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The 2010 Spring Break Trip - The Lakers at Kiawah Island
March 14-17, 2010
As the sun rose above 822 West Lake Avenue, cars carrying members of the Boys' Latin Golf team arrived one by one to the Upper School. The sounds of trunks opening and closing echoed across the macadam as the hugs and instructions from parents were greeted by the dozen early-risers with equal parts drifting nod and distant gaze. The twelve participating players wiped their eyes and shouldered their luggage before stepping upon a motor coach which sat idle in anticipation of the twelve hour journey ahead.
As the coaches welcomed the players aboard, the bus shifted into gear. "See you later, Baltimore," someone uttered while staring out of the window, "Ocean Course, here we come."
The Boys' Latin Golf Team was off to Kiawah Island - home of the Ocean Course. Ranked as one of the country's premiere venues, the Ocean Course is rated the 25th best golf course in the country, and the "Toughest Golf Course in America" by Golf Digest. It has hosted a number of major championships since its unveiling in 1991 - famously including that year's Ryder Cup Matches, dubbed "The War by the Shore" for the ferocity of both the competition and the course layout.
Upon arrival at Kiawah, the Team checked into their house - a five-thousand square foot, ocean-front beach house. Complete with multiple decks, fireplace, an elevator, spacious kitchen, and five bedrooms, the accommodations were enough to make every member of the squad pause with reverence. Players immediately drifted to the home's back deck - which was lined with adirondack chairs over-looking the ocean. The deck would become a common gathering place for players - who shared stories and reflections in the evening hours against the backdrop of crashing waves.
Over the couse of the two days that followed their arrival, the Lakers would tackle 72 holes of golf. Two rounds played on the famed Ocean Course - and two rounds completed on sister courses Osprey Point and Cougar Point. The weather proved to be magnificent - boasting temperatures of 60-65 degrees and wind speeds of 10-15 miles per hour.
The Lakers competed in two tournament competitions during their time at Kiawah. One was a two day MIAA-style championship, with the top three point leaders awarded prizes. The other was a two-day Ryder Cup format - with individual singles matches slated alongside a better ball of partners competition. Prizes were awarded to the winning team members accordingly. Thus, both days produced a competitive, yet healthy and engaging dynamic for participants.
The second evening found the team attending a private dinner at Tamaso Restaurant on the Island. With the Chef's special preparation of a pre-fixe three-course menu for the boys, players enjoyed a masterful culinary experience within an authentic arena of fellowship.
As is often the case with Team travel, the Lakers found themselves within pockets of experience that seemed too unlikely to mirror coincidence:
One morning, as the Lakers stepped upon the dew-laden driving range at Osprey Point, the starter approached Coach Champion. "You fellas from the Boys' Latin School of Maryland?" he said. "Yes sir," the coach replied. "Well so am I," he said. "Class of 1950. Heading back for my 60th reunion this Summer." Following the discussion, the gentleman was introduced to all of the Team members, and given a BL Golf Team hat to wear with pride. The gentleman watched all of the boys tee off, and checked on them periodically throughout the round. As he waved goodbye to the Team later that morning, the coaches shared a moment of appreciation for the ever-broadening community associated with the golf program.
After their first round on the Ocean Course, as the Lakers rested on the Clubhouse porch while awaiting the shuttle to return them to the house, a gentleman and his wife passed by. Pausing momentarily, he turned to boys, tilted his head slightly, and furled his brow. "Boys' Latin?" he said, "from Baltimore?" "Yes sir," many of the players responded. "Welcome to Kiawah, gentlemen," he said "I'm a Loyola man, myself. But I hope you have a great time here."
It is worth noting that during the second and final round completed on the Ocean Course, the foursome of Drew White, Neill Peck, Ben Whitman and Will Guy played golf course at its tips - a monsterous stretch of terrain covering more than eight-thousand yards. Playing against a fifteen mile-per-hour wind , the course invariably played longer than it read - a reality that was both unfathomable and quite real. To his credit, Ben Whitman played one of his life's finest rounds - and completed his challenge in no more than eighty-two strokes - a typical course equivalent of roughly sixty-eight.
Not to be outdone, many other remarkable shots were struck throughout the team's time at Kiawah. Notable was the approach shot struck by Nico Kanaras on a back nine par-five at Osprey Point. Having drawn his drive into the left rough, Kanaras faced a 230 yard approach shot to a green tucked left of his immediate target line. Undaunted, he struck his three wood with perfection - and as the shot bent around the fairway line, it curved toward the flagstick, landed, rolled, and came to rest within eight feet of the hole. Kanaras would make birdie and record one his finest holes to date as a