across the venerable links of Maryland Golf & Country Club.

The past few years have found John Carroll realizing a similar rise toward prominence as Boys' Latin.  Seasons ago, it sat on the unfortunate end of regular lop-sided scoring; but through discipline and focus, John Carroll has constructed a more than respectable squad of competitors.  Firey and hungry to taste victory, John Carroll rarely comes out of the corner without swinging.  And in it's match against Boys' Latin, the hit-em-early & hit-em-hard strategy looked poised to pay-off.

The Lakers fell victim to an early deficit against John Carroll.  Through the first half of the match's front side, Boys' Latin was behind in most matches.  However the Lakers, who are now known for their late-inning rallies, staged a fierce rebound in four of six matches in order to split the contest's front half. 

The momentum of that rally would fade however, and Boys' Latin would drift into yet another deficit into the match's second side.  But true to form, mentalities were refocused and sights transfixed on the task at hand - and the Lakers once again overcame their shortfall by charging into the match's close.

Will Guy continued his fine play - this time in the team's number one position - and swept his opponent three ways, while combining to win the team point with partner, Ben Whitman.  Whitman, facing a challenging day of ball-striking, would dig deep and work his way to notching a half point for splitting his match's second half.

Matt Sherman and Drew White collected two and a half points between them after grinding their way through challenging back-and-forth standings against their opponents.  White nearly aced the par three third hole - his shot skimming the cup's edge before coming to rest eight inches away.  Sherman paired with partner AJ Billig and collected a much-needed team point at day's end.

Billig came into the final hole needing a three on the mid-length par three.  The Laker Junior launched an iron shot that never left the line of the flag - and came to rest fifteen feet away.  Cheers were heard from his teammates - and the ensuing par that Billig would record secured a guaranteed halve for the total match.

Then it was up to the final match on the course.  Junior Neill Peck would face the same par three in need of a win to secure the Team's victory.  Knowing what was at stake, Peck remained true to his routine - and struck a mid-iron shot that bored a hole through the humidity and the moment's pressure, before finding the center of the green and the flagstick twenty-five feet away.  After his opponent's shot failed to find the green, Peck calmly rolled his putt toward victory - and notched a much-needed win for his Team in doing so.

At day's end, the Lakers overcame multiple deficits and pressure-laden situations in order to topple John Carroll and record their season's fourth win.  In doing so they learned lessons of patience, focus and teamwork - and positioned themselves well for the days ahead.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin:  11.5  /  John Carroll:  9.5 

Boys' Latin vs Archbishop Spalding
April 24, 2009

Winston Churchill once wrote "Courage is going from failure to failure without losing enthusiasm."  A more applicable statement could not be found to describe the Boys' Latin Golf Team at their finest.  When the tide rips them against the rocks, they often pry themselves away and forge on against the current.  When knocked down by a heavy blow, they typically dig deep to rise again.  When told they can't, they frequently do anyway.

Against Archbishop Spalding at Chartwell Golf & Country Club however, the frequent fight that had been the rally call of the Lakers this season failed to materialize.

An equal match on paper, Spalding and Boys' Latin had similar statistical records and players of equal scoring averages.  The Lakers had momentum on their side, having won their prior three consecutive matches and Spalding had home course advantage - a benefit that aided in squaring the intangibles prior to the match's inception.  Boys' Latin knew that a victory was both possible and necessary in order to continue their success; and arrived prepared to face the Spalding squad.

Fully assembled, Archbishop Spalding represents the consummate squad of spit-fire grinders.  Rarely motivating drives a sizable distance, and frequently facing long iron shots into relatively short holes, they leave an early impression of lacking strength for their loss of size.  But as one learns rather quickly, such an impression would be equally false and foolish.  Each Spalding starter waives the wand of short game wizardry.  With chipping and putting as their allies, the squad members anchor pars with seemingly effortless ease - and in doing so, more than offset their lack of distance from the teeing ground.  In the mind of many golfers, and certainly those of the teenage competitor, there is rarely anything more frustrating.  Falling to Spalding is like dying of a thousand cuts - a slow bleed to an ultimate death born from the sword of an every-steady short game.

The Lakers produced their weakest greeside showing of the season - and as bladed bump-and-runs mixed with sailed greens and random three-putts, Boys' Latin found itself mired in a deficit from which they would not rally.  Spalding's lead was established on the first hole and would not be relinquished, nor challenged throughout the day.  With heads hung low and shoulders heavy with the world's weight, the Lakers found themselves at a psychological disadvantage with each up-and-down recovery executed by their opponent.

Periodic exceptions did present themselves, and are worthy of note.

Junior Matt Sherman, whether facing a putt for birdie of a chip for triple bogey, demonstrated his fullest intention for the shot's purpose.  Though Sherman would fall to his opponent on all fronts, his efforts were his best and his never-say-die mentality was never shaken. 

Freshman Will Guy, continuing in his rookie-of-the-year performance, halved the match's front side before notching victory for the second half and total.  Guy's two-and-a-half points would be the lion's share of the Lakers' total for the day.  Guy's peaceful on-course presence and firm determination continues to serve as a positive example for his teammates.

Junior AJ Billig collected a half point in splitting the match's back side with his opponent.  This shared-point was produced after a strong run into the finish for Billig, who had otherwise fallen short in his bid to out-duel his scrambling counterpart for the front side and total.

It is worth noting that though their showing against Archbishop Spalding was easily their weakest of the season, the Lakers competed as gentlemen.  No expletives were uttered.  No clubs were tossed.  No tantrums were displayed.  Frustration was contained and respect was extended.  In the ever-firey world of adolescent competition, the Lakers stand as gentlemen.

At day's end, the coaches challenged their team's on-course attitude of self-doubt and angst.  They reminded the players of their ability to rally and the strength in their collective identity.  They talked of mentality, courage and fortitude.  They explained the need for dogged discipline - and placed before team members the evidence of short game's importance, as displayed by the day's competition

The team absorbed the day's lessons; and stands ready for the time ahead.  Newly humbled and once again hungy, they once again wear expressions of gentlemen warriors.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 3  /  Archbishop Spalding:  18


Boys' Latin vs Annapolis Arean Christian School
April 21, 2009

Boys' Latin hosted Annapolis Area Christian School at The Suburban Club for the fifth match of the season - and though weather patterns reflected sizable changes, transitioning from first tee warmth and sunshine to thunderstorms by day's end, the Lakers offered up remarkable consistency of ball-striking and course management. 

Propelled by the momentum of consecutive victories against St. Mary's and St. Paul's, the Lakers faced off against relative conference newcomer, AACS.  A second-year A-Conference squad, AACS had won the B-Conference Championship two seasons ago before moving up to the higher bracket.  AACS knew how to win, and had done so previously.  Though the Lakers had notched victory against them last season, Boys' Latin maintained a "never underestimate your opponent" mentality heading into the competition.

That thought process proved valuable for Boys' Latin.  Focused and determined, they plodded their way across the links of Suburban once again - playing with dogged intention and precision.  All shots were thought-out before executed.  All efforts were fully-fueled with purpose.  And at day's end, the Lakers had secured their third straight victory - rising to a record of 3-2 while moving up the conference standings with a sizable 20-1 defeat of Annapolis Area Christian School.

Stories of the day belonged to Juniors Drew White and A.J. Billig. 

White, a first-year team member and competitive golfer for all of 60 days, played the match's front half in no more than two over par - including a birdie at the par four fifth hole.  The Laker known as "Kong", who held a scoring average of one-hundred upon joining the Team in March, played his way around in single-digit handicap fashion; and in doing so, handily defeated his opponent for a full sweep of the match's front, back and total points. 

Billig, struggling early with his driver, was eight over par through the first five holes.  Then, after reaching for hybrids and three woods for most of the remaining tee shots, he played the rest of the round in one under par.  Highlights of the round include two birdies, including one on the final hole that secured victory against his opponent.  As well, Billig made par on the challenging ninth hole, a long par five.  After pull-hooking his drive into the trees, he was forced to pitch to the fairway and leave himself with two hundred thirty yards to the green.  The resulting shot was struck perfectly, and not only found the green, but came to rest fifteen feet from the hole.  It was a putt Billig would make - en route to collecting a full three points from his opponent.

Not to be outdone, Juniors Matt Sherman and Ben Whitman, as well as Freshman WIll Guy continued their excellent play and managed full sweeps of their opponents - winning the front, back and total matches as well as team points.  Entering the final hole of the match's front side, Whitman and Guy each near-perfect shots into the par three's well-guarded green.  Guy's would come to rest three feet from the hole; Whitman's no more than six feet.  Each would go on to close out their opponents early.  Sherman, a Junior and the 2009 Team Captain, continued to wield a hot putter - and made lengthy putts throughout the day in his collection of points.

After a one-down loss on the front side, Junior Neill Peck once again found himself re-focused and determined for the second half.  Never one to back down, Peck staged one of his now famous rallies and turned his match around entirely.  In winning the back side and total match, Peck notched two points - both coming in the final minutes as thunderstorms announced their presence as clearly as did the Laker Iceman.  Peck's brillance in the second half was highlighted by consistency.  Well-executed shot-making and methodical course management surrounded his come-from-behind victory; and further secured the first-year starter's reputation as the consumate grinder.

With three-straight victories now fueling their competitive fire, The Lakers remains intent on offering their best efforts and fullest intention in the time ahead.  The days to come and the matches that remain continue to offer great promise for the gentlemen warriors of Boys' Latin.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 20  /  Annapolis Area Christian School: 1



Boys' Latin vs St. Paul's
April 17, 2009

The Lakers traveled to Baltimore Country Club and faced-off against the Crusaders of The St. Paul's School in what certainly proved to be one of the most memorable matches of all time for the Boys' Latin Team.  St. Paul's has long been the legacy squad of the conference, standing as the MIAA equivalent of the New York Yankees - an established team with a storied history and a vast trophy case.  They have long been a perennial playoff contender and many years ago anchored their reputation as the venerable and consumate powerhouse team of the league.

The Lakers, fresh off their win against St. Mary's, knew they would need ever bit of their newly-anchored momentum to carry them through the day.  After falling to St. Paul's every year since joining the A Conference, and after collecting no more than seven points against them in any of the last five years, the Lakers had little leverage from their past showings against the stalwart Crusader line-up. 

But they did have heart.  And they did have discipline.  And they did have a never-say-die attitude that failed to let them accept defeat after completing the match's first half trailing their conference rival.  And when the dust settled on the match's back side, Boys' Latin had completed one of the most remarkable turn-arounds in snatching victory from the hands of their opponent.

Junior and top-ranked Laker Ben Whitman lost the first four holes en route to an early defeat against his St. Paul's opponent.  Whitman had snapped his driver with the force of his downswing on the eleventh hole against St. Mary's the day prior; and entered the St. Paul's match with a fresh big stick which failed to suit his game as well as his now severed old faithful.  After regrouping on the first hole of the second side, Whitman put away the new driver, opting to negotiate the remainder of the course with his three wood - and in doing so, played his way back into contention - winning the match's back half for a much-needed point.  Whitman's rally aided in securing the team point with partner Will Guy.

Guy, a Freshman and first-year starter, continued his point-gathering mission - and swept his opponent after playing the front side at even par.  With his victory, Guy managed to notch eleven and a half of twelve possible points thus far this season - sweeping his high-ranking opponents at Gilman, St. Mary's and St. Paul's.  Only Calvert Hall had been able to steal a half point from the fast-rising star of the Laker squad.  Nothing similar to Guy's rapid start has yet been seen at Boys' Latin - let alone against as strong of an opening schedule as the Lakers have seen this season.  Against St. Paul's, Guy was once again at-peace with himself, his game, his strengths and his disciplines.  Peering through his wrap-around Oakley sunglasses and walking the fairways with a heavy stride, the Freshman exhibits a quiet strength rarely identified with a first-year starter.  And on this day, as on the others that preceeded it, he leveraged that strength to vault the Lakers toward victory.

Junior A.J. Billig held a one-up lead heading into the final hole of the match's front side; but a wayward approach and a misguided lag putt betrayed his intention of securing a full point.  Nonetheless, Billig's split point on the match's front side was enough to keep the Lakers within striking distance on the match's second half.  Billig paired with fellow Junior and Team Captain Matt Sherman in winning the team point two-and-one - and in anchoring another clutch point for the rallying squad.

Sherman, continuing in his overly-analytical methodology of shot-making and course-management, staged one of the day's finest performances.  Finding fairway after fairway and green after green, Sherman married tee-to-green consistency with a newly-hot putter en route to his finest competitive showing to-date as a Laker.  His front nine score of thirty-nine tied his lowest ever - and went in the Laker Golf record books as the lowest score for a number-four ranked starter.  Sherman, the Team Captain, was praised by his teammate Billig throughout and after the match.  "He's the perfect captain, and the best teammate I could imagine," Billig said. "He keeps me focused and energized, and he hits amazing shots."  Billig no doubt speaks for the entire Laker squad with comments such as those.  Sherman won the match's front side two-up and went on to expand his lead in the second half.  At day's end, he had collected a full three points for his efforts.

After making par at the first, Junior Neill Peck's consistent ball-striking and greenside touch deserted him for the front half.  Falling two-down to his opponent by the turn, Peck was frustrated for the realities of his standing.  Undaunted however, Peck dug deep - unwilling to accept defeat without a fight - and grinded his way through the second half.  With new-found focus and dogged determination, Peck won the first hole of the back side, then the second, then the fourth after losing the third.  He entered the second-to-last-hole two-up on the back side and all square on the over-all match.  "Iceman" had officially plowed his way back into contention - and the reigns that were firmly in his grasp would not be released.  He would go on to win both the back and total matches, after an amazing showing on the final hole - a long par five guarded by water, sand and trees.  Peck's drive split the fairway and after a recovery from a miss-hit approach sailed the green, the first-year squad member found himself facing a down-hill pitch shot from the tall grass to a green guarded long by a water hazard.  With steely determination, Peck played an explosion shot that a hoisted a mass of dirt and dormant grass as well as the golf ball - in execution of a perfect shot that landed on the fringe before rolling to within fifteen feet of the cup.  Neil Peck, the Iceman, had successfully rallied from a two-down position to win the back and total points for the Lakers.

Peck's partner, Drew White, also faced tough times on the front side - falling four-down to a Crusader with a soft driver and a hot putter.  It was a classic clash of styles.  The long-hitting Laker, dubbed "Kong" for his burly on-course mannerisms, bombed drives that at times flew ninety yards past his opponent.  Nevertheless, the first year Laker learned that length was secondary to scoring - and watched his opponent negotiate hole after hole by bunting drives, motivating approah shots to the fringe, and two-putting for par.  White's approaches were less consistent and his putter less efficient - and in expressing discouragement to his teammate Peck was over-hear to have said "This guy is driving me crazy.  I hit it a mile past him and he still beats me."  Always a quick study, White digested the lesson and dedicated his efforts on the match's second half to effective course management.  Opting for three wood rather than driver, White increased his fairways hit; and selecting punch shots rather than full swings for approaches, he improved his greens in regulation.  His putter stable and his confidence restored, White too found himself rallying into the match's close.  In doing so, Drew White did the unthinkable - he transformed a four-down deficit into an all-square match, with a one-up lead on the back side heading into the final hole.  And the completion of that hole once again found "Kong" with a lower score than his opponent - the long-hitting bomber turned thinking-man's shotmaker had won the back side and total matches - the final points that would secure his team's victory for the day.

Boys' Latin had, for the first time ever, defeated the mighty St. Paul's.  It was a win that was celebrated in the bus ride home - and one that will not dout be remembered and discussed for years to come.  The victory marked a milestone for the Laker Golf Team - an accomplishment that was anchored in discipline, integrity and intention.  The gentlemen warriors of Boys' Latin had achieved for their efforts - though, as they were well aware, the truest achievement was in the effort itself.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 12.5  /  St. Paul's: 8.5
    


Boys' Latin vs. St. Mary's
April 16, 2009

Following two days where rain washed-out scheduled matches against Archbishop Curley and St. Paul's, the Lakers were hungry for competition when Mother Nature finally offered-up a day of sun and reasonable temperatures.  Boys' Latin hosted St. Mary's at The Suburban Club for their third match of the season - and as members of the Laker squad stood on the first tee, it was evident in their eyes that they were ready for a spirited day on the links. 

Coaches had counseled players regarding their hunger for competition - reminding them that unlike other sports, golf did not permit them to take the fire in their belly and the anxious nature of their excitability and vent it by physically tackling their opponent.  Instead, they had to breathe through the anticipation - remaining balanced and utilizing their ferver to fuel clear, concise, thought and action.

Nonetheless, the foaming-at-the-mouth mentality led four of six Lakers to miss-hit their tee shots on the first hole - with only Drew White and Will Guy finding the fairway.  Regardless, all players scrambled to record respectable scores on the hole - including A.J. Billig, who after hitting a provisional ball from the tee after believing his first had soared out of bounds, found his initial ball and negotiated the remainder of the hole efficiently en route to a remarkable par.

The Lakers won the match's front side handily - notching four and a half points to St. Mary's one and a half.  However, the relatively lop-sided score was not without drama, as the majority of the points collected came from one-up victories secured on the front half's final hole.  Many players entered the par three with either a one-up lead or an all-square match; and one by one, the Lakers anchored their individual points through solid execution of high-quality golf shots.

The match's second half would remain close throughout the competition as well.  Junior Ben Whitman and Freshman Will Guy locked horns with two challenging St. Mary's opponents, both freshmen.  Whitman's opponent drained a 40 foot birdie putt on the second hole, and failed to retreat in his putting prowess throughout the day - making putts of 20, 10 and 15 feet in the final three holes.  Wide-eyed, but undaunted, Whitman secured a point against his opponent on the front side.  The back side however, would find the Laker in receipt of an unfortunate reality.  Standing on the second to last hole, Whitman was all square in his match.  As he drew his club into his back-swing and begin his forceful transition to forward-swing, the torque from Whitman's motion snapped the club's shaft in half.  As the clubhead and half of its shaft flew down the rough-line, his drive, partially struck by the broken club, skidded into the swampy tree line of the hole's right side.  Whitman would find his ball (and the clubhead), but given the nature of his lie and surroundings could negotiate no better than bogey - a score one stroke higher than his opponent.  That one-down posture would follow the Laker through the final hole, and close out the #1 seed on the match's back side and total.  Nevertheless, Whitman was told to stand proud for his efforts - and fail to let the unfortunate break get under his skin.

Freshman Will Guy won the final hole of the match's front side en route to a half point; then won the final two holes of the back side in order to split the second half and total match points.  Other than those holes, Guy had trailed his opponent all afternoon - but in classic fashion, dug deep when it mattered in order to rally down the stretch and secure much-needed points.  The Laker Freshman maintained his season points leader status in collecting one and a half for the Lakers against St. Mary's.

Junior A.J. Billig married a hot-and-cold driver with an steady putter en route to collecting three and a half points against his opponent.  The match went the distance, and found Billig facing a seven foot par putt at the last for the win.  It was a putt he would make, and in doing so, record his second full sweep of the season.  In addition to the aforementioned rally on the first hole, Billig scramled when necessary throughout the afternoon - a frustrating reality for any opponent.  Billig's ability to bounce-back after miss-hits is reflectively of a maturation process associated with his one-course development - and a welcome reality for the Laker three-man. 

Fellow Junior Matt Sherman took the lead early in his match and held it througout the day - utilizing classic "Shermanesque" scrambling to amaze and frustrate his opponent.  Topped drives were followed by pure fairway woods and perfect pitches to within ten feet.  Bladed chips were followed by drained putts of length.  Coaches commented that Sherman may have been channeling the spirit of the late Mark Fidyrich, as they watched the Laker Team Captain go through his unique rituals and calculations throughout the match.  Whatever the methodology's purpose, it worked - and Sherman built on his early lead to win the match's front, back and total points.  It was Sherman's first sweep of the '09 season.

Junior Neill Peck got off to a bumpy start, yielding a point to his opponent on the match's front side.  A refocused and determined Peck took to the first tee of the second side, and in playing to his strengths went on to notch victory in the back and total matches.  "Iceman" as he is known by his coaches for his expressionless manner, found himself in a few unfortunate lies throughout the day - including a greenside position that rested against a tree, and atop a greenside bunker in a shallow divot.  Creative as he is unwavering, Peck managed to motivate the ball away from the tree and near the fringe and utilized his driver to chip the ball from the bunker's top side (motivating it to within ten feet from the hole).  The first-year starter's game is showing sizable growth; and the matches to come promise continued development from one of the team's rising stars.

Not to be outdone, Junior Drew White recorded his first full sweep of the season, and his competitive golf career.  The burly Laker bomber rocked drive after drive in excess of two hundred eighty yards - and combined his length with increasingly more mature course management.  Though a shaky putter would haunt him periodically through the match, White's length aided in off-setting any greenside weakness.  "Kong" as he is known throughout the team ranks, won the first four holes in his match in notching the front side point; however a rallying opponent took him the distance in the second half.  But the first-year Laker starter remained anchored in his game plan, and won the back side two-and-one, nevertheless.  

At day's end, the Lakers defeated St. Mary's for their first win of the season - and in doing so, fanned the flames of competitiveness inherent to their season-long journey.  With many more matches yet to be played, Boys' Latin appears well-positioned for the time ahead.

Final Score:   Boys' Latin: 15.5  /  St. Mary's: 5.5


Boys’ Latin vs. Calvert Hall 
March 31, 2009 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Boys’ Latin hosted 2008 Conference Champions Calvert Hall at The Suburban Club for the Lakers second match of the season.  Fresh off their narrow loss to stalwart Gilman, the maroon army once again faced a tough battle against what the coaches referred to after the match as “the most impressive collection of opposing team talent seen in years.” 

It was an interesting day for the Lakers – and one that would prove to offer insight in retrospect for the Boys’ Latin squad.  Early in the match, team members found themselves offering less than their best performance against their opposition – and at the conclusion of the match’s front side, the team was down 5-1 against The Cardinals.  Heads were hung in disappointment and dirt was kicked in frustration as shot after shot fell short in meeting the increasingly higher standards of team members.  Even as affirmation was offered by spectators and coaches, the Lakers seemed to be off – not as much in ball-striking, but rather in mentality and attitude. 

The lone stand-out of the match’s front side was A.J. Billig.  The Junior, playing in the roster’s third slot, secured up-and-down attempts multiple times – including two for victories – en route to notching a win on the match’s first half.  Billig had missed the green wide-right on the front side’s final hole (a par three); and was assumingly jailed behind a steep bunker that guarded a flag tucked narrowly behind its upper ledge.  Undaunted, Billig executed a remarkable pitch shot that came to rest twelve feet from the hole.  It was a putt he would make for a par – and in doing so, won the front side handily. 

As each group turned to face the match’s second half, Coach Champion met with players individually during periods of green-to-tee counsel.  Encouragement was offered; and motivation was anchored through words of insight regarding each player’s attempts in facing the oft-intimidating Cardinal squad.   

One such discussion took place between the Head Coach and Team Captain Matt Sherman. Sherman had taken a one down position against a smooth-swinging Calvert Hall competitor in the number-four slot.  A scrappy grinder if ever there were one, the Laker Junior had a style and presence that flew counter to his opposition’s – and seemed to be bumping against a glass ceiling in his attempts to outduel the Cardinal.  Between the eighth green and the ninth tee, Sherman paused to meet with his Head Coach – at which time he was told “Sherm, this guy you’re playing – he’s a good kid; he hits a lot of nice shots…and his swing is a lot prettier than yours.”  Sherman, who had been looking at the ground, raised his head with a knowing smile as his eyes met his Coach’s.  “But you know as well as I do, that you’re just as good of a player.  You have to play your game…not his.  Believe in your swing…not his.  You’re good enough.  I know it and you know it.  You’ve got four holes left.  Now go get ‘em.”

With a grin and a nod, Matt Sherman took to the ninth tee box; and with his own distinctive swing – one that marries a loopy path with well-conducted tempo – smashed his best drive of the day down the par five’s fairway.  Two holes later, when he next met with his Coach…he was one up.  It was a lead he would expand on, and in doing so notch two points for winning his match’s second half and total.  His was a comeback anchored in a deeper lesson – an understanding that he is at his best when he is himself – and one that will be remembered in the time ahead as an indelible manifest of confidence restored. 

But Sherman’s was only one of the afternoon’s turn-arounds.  Juniors Ben Whitman, Drew White and Neil Peck all shook off the ill-temper of front side losses – and at the feet of their Coach’s engagement, laid to rest the notion that they would fall short in challenging their opponents for the remainder of the day.   

“Drew, you seem to be hitting a cut today; am I correct?” Coach Champion said, approaching the burly, hard swinging, team rookie. “Yes, sir.  Shots keep moving to the right,” he responded, shaking his head in frustration for his inability to combat a stubbornly open clubface. “Here’s a thought big man…play it!” the head coach responded with a firm whisper and wide-eyed stare.  “Play the cut.  You know you’re going to hit it.  It’s dependable.  Don’t fight it.  Play it.  That’s your game.  Don’t try to play a game that’s not yours.  Aim left and play the cut.  Now go get ‘em.”  “His own eyes widening with understanding, and an a-ha look about his face, the Laker Linkster know as “Kong” responded with a firm nod and walked to the tee box.  His drive, like all ones prior, was hit hard…up the fairway’s left side, and cut beautifully across the short grass before falling to rest in its center.  In that moment, Drew White learned that the only thing that rivals the beauty of a well-executed cut shot is the power in understanding one’s own relative strengths. 

For the second match in a row, Junior Ben Whitman faced-off against one of the conference’s top ranked individual competitors.  Calvert Hall’s top seed is regularly referred to as the heir-apparent to the MIAA’s throne of achievement.  And rightfully so.  The Cardinal Sophomore is young, strong and has a motion that moves the hearts of on-lookers by striking a rare combination of inspiration and fear.  The power inherent to his well-paced but nonetheless fierce swing at times prompts sympathy for the golf ball – with a belief that even an inanimate object isn’t free from feeling the pain of such brute force.  

And Whitman, recognizing the weight of burden inherent to facing such an opponent – found himself outside of his normal pace and timing.  The Laker’s gaze darted and his teeth grinded through a front half that found him falling short of victory.  Shaking off his Coach’s instruction to slow the pace of his motion in order to improve tempo and therefore ball-striking, a confused Head Coach stepped aside in a rare moment of quasi player-dissension.  Then, in returning to his top player’s side, said “Whitty, no man is an island.  You’re not out here by yourself.  I’ve helped bring you from 92 to 72 and I can help bring you back into this match.  But only if you listen to me.”  The player nodded, leaning on his driver and looking at the ground.  “Now when I tell you to make a deliberate practice swing, I want you to make a deliberate practice swing.  Understand?” Again, the player nodded, this time confirming verbally “I understand.”  “Good.  Now watch your pace; take a slow practice swing; know that you’re not out here by yourself; and go get ‘em.” 

In the four remaining holes, the top seed’s practice swings moved at the pace of a snail with some time on its hands – and the Laker’s resulting shots were his finest of the day.  In classic fashion Ben Whitman went on to tame the beast and won his match’s second half - his resulting rally notching another point for the rebounding Laker squad.  What’s more, another player, this one a team veteran, came to recall the substance associated with an age-old adage noting the absence of an “I” in “Team.” 

No stranger himself to a hanging head, Junior and team rookie, Neil Peck kicked the dirt (and sand) more times that he would have preferred during his match’s front side.  The normally level-headed Peck, who had fired a personal-best forty-two on the front nine in his prior competitive outing, was visually frustrated after multiple shots failed to meet his own expectations.  Prior to the second-half’s inception, the normally-reserved Peck approached Coach Champion and sighed when asked how he was doing “Not playing too well today, Coach” he said, while lifting his bag to his shoulders.  “Look Neil, two things” Coach responded “One: You’re good enough.  You’re an excellent player and a solid ball-striker.  That’s a fact.” Peck raised his brow as he paused and looked at his Coach. “Two: Have you ever played Poker?”  “Sure,” the Laker responded. “Well, have you ever bluffed?” Coach asked. “Yea…” Peck responded, the brow now lowered and eyebrows closer together. “Well that’s what you have to do when you hit a bad shot.  You have to bluff.  Don’t let your opponent know that you didn’t like your shot.  And certainly don’t let them know that you’re frustrated.  Their resulting thought process will go something like this ‘I don’t have to beat this guy.  He’s doing just fine beating himself.’”  Don’t let ‘em see you sweat, Neil.  Because you and I both know that your level-headed composure is an asset that cannot be wasted.  Keep your cool – good shot or bad.  Stay strong and focus on the shot at hand.  Now go get ‘em.” 

Neil Peck plodded through the remainder of the round with a sharp focus and a shot-response discipline that was devoid of emotion.  Coaches observed his opponent periodically turn his attention to the reaction of the Laker when, periodically, a miss-hit had assumingly been struck.  But that was all the opponent would receive – an assumption – as no affirmation was offered by the re-focused Laker that the shot he had hit was anything short of what was intended.  The Iceman had cometh – and his name was Neil Peck. 

Freshman Will Guy continued his success in the roster’s second slot – but only after turning-around his showing against his Calvert Hall opponent.  After recording the finest first-match effort in Laker Golf history, the cool and collected Guy fell victim to his Cardinal opposition on the match’s first half.  Undaunted and inspired to step-up his game, Guy lowered the bill of his hat and gazed down the fairway of the hole before him – staunch in his determination and firm in his purpose.  In maintaining a dependable tee-to-green strategy and wielding a newly-hot putter, Guy motivated himself through a come-from-behind barn-storming session that found him getting up-and-down on the final hole in securing victories for the match’s second side and total.  Guy played with a peace about him and a quiet but firm confidence that the coaches consider remarkable given his limited tenure and freshman standing.  Such attributes are reflections of an on-course maturation that is as impressive as the shots it produces. 

At day’s end, the Lakers rallied to win the second half of the match – though given their rough start to the day, fell short in their final scoring efforts against top-ranked Calvert Hall.  However, many lessons were learned and many developments fulfilled for the squad – the fruit of which will prove manifest in the days and weeks ahead.   

Final Score:   Boys’ Latin: 6.5  /  Calvert Hall: 14.5

Boys’ Latin vs. Gilman

March 26, 2009

 

Having been handed a tough schedule for the opening matches of the season, Boys’ Latin faced-off against top-ranked Gilman in the year’s first match.  The Lakers had fallen to Gilman 14.5 to 6.5 in 2008 and were handed a 20 to 1 loss in 2007.  Standing just as strong in 2009 as they had been in years past, Gilman was once again considered an early-season top-seed and conference favorite.

 

To say that the weather was challenging would be a true understatement.  Rain had fallen throughout the day and continued through match-time.  Temperatures peaked at 45 degrees and had dropped into the upper 30s by late afternoon.  It was cold, wet, and miserable…But the Lakers were ready.

 

Rain Gear was donned, umbrellas were opened, winter hats were pulled low, and determination was present in the eyes of squad members.  Boys' Latin had experience playing and practicing in poor weather.  They had gear to protect them from the elements.  They knew the course, and they knew themselves.  They were hungry to compete and were ready to give their all.  And do so they did, in classic fashion.

 

With Brenden Schwartz removed from the line-up, Boys’ Latin repositioned their squad to offset the loss of the Team’s #2 player.  Players 3-6 were moved-up in the roster, and a qualifier was held Wednesday in order to see who would round-out the day’s line-up .

 

When the first shots were struck – in a cold wall of precipitation – a certain kind of feeling was present on the tee at the Suburban Club.  It was an apparent sense that Boys’ Latin would not fall easily – that they were ready to compete and that they would hold their ground with their very best efforts.

 

Junior Ben Whitman took an early lead on Gilman’s top player (considered by many to be the conference’s best) – and refused to relinquish that lead throughout the day.  At day’s end, Whitman, a three-year veteran of the Laker squad, swept his match and collected all three points from the Greyhound Goliath.

 

After the match’s front side, the Boys’ Latin stood all-square with Gilman – a feat never before accomplished since the Lakers joined the A Conference.  It was an affirming accomplishment indeed, and team members found rejuvenated life in their games for having stood toe-to-toe with the perennial conference contender.  The enthusiasm would carry into the second half of the match – and would find the Lakers continuing in their underdog battle.

 

Competing in his first varsity match, Freshman Will Guy posted a tremendous effort – collecting 2.5 points in the line-up’s #2 slot.  Wielding a dependable driver and deft touch greenside, Guy plodded through rain and cold to halve the match’s front side before winning it’s back and total.  In what could be one of the day’s finest highlights, Guy had found himself bunkered in three near the final green (a par five), with his opponent facing a birdie chip from 30 feet.  Undaunted, Guy played a perfectly-executed sand shot that came to rest three feet from the hole.  It was a putt that he would make – and when his opponent failed to better the effort, Guy would collect his points in what was easily the finest first-match showing in Laker Golf history.

 

A.J. Billig re-entered the line-up after finding himself away from the team in 2008.  It was a welcome return for the Junior, and he wasted no time in making his presence known.  Billig took a one-up lead early, and didn’t release the advantage all afternoon.  His game reflected consistency and maturity – and when the final putt was holed, Billig would notch 3 points in winning the front, back and total matches.

 

Though they would not collect points on the day, valiant efforts were reflected in the games of Juniors Matt Sherman and Neil Peck.  Sherman, the team captain, spoke words of affirmation and encouragement to his teammate, Billig, throughout the day – and plodded through his own battle with one of Gilman’s toughest challengers.  Peck, playing in his first-ever competitive match, maintained his classic calm demeanor and level head throughout the day – and posted a fine attempt against his opponent.

 

Also playing in his inaugural match was Junior Drew White.  Having never played anything other than periodic recreational golf, White tried-out for the Team this Spring with hopes of improving his game and enjoying himself.  Dubbed “Kong” by his coaches, White marries a hit-it-hard mentality with a surprisingly delicate touch around the green.  Having shown sizable improvement since day one, White had won the qualifying spot to compete in the match’s 6 slot.  Standing on the final tee (a par 3) of the match’s front side, he stood all square with his Gilman challenger – a feat in and of itself.  And when his tee shot found the green’s fringe, Drew White was moments away from notching a much-needed half-point in the anchor slot of the day’s competition.  It was a remarkable showing from one of the team’s most endearing stories and personalities.

 

At day’s end, Boys’ Latin would fall by a single point to Gilman.  But the narrow defeat was in nearly every way, a victory for the Lakers.  Having never been so close to the top, they were inspired for having risen as far.  And for their near-victory against the conference’s top seed, they remain anchored in their purpose and affirmed in their discipline.

 

Final Score:  Boys’ Latin: 9.5  /  Gilman: 11.5

2008 Season

MIAA Individual Stroke Play Championship
May 19-21, 2008

Boys' Latin Senior Patrick Hohman stood on the par five final hole at Old South Country Club, with a feeling that his three-over par position was precariously close to a round that could find him atop the leaderboard at day's end.  His intention was to play for birdie and to finish at two-over - an excellent score given the nature of Old South's tight fairways and tucked pin position, not to mention the rain and wind that had plagued the field throughout the afternoon.   

Patrick's drive from the 18th tee box was a bit off-line and found a fairway bunker approximately 225 yards from the green.  Undaunted, Patrick proceeded to play a five wood shot from the bunker that came to rest on the back fringe, no farther than 15 feet from the hole.  Patrick studied the chip from multiple angles, addressed his 8 iron and played a bump-and-run shot that broke nearly two feet before disappearing into the cup.  Patrick Hohman had eagled the final hole to record a one over par 73 across the links of Old South Country Club.

Hohman remained the leader in the clubhouse until Gilman's Brad Miller birdied the same hole an hour later to also shoot 73 and tie Patrick for the lead.  After Miller reviewed and signed his scorecard, the players proceeded to the first tee for a sudden death playoff to decide the 2008 Championship.

Miller drew the honor and played first.  The hole ahead of him was a double-dogleg par five that offered the competitors a sizable risk-reward opportunity.  Opting for the aggressive play, Miller hit driver from the tee and cut-off the dogleg - leaving himself a mid-iron into the green.  Patrick's gameplan was more conservative and found the Laker hitting three wood up the fairway in a traditional approach to the hole's layout.  Patrick then played a five wood over trees that guarded the hole's second dogleg and pitched from there to within six feet of the hole.  Meanwhile, Miller's second shot missed the green long left, and the Gilman senior was forced to play an awkward chip shot from a poor lie - one that would roll through the green and into the opposite fringe.  Miller then putted from the fringe and motivated his ball to within inches of the hole - leaving a tap-in for par.  In the meantime, Hohman faced a six-foot putt for birdie and the victory.  It would be a putt that he would miss, and one that would find the playoff continuing to another hole.

The second hole found both Miller and Hohman hitting well-struck drives.  Miller's approach came up shot of the green, but the Greyhound played an excellent chip that nestled two feet away from the hole.  Hohman hit the green with his second shot, however his birdie putt was miss-hit and came up four feet short of the hole.  Having missed a similar putt on the preceeding hole, Hohman had to refocus in order to ensure that the playoff would continue.  He succeeded and rolled-in the par putt and the playoff moved back to the first hole once again.

Both players maintained their strategy for the hole - Miller challenging the dogleg and Hohman playing three wood to the fairway's center.  Hohman's gameplan would produce the lower score, however - and his putt for par notched a long-awaited victory for the four-year Laker starter.  In classic fashion, Patrick Hohman won the 2008 MIAA Individual Stroke Play Championship through a sudden-death playoff against one of the conference's all time great players.

Not to be outdone, Boys' Latin Sophomore Ben Whitman became the youngest Laker Golfer since joining the A Conference to secure a top ten finish.  Whitman's 5 over par 77 was good enough to tie for sixth at day's end.  After missing the cut last season, Whitman remained determined to post a solid showing in 2008 - and in doing so, reaffirmed his place as one of the conference's fastest rising stars.

The Laker Golf Team remains very proud of the effort of both Patrick Hohman and Ben Whitman, and proudly salutes them during this time of celebration.  To that end, Boys' Latin remains grateful for gentlemen competitors like Brad Miller who represent themselves and their school with integrity and purpose.

Congratulations Patrick!  Congratulations Ben!  The Laker Golf Team is proud of your efforts!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Boys' Latin vs Gilman
May 6, 2008

In the final match of the season, the Lakers traveled to Greenspring Valley Hunt Club to challenge the 8-1 Gilman Greyhounds.  Ranked seventh in the conference heading into the day's competition, Boys' Latin needed victory to maintain their hopes for a playoff birth.

Ever the perennial stalwart, Gilman had lifted the A Conference Championship trophy countless times in years past - and stood in a healthy position to do so again in 2008.  In previous competitions, the Lakers had failed to remotely challenge the Greyhounds and had fallen sizably short in their bids to upset the conference behemoth.

This year would prove to be a slightly different story.

Playing with dogged purpose and intention, Boys' Latin fought hard in the match's front side and collected three out of six points from the Greyhounds - thereby splitting the competition's first half.  Commencing play in the match's second side found Boys' Latin therefore all square against their opponents - a position in which the Lakers had never before found themselves against the Greyhounds.

As is nearly always the case, the match's second half would carry the associated points of three matches (back, total, and team) - and therefore outweight the front side in aggregate scoring value.  With this in mind, the Lakers remained focused on doing their best and anchored in discipline against their opponent. 

In the end, Boys' Latin would fall short in their attempt to upset #2 Gilman - but it would not be for lack of intention or deficit of purpose.  The match's completion found the team having gained the respect of another conference peer - as well as the value in knowing that they had produced a fine showing against a worthy opponent.

Laker Senior Patrick Hohman recorded five birdies, en route to shooting two-under-par for the day...and halved his match against Gilman's top seed.  Hohman's effort was one of his finest showings in four years as a Laker - and leveraged excellent course management and decision-making with heightened ball-striking and short game prowess.  Hohman remained focused throughout the day and in splitting the match in his final round as a Laker, secured a valuable one and a half points for the team.

Sophomore Ben Whitman won the match's front side and total en route to collecting two points for the team.  Whitman offset a shaky driver with superb critical-thinking and creative recovery-shots in order to remain in-control throughout the afternoon.  With nearly twenty tournaments lined-up for the summer season, Whitman stands ready to continue in his remarkable improvement in the off-season.  The years to come offer great promise for this Laker team member.

Junior Gates Blair took control early in his match, and maintained his lead throughout the day.  Through effective course management and competitive decision-making, Blair collected points by winning the front, back and total matches.  Having struggled with emotions and confidence early in the season, his performance against Gilman was a welcome showing - and one that earned him applause from his coaches and teammates afterwards.    

Sophomore Matt Sherman fought hard and split his competition's front side.  Sherman's work ethic remains his greatest strength - and the value of such an attribute was manifest in his performance early in the match.  Sherman continues to develop, both as a golfer and a team leader - and reflects great possibility for the time ahead.

Though Brenden Schwartz and Kevin Foreman would fall short in their attempts to collect points in their respective matches, each one capped off remarkable seasons that found them experiencing substantial development.  Having struggled mid-season after being sidelined with illness, Foreman worked his way back to competitive form and improved his scoring average in the process.  In his second season on the squad, Schwartz continued his development - moving for a time into the scoring range of a single-digit handicapper.  This was no small achievement, as Schwartz had previously recorded scores of 120 and higher, not more than fifteen months prior.  Both Foreman and Schwartz should be praised for their development, and affirmed in their value and placement on the team.

At day's end, the Lakers left Greenspring Valley Hunt Club without a victory; but not without the respect of their peers and the solace found in the value of hard-fought competition.  For that, and for so much more, the coaching staff remains very proud of the team.


Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 6.5  /  Gilman:  14.5



Boys' Latin vs Calvert Hall
May 1, 2008

The Lakers traveled to The Country Club of Maryland to face-off against #1 ranked Calvert Hall; and though they would fall short in their bid to upset the conference stawart, Boys' Latin produced a respectable showing and held their own throughout the afternoon's competition.

Senior Patrick Hohman combined an impressive short game with a recently-modified specialty shot arsenal to collect two and a half points against his opponent.  On multiple occasions, Hohman produced recovery shots from positions of substantial challenge that awed the gallery and produced cheers of appreciation from both teams.  One such shot was struck on the twelfth hole.  After his tee shot had come to rest amongst a thick collection of evergreens that guarded the green from the left rough, Hohman opted to play a punch shot through a small opening in hopes of reaching the green.  Such hopes were realized when his ball exited the trees without failure, landed on the green successfully, and came to rest on its back edge -approximately fifteen feet from the hole.  It was a remarkable shot and one that reflects both the mentality and the talent of the Laker Senior.

Having lost the match's front side at the hands of a long-hitting opponent, Junior Kevin Foreman dug deep within himself and battled back during the competition's second half.  Foreman leveraged an improved short game and impressive driving accuracy to win the back and half the total matches.  Foreman's game continues to improve, and the Laker veteran shows great promise for the time ahead.

Sophomore Ben Whitman won the match's second half and collected a point for Boys' Latin.  Whitman struggled with his ball-striking throughout the day but rallied when it mattered in order to stay alive in what was a challenging match for the second year team member.

Sophomore Brenden Schwartz birdied two of the first four holes en route to halving the match's front side; and though he invariably came up short in his quest to secure the back and total points, Schwartz was praised for his intention and best efforts throughout the match.  An example of such attributes came at the par four tenth hole.  Schwart's tee shot was struck beautifully and came to rest approximately seventy yards from the green.  He stood over his second shot aware that his opponent had just hit it close and had a short putt for birdie.  Schwartz attempted a soft pitch shot that was badly miss-hit - and advanced no more than fifteen yards down the fairway.  Without a frown, Schwartz approached his next shot - which he proceeded to blade over the green and in to a lateral hazard.  Without reaction, he liftted his bag onto his shoulders and walked past the green and into the hazard.  Fully committed to the shot, Schwartz swung at the ball from within the hazard - blading it once again over the green and into a deep bunker.  Undaunted, Schwartz once again lifted his bag and proceeded to walk to the bunker.  His opponent, standing next to his short birdie putt, scratched his head while Schwartz entered the sand.  Giving his fifth shot just as much intention and focus as his first, Schwartz swung from the deep bunker.  His shot exited the sand, came to rest within ten feet of the hole...and disappeared into the cup.  No matter the odds, no matter the situation, Brenden Schwartz doesn't quit.

At day's end, Boys' Latin would sacrifice all three team points, and suffer a full sweep in the numbers five and six slots en route to a tough loss against Calvert Hall.  But the day did not end without a number of lessons and points of insight coming the way of the Lakers - and the team remains enthusiastic about the season's final match and the the upcoming individual championships.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 5.5  /  Calvert Hall: 15.5    
 


Boys' Latin vs John Carroll
April 30, 2008

In their final home match of the season, Boys' Latin played host to John Carroll in what would be a close contest across the layout of The Suburban Club.  The Lakers understood that victory was essential in order to remain alive in the conference standings, and brought their fullest collective intention to the match against the Patriots.  Success proved to be the manifestation of such focus, as at day's end Boys' Latin secured a hard-fought victory.

Sophomore Brenden Schwartz rallied throughout the afternoon - first from a lost front side to a two-up position in the match's second half; then from a rules infraction that cost him a late loss-of-hole to a victory on the very next hole to award him with a hard-earned half-point.  Schwartz' stoic demeanor and lack of outward expression worked to his advantage in a match that had all the makings of a nail-biter.  By remaining firm in discipline, the second-year starter permitted himself the continual ability to remain anchored in substance and unaware of surrounding noise.  The result was a half-point that helped secure victory for Boys' Latin.

Not to be outdone in the department of winning mentality, Junior Gates Blair returned to the starting line-up committed to tackling issues of confidence and focus that had plagued him throughout the season.  Such committment was well-anchored, as Blair also rallied from a loss on the match's front side to win the back half and secure an important point for the Lakers.  Blair's ability to rally was not lost in the observations of the coaching staff, who remarked with appreciation that he was "like a different player - poised and focused" - which, in the end, made all the difference for the third-year team member and 2008 Co-Captain.

Sophomore Ben Whitman took an early lead and remained in-control throughout the competition, en route to winning the total point early into the match's second half.  Having struggled with his tee-shots early in the match, Whitman made a tempo modification on the fourth hole – one that would result in success and yield an impressive display of total driving throughout the remainder of the competition.  Whitman’s return to peak-performance is well-timed, as the Lakers head into the final two matches of the season; and neither his teammates nor the second-year team member himself could be more encouraged by the current state of his game.

 

Junior Kevin Foreman leveraged improved ball-striking and mature course-management to secure a valuable half point in his match’s second half.  Additionally, the team veteran combined with Patrick Hohman to anchor an important victory in the team competition.  Pound-for-pound the strongest member of the team, Foreman’s tee shots continue to increase in length –  as evidenced by a  drive on the eleventh hole that carried an estimated two-hundred-eighty yards.  Foreman’s leadership ability and competitive example continue to prove valuable for the Lakers; and his impact on the squad’s collective success cannot be overstated.   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sophomore Matt Sherman returned from a disheartening loss against St. Paul’s re-energized and re-fueled for competition.  One of the team’s all time most-improved players (having dropped no less than fifty shots from his scoring average in 15 months), Sherman combined improved dynamic balance and visualization skills to elevate his game to heightened standards.  Sherman's victory on the match’s front side secured an all-square status for the Lakers following completion of the competition's first half; and in closing out the total match four-and-three, he collected the final point needed to win the day’s match-up.  Unaware that the match had been secured, Sherman stood on the final tee box  believing victory on the hole was necessary.  With the eyes of a full gallery upon him, Sherman proceeded to split the fairway with his drive, advance his second shot from a poor lie, and then connect on an approach shot that would settle fifteen feet from the hole.  Two putts later, Sherman had secured an impressive par as well as the respect and support of a cheering gallery.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Playing in his first competitive match, Freshman Kendall Newman brought full focus to his match in the number eight slot; and received well-deserved accolades for the intention and purpose he brought throughout the day  Though victory would elude him, "K-New" nonetheless inspired his teammates with his eye-of-the-tiger focus and competitiveness.

Sophomore Nico Kanaras dug deep within himself to rally from a challenging loss on the match's front side.  The first year team member and manager rallied to win the first three holes of the match's second-half en route to a one point victory over his opponent.  Kanaras continues to participate in significant game-improvement and has impressed his teammates and coaches with his competitive style and substance.

Competing in his final home match, Senior Patrick Hohman capped his relationship with The Suburban Course in classic fashion - by crusing through its layout with a take-no-prisioners mentality en route to securing all three points for Boys' Latin.  The first team member to play four years under Coach Champion, Hohman has matured from a mid-90's shooter as a freshman to the scratch-handicap he is as a Senior.  As he heads to Methodist Universtiy in the Fall in his pursuit of PGA Membership, Hohman stands ready to progress in his journey to grow as an individual through the game of golf.  His focus, intensity, and leadership will be missed by his Laker teammates; however the time ahead will no doubt find a new peer group at Methodist enjoying the blessings of friendship with Patrick Hohman.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Boys’ Latin faces top-ranked Calvert Hall next and then experiences a brief rest before facing Gilman in the final match of the season.  In light of their recent performances against St. Paul’s and John Carroll, the team appears poised to take-on their opposition with new-found fervor and momentum.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Final Score:  Boys’ Latin: 12.5  /  John Carroll: 8.5

Boys' Latin vs Saint Paul's
April 29, 2008

Boys' Latin faced top-ranked Saint Paul's in a match contested across the links at The Suburban Club, and went the distance against a squad that they had struggled to combat since joining the A Conference five years ago. 

As if often the case, the final score failed to reflect the true competitiveness of the day's happenings.  Across the final two holes no less than nine points rode on the outcome of shots played on the closing par four and par five.  Following the completion of matches one through four, the two teams found themselves deadlocked in a score of seven to seven - focused on the anchor points of matches five and six.  And though in the end the Lakers' point total would come up short, Boys' Latin would exit the course with an understanding that through hard work and determination they had fought the good fight and had finished the race.

With his trademark grind-it-out and hit-it-hard mentality, Senior Patrick Hohman collected two and a half points for the Lakers; and set the pace early by establishing a respectable lead for Boys' Latin.  Hohman incorporated a knock-down shot into his swing arsenal for the day's match-up - a move that served him well on multiple occasions during the competition.

Junior Kevin Foreman exploded out of the gate and secured a point by winning his match's front side.  Foreman leveraged a hot putter, strong short-game, and impressive total driving while firing-up his teammates throughout the day with his bulldog approach.

Sophomore Ben Whitman halved the front side and then went on to win the back and total match against his opponent.  Having found a water hazard with his tee shot on the final hole, Whitman scrambled to position himself with a twelve foot par putt that he needed to make in order to secure two points.  When the putt disappeared into the cup, cheers were heard from the gallery and Whitman responded with a rallying fist-pump.  

Alas, though matches five and six were close, they would end in defeat for the Lakers.  With the match tied seven to seven, the day's outcome would come down to the efforts of the final two players across the final two holes.  Unfortunately, an miss-cue of strategy, an unjustifiable putt concession, a failure to remove an obstruction and a critical rules infraction would all present themselves within mere moments of one another - and would combine to keep victory out of the grasp of Boys' Latin.

Nonetheless, in going the distance against Saint Paul's, the Lakers once again proved that their diligence continues to pay dividends and their intention remains their largest strength.  As one of the coaches said "Individually they are good, but collectively they are flat-out strong."

In their actions on and off the course the Lakers continue to choose virtue and integrity, comraderie and brotherhood.  They continue to opt for hard work, discipline and determination over contention, indifference and complaint.  They are a team of gentlemen who serve a shared purpose - a tight-knit family with the same collective identity.  They are men of truth and therefore men of strength.  And in the end, all the points in the world aren't worth trading for the authentic bonds between teammates.

The coaching staff remains pleased with the development of the team, and at this juncture is encouraged in examination of the days ahead.  Boys' Latin plays host to John Carroll next in the final home match of the season.  The Lakers appears poised for a good showing and stand ready for the time to come.

Final Score: Boys' Latin: 7  /  Saint Paul's: 14




Boys' Latin vs McDonogh
April 24, 2008

It's been said that a man is not finished when he's defeated, but rather when he quits.

The Lakers aren't finished.

Following the conclusion of a match that found #6 ranked Boys' Latin upset by #8 ranked McDonogh, the Lakers gathered for a review of the day's unfortunate loss.  It was a session that found the squad learning from missed opportunities.  It was a time to refocus, rededicate, and regroup.  It was a time to learn from the practicality of defeat and collectively advance in cohesion and team unity.  But it was not a time to quit.

McDonogh combined course management and teamwork with short game prowess to secure victory against the Lakers.  Their team behaved as gentlemen and should be commended not only for their fine play but for their sportsmanship.

Coming off three straight victories, Boys' Latin had momentum and home course advantage heading into the competition.  However, though at day's end the Lakers did not post their worst showing of the season, neither did the team bring their collective A-game to the match-up.

Sophomore Brenden Schwartz drained a 30 foot birdie putt on the 5th hole to close-in on his opponent; and hit it close on the par 3 6th hole in an attempt to split the match's front side.  Though such an effort would invariably fall short, Schwartz was commended for his fine play and firm intention coming down the stretch.

Sophomore Ben Whitman staged the season's finest come-from-behind charge in playing the match's final three holes in two under par en route to winning one and a half points for the Lakers. Whitman's birdie at the eleventh followed a situation where unmarked ground under repair was treated as an immovale obtruction in light of an odd rules scenario.  Undaunted, Whitman played on - hitting his approach shot to 25 feet and draining the putt to win the hole.

Senior Patrick Hohman collected two points for the Lakers through fine play and solid ball-striking.  Competiting with his trademark intensity, Hohman shot 38 on the front nine and continued his superior shot-making on the back side.  Hohman appears close to recording a very low number; and the coaching staff remains convinced of his ability to do so in the days ahead.

Sophomore Matt Sherman was commended for his attitude and focus by McDonogh's head coach, Wright Abbott. "I wish all of my boys were as focused and as thoughtful as that young man," he said "He's got the perfect combination of grit and manners."  The Laker Coaching Staff agrees, and remains proud of Sherman for the competitive gentleman that he is.

Boys' Latin has two practice sessions before a three-match stretch that will find them facing St. Paul's, John Carroll and Calvert Hall.  With the McDonogh match now behind them and the lessons of a day of challenge learned, the Lakers are slated to progress with new-found intention and focus.

The Lakers have not quit.  And they are most certainly not finished.

Final Score: Boys' Latin 3.5  /  McDonogh: 17.5




Boys' Latin vs Archbishop Curley
April 17, 2008

Boys' Latin played host to Archbishop Curley for the seventh match of the season; and engaged the conference rival in true competitive spirit over the links of the Suburban Club.  Previous contests between the two teams had always produced close matches, and the Lakers understood the need to remain focused and intentional for their face-off against the Friars.

Junior Kevin Foreman rested in light of injury recoup, while Sophomore Brenden Schwartz progressed toward near full recovery from illness that had plagued him earlier in the week.  Foreman is expected to be back to typical form by next week, and the coaches intend to work closely with him over the next three practices in order to aid in his rehabilitation.

Speaking of rehabilitation, Junior Gates Blair leveraged a recently-mended putting stroke to secure three points for the Lakers by winning the front back and total matches against his opposition.  The quality Blair's ball-striking continues to steadily increase, while his putter has shown rapid and remarkable improvement. 

Fousing on a swing key that produced some of his finest shot-making of the season, Senior Mitchell Edison also anchored three points for the Team.  Like Blair, Edison's putting reflects sizable improvement - as the four-year team member holed numerous putts from within ten feet throughout the afternoon's contest.

Senior Patrick Hohman scrambled through the match's front side, dropping a point to his opponent in what was a very tight first half.  Nevertheless, Hohman's ability to regroup and refocus remains his greatest strength - and the team veteran dug deep over the remainder of his match to go under par and win the second half and total match.  Hohman's firey competitiveness is the cornerstone of his match play success, and the Team continues to be impressed and inspired by his example.

Sophomore Brenden Schwartz continued his successive points streak by notching victory in the matches front, back and total.  Schwartz is now fifteen of fifteen in points collected over the past five matches.  The second year team member plays with focus and dogged discipline, and remains so anchored in his intention that outside noise seems incapable of penetration.  Teammates and the Coaching Staff continue to be impressed by the growth and development of "Killer B"

Sophomore Matt Sherman remained in the line-up and partnered with Schwartz to collect the team point in their match.  Along the way, Sherman collected a valuable point by winning the match's front side on the heels of a rules infraction called against his opponent - a violation that moved Sherman to two up at the turn.  The response from his opponent was quite spirited, and such emotion remained manifest for the duration of the match.  Unthwarted, Sherman birdied the seventh hole en route to a hard-fought second half by the Laker Sophomore.  The final hole found the match all square - and with both competitors grinding out their shots with clentched fists and furled brows, Sherman called a rules infraction against himself while within a fairway bunker.  Fortunately for Sherman, he was incorrect in his understanding of the rule, and was permitted to continue without penalty.  And although the completion of the hole would find him a shot higher than his opponent, Sherman emerged the true victor in the match - an intentional, authentic, gentleman who represented himself as a sportsman and true student of the game.  Quite frankly, there's nothing more that could be asked of him.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sophomore Ben Whitman secured three valuable points for the Lakers by winning the match's front, back and total.  The second year team member recommitted following a few holes of substandard play, and through firm dedication rallied to improve his ball-striking well into the match's second half.  The Team Co-Captain is currently incorporating a new methodology into his full swing, and the results (currently reflective in roughly one in three shots) are remarkable.  Whitman's dynamic balance and coordination remain two of his finest strengths, and combine with an intensity to form one of the finest total games in the conference.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Of additional note is the fine play by Freshmen Sam Huber and Stephen Sample - both participating in their very first competitive matches.  Playing in the seven and eight slot, Huber and Sample each won their matches through excellent play and decisive course management.  The one-two punch of Huber / Sample is something the Coaching Staff anticipates to be a reality within the Laker Golf Program for years to come. 

Having won three straight matches, the Lakers find themselves moving north in the conference standings.  With a bye on Tuesday, the Team finds themselves with ample preparation time for their next match - against McDonogh on April 24th.  In the meantime, Boys' Latin has come to understand that though victory on the course is nice, true victory is found in doing one's best.  The Coaches remain very proud of their team members, and encouraged by their ongoing display of hard work and sportsmanship.

 

Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 18  /  Archbishop Curley: 3 




Boys' Latin vs Saint Mary's
April 15, 2008

The Lakers traveled to Old South Country Club in Lothian, Maryland to face Saint Mary's in the sixth match of the season.  A challenging layout that rewards shot-making and punishes miss-hits, Old South stands as one of the most difficult courses within the conference.

 

Previous matches against Saint Mary's had always been close contests - rarely failing to go the full distance of the competition.  And when the matches are held at Old South, Saint Mary's holds a clear home-course advantage.

Committed to continuing in their efforts to do their best and commit fully to every shot, Boys' Latin entered the day focused on remaining intentional with each swing.  Junior Kevin Foreman returned to the line-up after having been sidelined with injury; and Sophomore Brenden Schwartz played after resting for four days due to illness.  With both Foreman and Schwartz "playing hurt" the team was lifted and inspired by their example and committment to excellence.

Senior Patrick Hohman hit every green in regulation en route to shooting one under par and collected three points from his opponent.  Hohman is currently displaying excellent shot-making prowess and greenside creativity, as well as increasingly impressive total driving ability.  His game continues to improve and the coaching staff remains very proud of his development.

Junior Gates Blair collected three points from his opponent via strategic course managament decisions and proper offensive/defensive disciplines.  Blair, a three-year team veteran, leveraged a much-improved short game and heightened on-course maturity to secure his points for the team.  Blair continues to improve in his game development and his scores have begun to reflect this advancement.

In combining dogged focus with excellent ball-striking, Sophomore Brenden Schwartz notched three points against his opponent.  Schwartz is now twelve for twelve in the last four matches - having collected all possible points in each of the last four contests.  His scoring average has dropped more than fifty shots in fourteen months, and Schwartz has literally gone from shooting 130 to breaking 80 in little more than a year's time.  Great promise continues to lie ahead for "Killer B."

Junior Kevin Foreman fought hard to collect half a point against his opponent, and did so by winning the final hole of his match.  Foreman's efforts to play through the pain of injury were inspiring and admired by his teammates.  All members of the team remain very proud of Kevin for the standards that he maintains and his ability to lead by example.  He is intentional and focused, and remains a valuable component to the Laker Golf Team.

Sophomore Matt Sherman grinded out three points in his match by combining a never-say-die attitude with remarkable shot-making.  Sherman recorded two birdies in eleven holes, and in doing so won the match's front, back and total.  The second year team member remains a good example to teammates, and is a testament to the notion that hard work trumps raw talent.

Though poor shots did not elude him, Sophomore Ben Whitman was able to refocus numerous times throughout his match in order to collect and regroup throughout the competiton.  In doing so, he remained intentional over each shot and invariably gathered three points from his opponent.  Whitman continues to impress his teammates and coaching staff with his on-course maturity and resilience.  His mannerisms and mentality align with an individual years his senior; and as his ball-striking improves, he will no doubt continue to improve tremendously.

Not to be outdone, Sophomores Sammy Dunbar and Andrew Holmes each shot thirty-nine acrosss Old South's front nine.  Playing in the #7 & #8 slots, Dunbar and Holmes continued their recent fine play and impressed the team with their scoring ability.  Expect big things from these rising stars.

In the end, Boys' Latin continued their excellent play and secured victory against Saint Mary's.  The Lakers remain anchored in intention and firm in their focus.  Their shot-making, short games, and course management reflect ongoing improvement and their enthusiasm remains heightened as they head toward their next oponent, Archbishop Curley, on April 17th.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 18.5  /  Saint Mary's:  2.5




Boys' Latin vs Annapolis Area Christian School
April 10, 2008

There's nearly always a tipping point - an instant when the momentum behind sizable change becomes incapable of reversal.  For Boys' Latin, the tipping point came in the fifth match of the 2008 season.

Facing off against Annapolis Area Christian School, the Lakers recorded their finest showing of the season - and in the end defeated their opposition by a sizable margin.

By once again combining strategic course management with ever-improving short games and ball-striking, the Lakers continued their fine play across the links at Eisenhower Golf Course.  With only one team member (Matt Sherman) having previously played the course, Boys' Latin had a distinct disadvantage against AACS by way of an unfamiliar course layout.  Nonetheless, team members relied on their intention, focus, strategy, and (most importantly) each other in order to discern target-lines, angles of approach, and landing areas.  In doing so, the Lakers were able to overcome a deficit in course knowledge and anchor the match's momentum behind fine play and solid teamwork.

Patrick Hohman shot one under par through ten holes before closing out his opponent en route to collecting three points for the team.  Patrick's fine play ranked as one of his finest performances in his four years on the Team.  His ball-striking continues to improve and his greenside prowess is ever-increasing.  The Lakers remain proud of the team veteran, and are encouraged by his example.

Sophomore Matt Sherman, who little more than a year ago struggled to break 120, shot 43 across the front nine at Eisenhower.  Playing with his trademark intensity, Sherman was a consummate teammate, both in style and substance.  His work ethic strong and his intention firm, Sherman collected all three points from his opponent by balancing impressive shot-making with an improved short-game.  Through his fine play this week, Matt Sherman has proven, both to his teammates and to himelf, that his place in the line-up is of substantial value.  

Sophomore Brenden Schwartz continued his unprecedented play by shooting 39 on the front nine at Eisenhower.  Schwartz, who like Sherman was a 120 shooter 14 month ago, has broken through and succeeded in his goal of becoming a single-digit handicap.  In doing so, Schwartz has secured nine of the last nine possible points in matches - and collected three points against AACS just as he had against Mt. St. Joseph and against Archbishop Spalding.  Schwartz's on-course development has been remarkable and his scoring average is beginning to reflect the realities of his game's maturation.

Junior Gates Blair tossed aside the moniker "best player not to have won three points" by handily defeating his opponent three ways via improved ball-striking, narrowed miss-hit dispersion, and excellent total driving.  The Team Co-Captain, Blair stands ready for the matches ahead.  His confidence boosted and his shot-making improved, the odds are high that more three-point days are in this team leader's future.

Having played well during the match's front half, Sophomore Ben Whitman struggled on the second side.  However, the other half of the Laker Team Captaincy stayed firm in his focus - and battled back from a three-down dormie position to take the match to the final green.  At day's end, Whitman would collect one point for the squad, but not without gaining substantial respect for the turn-around fueled from a never-say-die attitude.

Senior Mitchell Edison continued with his impressive driving accuracy, and hit fairways with remarkable ease throughout the day.  En route to collecting two points for the match's front side and total, Edison rested at day's end having played brilliantly throughout the week.  Beloved by his teammates and coaches, Edison has always had one of the team's most cherished personalities.  In 2008, he's got a golf game to match.

Although Kevin Foreman was once again sidelined with illness, he traveled with the squad and cheered throughout the day for his teammates.  The Lakers continue to keep Kevin in their thoughts with hopes of a speedy recovery.

The Lakers are hitting the ball well.  Their course management and shot-making continue to improve.  Their intention is firm; and most importantly, their best-efforts are never failing to materialize.  They are dedicating themselves fully over every shot and are holding each other accountable to do their best.  Comraderie is high and focus is strong.  The coaches remain very confident in the team and are pleased that they have been able to taste victory.  The time ahead continues to offer great promise for this Laker squad.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 18  /  Annapolis Area Christian School: 3




Boys' Latin vs Archbishop Spalding
April 8, 2008

21 to 0.  18.5 to 2.5.  Those were the scores of the 2006 and 2007 matches between Boys' Latin and Archbishop Spalding - each one a sizable defeat for the Lakers.  With 2008 finding Spalding atop the conference standings (including a sizable upset over conference stalwart, Gilman), the Lakers entered the day with an understanding of the formidable task before them.  However, although they recognized the talent level of their opponents, Boys' Latin refused to be intimidated.  Instead, the Lakers remaind focused on the task at hand - to remain intentional over every shot and to give their best throughout the day.  As Ben Hogan once said, "With keenness and determination, there's nothing you can't accomplish."

Ben Hogan would have been proud.

For the second connsecutive match, the Lakers went the distance against their opponent; and as was the case in the previous day's contest against Mt. St. Joseph, the match was decided on the final putt of the final green on the final hole of the match.  This time, Archbishop Spalding sank a seven footer to close the door on the Lakers - but not before gaining some respect for a squad that in years past had failed to produce a showing that challenged the perennial conference contender. 

Sophomores Ben Whitman and Brenden Schwartz continued their excellent play - collecting 2 points and 3 points respectively.  Having lost the match's front side, Whitman turned things around in the second half en route to securing his points for the day.  Schwartz remained in a groove established during the match against Mt. St. Joseph, and notched his second connsecutive full sweep against the opposition.  Not to be outdone, Senior Mitchell Edison recorded a near personal best for nine holes and shot a 41 over the front side at The Suburban Club - a score that included six 1-putt greens, a truly impressive statistic.  Senior, Patrick Hohman rallied to win the 6th hole in route to halving he match's front side; and played with strength for the rest of the afternoon to secure the remaining 2 points, as well as the team point with his partner.  Matt Sherman and Gates Blair, though closed out for the day, played with focus and determination - and in doing so, reanchored the admiration of their peers and coaches.  Once again, Kevin Foreman was unable to compete due to illness - but remained in the gallery throughout the day and encouraged his teammates during the competition.

The Lakers are playing excellent golf.  They are striking the ball brilliantly and have sharpened their short games.  They are performing well under pressure and are managing their games with discernment and intention.  Though notches in the win column have eluded them thusfar, team members remain committed to doing their best - which in the end, is truly the greatest victory.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 9  /  Archbishop Spalding: 12

 


Boys' Latin vs Mount Saint Joseph
April 7, 2008

In what was one of the closest matches in Laker Golf history, Mount Saint Joseph edged out Boys' Latin by making the final putt of the final hole in the final pairing.  Until that putt was holed, the two teams stood all square by way of a head to head match-up that had found the Lakers playing their best golf of the season.

Focus was maintained throughout the afternoon and shots were played with intention, as the Lakers dug deep within themselves in their face-off against the conference contender.  In years past, Boys' Latin had fallen significantly short in their attempts to outplay Mt. St. Joseph - but this year proved otherwise, as Boys' Latin came to fight.

Aided by re-engineered short games and newly-anchored determination, the Lakers successfully got up-and-down throughout the match and handily made countless key putts throughout the day.  The shots that had previously eluded them around the greens were being played with ease and a aura of confidence this time around.

Sophomores Ben Whitman and Brenden Schwartz swept their opponents, en route to securing three points each.  Schwartz, a 115-125 shooter just 14 months ago, fired a front-nine 38, and during one remarkable stretch in the match's second half, birdied three of the five closing holes.  Whitman stepped on the gas as well, and offset a shaky driver with deft touch and greenside magic in closing out his opponent three ways.

Playing in his first match of the season, Matt Sherman competed with grit and dogged discipline.  Although shut out by day's end, Sherman would impress his fellow teammates and coaches with a deeply-rooted desire to compete and an unprecedented drive to accel.

Mitchell Edison and Gates Blair collected a point each - Edison on the match's front side, and Blair in the match's second half.  Junior Kevin Foreman was sidelined from competition and unable to play.  However, Foreman walked alongside his teammates throughout the day, offering words of affirmation and encouragement.

At day's end, although Mount Saint Joseph notched the victory, the Lakers were commended and encouraged by their coaches for having fought the good fight and having finished the race.  They did not give up.  They did not waiver from their disciplines.  They did not fall short in their efforts.  Boys' Latin gave 100% and played very well.  In doing so, they not only raised their own understanding of what can be accomplished through hard work, but they also nearly overthrew a conference rival that they had never previously beaten.

In spite of a teammate's absence, the Lakers rose to the occasion.  For that they are to be commended.  They are playing their best golf of the season as they head toward the next two matches of the week - Archbishop Spalding and Annapolis Area Christian School.  Regardless of the outcome, one thing's for sure...Boys' Latin will give 'em a fight.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 10  /  Mount Saint Joseph: 11




Boys' Latin vs Saints Peter & Paul
April 3, 2008

During a match that found them battling the elements just as much as their opponents, Boys' Latin hosted Saints Peter & Paul in the season's home opener.  As the temperature dipped to thirty-seven degrees, the precipitation that had plagued the competition for most of the day transitioned to freezing-rain.  A slight wind did nothing to help matters for the competitors, and players struggled throughout the afternoon to maintain focus and intention over what was easily the most challenging day of weather this season.

Nonetheless, the match played on.

Their ball-striking was relatively strong throughout the day; however the short-games of four of the team's six players consistently failed to produce.  Three-putting, bladed chips and the inability to get the ball on the green from a position already close to the fringe out-weighed the positive facets of an otherwise solid day of shot-making.  Players were very good at the challenging parts of the game (driving, approaches, trouble-shots) but more than struggled with the easier components (lag putting, chipping, pitching).  Additionally, players consistently reflected a loss of intention over their shots - refusing to re-start pre-shot routine when distracted, ignoring the need to line-up putts and dismissing the notion that aligning their pitch shots with an intermediate target was necessary.  This lack of intention only aided in dismantling their ablity to gain an edge on their opponents.

Boys' Latin battled Saints Peter and Paul througough the day.  In fact, the match went late into the round before being decided.  At points throughout the day, five of the six Laker golfers were either even or up in their match.  Alas, due to the aforementioned realities, such advantages were only temporary.

Patrick Hohman and Ben Whitman played remarkably well throughout the day - securing the only points for the team in the day's competition.  Hohman won all three points from his opponent, and Whitman split the match three ways en route to notching one and a half points for the day.  Additionally, the duo secured the team point in the better ball competition.  Neither player was distracted enough in his match to lose sight of his goal and fail in his intention.  Neither Whitman nor Hohman openly complained of the weather nor were thwarted by the discomfort it produced.  And each player completed a remarkably impressive round of competitive golf.  The coaches' hats were off to both Whitman and Hohman following the completion of the round for the fine manner in which they played and conducted themselves.

Of further note is the support maintained by the non-playing members of the Laker squad. Galleries of three to four team members followed each group throughout the day - and fought the elements in order to cheer on Boys' Latin squad.  "It's how we roll," said the coaches after the round "Together.  As a team.  In good weather and in bad, we stand united."  This mentality was reflected on the course as well through the actions of Laker starter Brenden Schwartz.  Having been closed out of his match on the tenth green, Schwartz stood on the eleventh tee box with his match having been completed.  His teammate, Kevin Foreman, was however still engaged in his own match and preparing to tee off.  Schwartz's opponent decided to exit the match and seek the warmth of the team van.  But not Schwartz.  It wasn't even an option.  The Laker sophomore put his hands in his pockets and continued down the fairway, walking alongside his teammate, encouraging him to play well.  For Schwartz, as for every Laker Golfer, leaving a teammate in the middle of competition was not an option.

At day's end, a new tradition was instituted.  Laker Team tailgates, which have traditionally followed home matches, were extended to the visiting team.  In a gesture of sportsmanship, the Lakers actively decided to bring extra food to the matches this season in order to send some with the opponents as they travel home.  Saints Peter and Paul left The Suburban Club therefore with three pizzas, some chips and cookies courtesey of the Boys' Latin Golf Team.  "It serves the spirit of the game," the coaches said, again reiterating "That's how we roll."

Short game practice sessions await the Lakers - as do many more matches.  The unfortunate realities of the Saints Peter & Paul match are overweighed by the understanding inherent to the Team's potential.  With shot-making, ball-striking, and total driving secured, the Lakers need only anchor the finer details of putting, chipping, and focus in order to accelerate in their competitive accomplishment.  "They're close," the coaches remarked "They're very close."

Final Score:   Boys' Latin: 4.5  /  Saints Peter & Paul:  16.5    

 


Boys' Latin vs Loyola
April 1, 2008

The Lakers came out swinging in their first match of the season - and faced off against Loyola in a hard-fought battle over the links of Hunt Valley Country Club.  In what could be considered their finest opening day showing in years, Boys' Latin fought hard and produced a fine showing against their competition.

Standing toe to toe with his opponent throughout the day and completing the round's second half in two under par, Patrick Hohman proceeded to collect all three points in his match.  Not to be outdone, Ben Whitman completed a remarkable turn-around and secured a much-needed point by winning the second half of his match.   Kevin Foreman grinded out the match's first half to secure a valuable half point for the Lakers.  Competing in only the second match in four years of team membership, Mitchell Edison played with intensity and notched a half point for Boys' Latin late in the match.  Of further note is the performance of Matt Sherman, who played as the Team's 7th man in the consolation match.  Sherman took two-and-a-half points from his opponent, notching victory through a solid performance at Hunt Valley Country Club. 

The Lakers went the distance against Loyola; and though the final score rarely reflects such a reality, the match was a close one for most of the day.  In the end, Loyola secured victory - but not without gaining some respect for the Boys' Latin Golf Team and their committment to compeition.

Additionally, it should be noted that the Lakers demonstrated heightened levels of respect and character during their match - and acted as gentlemen while facing off against a team that matched emotion with talent.  The Coaching Staff remains very proud of the Lakers for the way their carried themselves - as competitors and as gentlemen.

Thursday wil find Boys' Latin hosting Saints Peter & Paul at The Suburban Club for the 2008 home opener.  With an understanding in place of what it will take to reach the next level, the Lakers stand ready to face the challenge of their next match.

Final Score:  Boys' Latin: 6  /  Loyola 15     

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2007 Season


The Kid's Got Game
Laker Team Captain Patrick Hohman MIAA Individuals in Classic Fashion
May 10, 2007

Boys' Latin Junior, Patrick Hohman fired a final round 78 Tuesday en route to tying for 10th Place at the MIAA Individual Tournament. The third and last leg of the 54 hole championship was held at Hayfields Country Club in Hunt Valley, Maryland - a challenging layout for members of the Champions Tour (who have previously played Hayfields as the venue for the Constellation Energy Classic), let alone players in the MIAA Conference. Regardless, competitors were rewarded for their fine play in the first two rounds with a final 18 holes contested over the links of one of Maryland's finest layouts.

Hohman entered the final round with a 159 total - having recorded scores of 75 at Mount Pleasant Golf Course and 84 at Pine Ridge Golf Course in rounds one and two respectively. The third and final round found Hohman negotiating the first eight holes at Hayfields Country Club at even par - helped in large part by two birdies thanks to a hot putter. Misfortune found Hohman on the par four ninth hole, however - and he finished the front nine with a four over par total of 40. Undaunted, the Laker Team Captain negotiated the back nine in a respectable fashion - shooting a two over par 38.

Patrick's keen course management, stern focus, and never-say-die attitude served him well throughout the MIAA Individual Tournament. His performance in the Championship established him with formality where the Lakers always knew he stood - amongst the top golfers in the conference.

Congratulations Pat. The Lakers remain proud to call you their Captain.

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Boys' Latin vs Mt. St. Joseph
May 7, 2007

The Lakers traveled to Rolling Road Country Club to face off against Mt. St. Joseph for the final match of the 2007 Season. For the first time in nearly three weeks, Boys' Latin was able to field a full line-up of healthy starters - a blessing that found the Lakers most appreciative.

A relatively short golf course, Rolling Road winds through hilly terrain and boasts small, firm and very fast greens. Accuracy and Course Management are therefore placed at a premium over Distance and Power. Understanding this, the Lakers arrived prepared to opt for fairway woods and long irons off the tee versus driver in most instances.

It was a strategy that served the Lakers well - as Boys' Latin took the lead early on in the match. Midway through the front half, the Lakers lead in all but two matches. Unfortunately, that lead would ultimately fall to a Mt. St. Joe team that battled back to claim victory for the day.

Special recognition is due to Patrick Hohman for sweeping his opponent in the match's front, back and total. His course management strong, Pat recorded a front nine total of 39 en route to his collection of three-points for the Lakers.

As well, A.J. Billig is deserving of special recognition. Having lost the front, A.J. negotiated his way back into contention on the match's second half - and won the final hole in dramatic fashion to win the back and halve the total match. Having popped-up his drive on the par five final hole, A.J. advanced his second shot to approximately 240 yards from the green. His third shot could not have been struck better - a five wood that landed on the green's front half and rolled to within 12 feet of the hole. A.J. would make par, win the final hole, and secure a point and a half for the Lakers.

All in all, the Lakers were unable to bring their A-games to their face-off against Mt. St. Joe. However, they did end the season with a great deal of promise awaiting them in the time ahead. All members of the 2007 Golf Team will return for the 2008 Season - and all members are committed to improving their games in the off-season. The coaches remain proud of the Team and are more than pleased with the development shown this season. 2007 was most certainly, a success on multiple levels.

Final Score: Boys' Latin: 6 / Mt. St. Joseph: 15

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Boys' Latin vs St. Paul's
April 27, 2007

Boys' Latin faced perennial conference contender, St. Paul's on Friday - in a home match that found the Lakers once again fighting illness as much as the competition.

With Kevin Foreman removed from the line-up and starters Ian Obligin & A.J. Billig battling sickness, Boys' Latin took to the course yet again with a non-traditional line-up of starters.

"The final score today is not as important as your ability to dig deep within yourself - past the discomfort and the weariness of illness - and find it within your gut to fight hard in your last home match of the season," the coaches communicated to the team prior to the match's kick-off. "We expect from you that you will fight hard, with the ferocity of a determinted team - that you will rise up and fail to heed the voice in your head that says 'you're tired, it's over, just quit, just give up.' Do your best today. Fight hard. Remain focused. And don't give up."

That guidance seemed to stay with the Lakers throughout their match - and Boys' Latin went on to produce their finest showing against St. Paul's since entering the conference four years ago.

As is often the case, the final score did not reflect the close nature of the match itself. In fact, the Lakers held their ground agaist St. Paul's deep into the match's second half - and at one point late in the match appeared positioned to assume the lead. Alas, in the end Boys' Latin would fall on the unfortunate side of the match's outcome; but day's end found the Lakers having served up a strong fight and a respectible showing nonetheless.

Notable mention for the day goes to A.J. Billig - who played in his fourth straight match while also battling sickness. A.J.'s "play hurt" mentality served match after match as a point of inspiration for the team - lifting the Lakers individually and as a team to new heights of belief and aspiration. That A.J. went on to collect two points against St. Paul's only added to the admiration from his teammates and coaches. A.J. faced his opponent with determination and focus - and in doing so, collected points for winning the match's front half and total.

Additional recognition is given to Ian Obligin for collecting two and a half points in his match. The Boys' Latin Senior was competing in his final home match as a Laker - and did so in classic fashion, by collecting two and a half points from his opponent. A member of the Laker Golf Team for four years, Obligin's achievement in his final match served as proper closure for a high school golf experience that has yielded significant growth and development.

The Lakers ended the day by yielding a victory to St. Pauls - but also in doing so proved to themselves that they have the fight within themselves to achieve, on and off the golf course. Team members will now prepare for the MIAA Individual Tournament and for the final match of the season against Mt. St. Joe on May 7th.

Final Score: Boys' Latin: 4.5 / St. Paul's 16.5

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Boys' Latin vs John Carroll
April 26, 2007

When Kevin Foreman met his team on the practice green at Suburban Country Club yesterday afternoon, his face flushed pale in its complexion and voice gravely from throat irritation, he greeted his coaches with a wry smile and the statement “I’m not 100%, but I’m ready.”

The Laker Sophomore had been sidelined with illness throughout the week – and had bore the burden of missing matches against both Calvert Hall and Loyola. His absence, as well as that of other teammates hampered by sickness, had challenged Boys’ Latin this week in its ability to readjust the line-up for competition.

The previous day had found Senior Ian Obligin inspiring the Team with his willingness to compete while ill – a “play hurt” mentality that deepened the endearment between himself and a team that already saw him as a leader. Even earlier in the week it was Freshman, A.J. Billig who took to the course with aches and pains, while also anchoring the respect of his teammates. Today, it was Kevin Foreman’s turn to lift his teammates with inspiration. And do so he did, in classic fashion. Kevin walked the fairways with a wheeze in his breath and with a plodding pace that appeared to take more energy out of him with each step. But his hat was pulled low and his eyes were fixed forward. And when Kevin Foreman won his match’s front half, the coaches found themselves moved by the strength and character inherent to the effort that produced the victory.

With determination buoyed by their teammate’s inspirational attitude, the Lakers went on to stage one of their best performances of the season.

Junior Patrick Hohman won each of the first six holes, to close his opponent out and win the match’s first half. Hohman then went on to win the back half and the total match, while also collecting the Team Point with partner, Ben Whitman. In a personal-best for the season, Hohman shot one-over-par for the day – and secured some much needed points early for the Lakers.

Freshman, Ben Whitman also won the front, back and total matches for the day – and also did so while shooting one-over-par for the day. Whitman continues his drastic improvement for the season – reflective of a ten stroke drop in scoring average for the year.

Sophomore Gates Blair rallied from two-down with two to play, and won each of the front half’s final two holes en route to securing a vital half point for the Lakers. Blair demonstrated grace under pressure during those final two holes – reflective of his maturity as a competitor, and his growing ability as a player.

Not to be outdone, Freshman Brenden Schwartz rallied from three-down with three to play, and won each of the front half’s final three holes. In this achievement, Schwartz halved the match’s front side and secured an extremely-important half point for Boys’ Latin. Schwartz went on to battle through the match’s second half – and split the outcome with his competitor, notching a total of one and a half points for the Lakers. After the round, the coaches agreed that Schwartz’s comeback on the front half of the match was unprecedented and ranks as one of the finest come-from-behind victories in Laker Golf history.

In the end, Boys’ Latin secured their third victory of the season – and defeated John Carroll in an inspirational match that found the Lakers digging deep to find substance and means in the face of sickness and adversity.

As Kevin Foreman might have said, “We weren’t 100%...but we were ready.”

Final Score: Boys’ Latin: 12 / John Carroll: 9

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Boys' Latin vs Loyola
April 25, 2007

Continuing with their struggle against illness, the Lakers faced off against Loyola on Wednesday, April 25th. With half the team sick and unable to participate, the coaching staff believed that simply fielding a full squad of 6 players would prove to be a challenge in and of itself. A few minuntes before gametime however, Laker Senior Ian Obligin hobbled onto the course - his golf clubs flung over his shoulder and his pockets stuffed with medication and tissues. "I'm here Coach," he said in a raspy, hoarse voice beleaguered by days of illness, "Let's go get 'em."

Ian's presence served as inspiration to his teammates - an indication of staunch willpower and unwavering focus. It lifted the spirits of his fellow peers and reinforced the notion that the Lakers, however strained by the impacts of poor health, had no plans of raising the flag of surrender.

The results of the ensuing match found Boys' Latin on the unfortunate side of the day's final score. However, along with this came a increase in self-belief, an improved understanding of group perseverance, and an even deeper desire to taste victory yet again in the upcoming matches.

"Today's loss only makes me want tomorrow's win that much more," said Sophomore Gates Blair, "The past two days have shown me that we really do have a united team - and that inspires me to work harder in order to win in future matches." Wise words from one of the Team's young leaders.

Beyond Ian Obligin, additional notable mention goes to Brenden Schwartz and Ben Whitman.

The Freshman Schwartz, found himself playing in the #4 slot - two positions ahead of his regular position; and proceeded to halve the match's front side. In doing so, he secured a half point for the Lakers en route to once again proving to himself and the Team that he is ready for competitive golf. Schwartz continues to impress his teammates with his ability to play within himself in order to achieve - an trait that will serve him well on and off the golf course in the time ahead.

Whitman, also a Freshman, repositioned his mentality midway through the match in order to turn the tide on his opponent. Having lost 5 of the first 6 holes, Whitman's confidence had fallen and he was facing early elimination on the total match. However, he chose to lift himself up and rededicate himself in the holes that remained. With this new reconstruction of mentality, Whitman won the match's second half and secured the only full point of the day for the Lakers.

In due time, team members will return to health and find themselves back in true form. In the meantime, they continue to face their opponents as well as inclement weather, while also balancing sickness and physical weakness. The coaching staff is proud of the resilience and dedication to achievement displayed by the varsity squad - and remains confident that in its discipline and its comraderie, the Laker Golf Team has its greatest vehicles for achievement.

Final Score: Boys' Latin: 1.5 / Loyola 19.5

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Boys' Latin vs Calvert Hall
April 24, 2007

Beset by significant misfortune, the Lakers found half the Varsity Squad overcome by illness on Tuesday - forcing a third of the Team to miss the match altogether. With multiple team members removed from the match and just as many competiting while also fighting sickness, the Lakers faced off against Calvert Hall with as much grit and pride as could be produced given the circumstances.

Deserving of mention are the efforts of A.J. Billig, who fought his way through his match while also managing congestion, headache, and physical weakness. His team-first mentality went a long way in endearing himself to his peers - and reinforced A.J. as a selfless leader within the ranks of the Laker Golf Team.

As well, Patrick Hohman battled his way to securing 2.5 points for the Lakers - and in doing so, combined with Ben Whitman to secure a half point within the better-ball team match. Patrick's course-management was sensible with periodic points of aggression - and proved to be the perfect combination of intention for the Laker Junior.

Brenden Schwartz, competiting in his third match of the season posted a personal-best 46 on the front nine of his match. Schwartz, a Freshman, continues to show promise for the time ahead - and the Lakers remain confident that the future remains bright for this young stand-out.

Sam Dunbar competed in his first match and produced a respectable showing. The Team remains proud of Sam for his dedication and overall positive attitude.

As sickness is seldom cured overnight, the remainder of the Team's longest week appears to be paved with ongoing challenge - as team members continue the slow road to physical wellness. In the meantime, the Team's remaining members have rallied to show their dedication to their cause and the belief in their own abilities.

The Coaches remain confident that given the proper posture of inspiration, the Lakers can overcome any obstacle - and continue to be positive regarding the week's remaining match-ups.

Final Score: Boys' Latin: 4.5 / Calvert Hall: 16.5

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Boys' Latin vs Archbishop Spalding
April 19, 2007

Boys' Latin traveled to Chartwell Country Club to face Archbishop Spalding on April 19th. The afternoon found the Lakers carried by the momentum of their recent win over Archbishop Curley one day prior.

The day produced respectable showings from many Laker Team members. Equivalent scores of 75 from Patrick Hohman, 77 from Ben Whitman, 82 from Gates Blair and 86 from A.J. Billig were posted on Chartwell's challenging layout - solid numbers from players who had never seen the course previously.

Archbishop Spalding assumed control of their home course advantage, however - and handed the Lakers their 4th loss of the season. In doing so however, they made a point to communicate their respect for the progress of the Boys' Latin Golf Team. "It's remarkable what's been done with the BL program over the past few years," Spalding Head Coach Pete Van Zandt told the Laker Coaching Staff, "Your boys are better presented, better teammates, better gentlemen, and oh by the way, better players." He continued to compliment the Laker Golf Program and its progress within the conference - citing additional positive impressions in talent, conduct and overall appearance. The compliments were relayed to the Team later in the day - and carried with them the weight of reassurance in the Lakers quest for success.

Traveling back from Chartwell Country Club, the team engaged in conversation about the day's experience - discussing points of strength as well as areas of improvement. Consensus found the Lakers agreeing that for the first time all season...they felt like a team. Each member knew and understood his role. Each member recognized his place on the squad - and worked to improve the Team's progress by doing his own personal best within his allocated space. Team members rooted for each other, praised each other, and encouraged each other. The Coaching staff observed this unity and recognized it as the season's most affirming and potentially most important achievement. "With this type of bond in place," Coach Euker told the Team, "there's nothing you can't accomplish."

In light of this newfound strength, Boys' Latin remains committed to their objectives and heads into next week prepared for the four matches that await them. There appears to be little doubting the Team's unified desire to achieve - and the days ahead continue to offer promise for the Lakers.

Final Score: Boys' Latin: 2.5 / Archbishop Spalding: 18.5

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Boys' Latin vs Archbishop Curley
April 18, 2007

The Lakers played host to Archbishop Curley on Wednesday, April 18th. In a match contested over the links of Suburban Country Club, the Lakers defeated the Friars in a come-from-behind victory that notched the Team's second victory of the season.

Following the completion of the match's first half, the Lakers found themselves trailing by a full point. Rather than focus on their unfortunate position, Boys' Latin instead re-anchored themselves in purpose and battled their way back into contention - before finally overcoming their opponents late in the match's second half.

Notable performances for the day included:

AJ Billig - who in playing to his strengths and remaining focused on his course management, overtook his opponent in all point categories. The Laker Freshman swept all three points and assisted greatly in anchoring victory for Boys' Latin. With newfound comfort in his driver, AJ continued his assault from the tee, hole after hole at Suburban Country Club.

Gates Blair - who collected two and a half points by managing both his swing and his mind with equal efficiency throughout the afternoon. With a one-up lead on both the second half and the total match, Gates stood on the par five twelvth hole needing to guard his lead in order to secure victory. Undaunted, he faced the par five twelfth hole with ease - executing three solid shots en route to recording a par - and in doing so, notched his win accordingly.

Ben Whitman - who, for the second time in as many days, rerouted himself following a string of lost holes in order to refocus and overtake his opponent. Having lost the first half of the match, Ben seemed destined to continue struggling in the match's second half. Ben however, had different plans. His focused renewed and his purpose reaffirmed, he proceeded to play the remaining holes at even par - and in the end secured two points by winning the second half and the total match.

Brenden Schwartz - who, playing in his first match, secured two and a half points for Boys' Latin. The Laker Freshman brings a dogged focus and calm demeanor to the Team that has been well recevied by teammates and proved to be frustrating by the competition. In closing out his opponent on the eleventh hole - thereby securing victory on the back half and the total match - Brenden secured the final points required for a Laker win over Archbishop Curley. In what was quite possibly the greatest first-ever performance from a Laker Golf Team Member, Brenden Schwartz proved to his peers, and more importantly to himself, that he has what it takes to compete in the M.I.A.A.

The Lakers travel to Chartwell Country Club in Severna Park on April 19th to face off against Archbishop Spalding. With momentum carried forward from their victory over the Friars, the Lakers appear well-poised for the time ahead - and remain resolute in their intention to continue their climb up the Conference rankings.

Final Score: Boys' Latin: 12 / Archbishop Curley: 9

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Boys' Latin vs Gilman
April 10, 2007

The Lakers traveled to Elkridge Golf & Hunt Club on Tuesday, April 10th in order to square-off against perennial conference stalwart, Gilman. Boys' Latin arrived with the taste of victory still fresh from their recent win over Saint Mary's - and hoped to maintain momentum heading into the arena of battle against Gilman.

Alas, such hopes were pressed thin by day's end; and the Greyhouds of Gilman secured all but one point against the Lakers. However, the day was not without achievement for Boys' Latin - as the team notched another competitive experience in their belt; and will move forward in the season with an increased knowledge base yielded from recent tournament pressure.

Notable mention is due to Laker, Mitchell Edison - who competed in his first match. Edison, a Varsity Team Member for 3 years, had a respectible showing against his competitior, Tyler Ebeling. In the end, though his match would end in defeat, Edison found solace in recognizing his accomplishment of making the starting squad - in a match against one of the conference's toughest teams, nonetheless. Both The Golf Team and The School remain proud of Mitchell Edison, not only for his disciplines of success, but also for his goodheartedness and positive mentality.

The weeks ahead will find the Lakers playing 4 straight matches followed by 3 straight matches - a time period that will no doubt be rugged and tiring for team members. However, this team remains strong in their focus and firm in the resolve. In such light, they do not appear willing to surrender nor do they seem ready to stop their march forward. It is in this intention that the Lakers have rooted their greatest asset - one that will no doubt serve them well in the days to come.

Final Score: Boys' Latin: 1 / Gilman: 20

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Boys' Latin vs St. Mary's
April 4, 2007

Following a two hour bus ride, the Lakers arrived to Old South Country Club seemingly well prepared to challenge conference rival, Saint Mary's. In light of their strong showing against Saints Peter & Paul last week, the Boys' Latin squad found new confidence in their games and fresh determination in their collective spirit. Their ambition reginerated and their purpose newly anchored, the Lakers stood ready to give their best against a team that had upset them in a devastating loss the year prior.

That focus appeared to drain from the Lakers through the first six holes, however - and Boys' Latin found themselves trailing Saint Mary's 2-4 at the match's midway point. As the first half of a match tends to set the pace for the remainder of the day, the Lakers found themselves in need of a comeback in order to inject new life into the day's competition.

And come back they did - in classic fashion.

With stern focus and dogged discipline the Lakers proceeded to grind their way back into contention. One by one they bore down, firm in their resolve to turn the tide on Saint Mary's. Recalling lessons learned in countless hours of practice, each team member put trust in their swing, their strategy and their ability - postured in the belief that in giving their best they could not fail.

With their focus reestablished, the Lakers did indeed capture the momentum in the match's second half - and in doing so, fueled a come-from-behind victory that thwarted Saint Mary's efforts to upset them for a second time in as many years.

At day's end, members of the Boys' Latin Golf Team removed their hats and shook hands with their opposition after having secured their first victory of the season.

The day provided essential fuel for the team's fire - and the Lakers remain resolute in their focus for the time ahead. Victory's taste having invigorated their spirit, Boys' Latin appears as hungry as ever for achievement.

Final Score: Boys' Latin: 11.5 / Saint Mary's: 9.

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Boys' Latin vs Sts. Peter & Paul
March 29, 2007

The Lakers played host to Saints Peter & Paul yesterday for the first match of the 2007 Season. Contested over the links of Suburban Country Club, the battle found Boys’ Latin opposite one of the Conference’s most formidable squads.

Assuming a posture of presumption, Saints Peter & Paul may have believed Boys’ Latin to be a weak opponent – one whom they would have little challenge defeating. However, having prepared for this match for some time, Boys’ Latin arrived ready to compete. Their eyes focused and their attitude stern, the Lakers began an afternoon of dogged competition that found them going the distance with the highly-touted squad of Saints Peter & Paul. On multiple occasions, the opposition shook their heads and furled their brows as one Laker after another refused to ease in their resolve or falter in their discipline.

Laker Junior Co-Captain Gates Blair found himself facing off against a peer member of his home course – a peer who has been the Junior Club Champion three years running and who has established himself as one of the Middle Atlantic’s top junior players. One year ago Gates Blair was shooting scores upwards of 120 and now, after twelve months of work, dedication, perseverance and training, he had dropped over 40 shots from his scoring average. This unprecedented improvement found him playing high in the Laker line-up and shaking hands pre-match with his opponent – the Junior Champion of his home course. Gates was not swayed by intimidation, however; and he put up a fight that was both admirable and inspiring. At the end of the day, they shook hands again – however this time with mutual admiration. Though victory would elude him, Gates Blair had proven himself a worthy opponent and a gritty competitor – and had secured the judgment of his junior champion peer as being a golfer of heightened ability.

Laker Team Member Ian Obligin faced-off against a talented member of the Saints Peter & Paul Squad – one who negotiated the layout of Suburban Country Club with a controlled fade and a deft short-game. The first hole at Suburban, a mid-length par four, found most players swinging driver or three-wood from the teeing ground. Ian’s opponent was no exception; and he executed his drive with precision, finding the right edge of the fairway and leaving himself a mid-to-short iron for his approach. In such a situation, it would not have been difficult for Ian to be rattled from his game plan – one which typically finds him favoring accuracy over distance. But Ian was undaunted and remained focused on his plan for success. When he pulled a four iron from his bag and began his pre-shot routine, a number of whispers could be heard amongst the gallery (in addition to a number of glances directed toward the coaches). “What’s he doing?” they asked, “Why is he hitting an iron?” “Doesn’t he see where his opponent is?” “This doesn’t make sense.” Yet, at the hole’s completion, Ian had made par – his opponent, bogie. A boring par beats an exciting bogie every time; and no member of the Laker squad understands that more than Ian Obligin.

Freshman Ben Whitman, in his first match as a Laker, played with the ability, focus, and strategy of someone years his elder – en route to a full sweep of his opponent. His course management reflected maturity and his swing aligned with mid-season form. Since the beginning of the season, he has cut nearly 8 strokes from his scoring average – and appears poised to continue in his development in the days ahead.

In the end, Saints Peter and Paul completed a full sweep of points in five of six matches. As is often the case however, the final score is not reflective of the true events of the day. Saints Peter & Paul may have found Boys’ Latin to be a more challenging opponent than initial presumption would have dictated. By having their best Opening Day showing in years, the Lakers went the distance with one of the MIAA’s preeminent contenders. In doing so, Boys’ Latin anchored new understanding and insight relative to their growth, their objectives and their disciplines. The Lakers remain staunch in their resolve to be conference contenders in 2007, and are unshaken in their focus for the time ahead.

Final Score: Saints Peter & Paul 17.5 / Boys' Latin 3.5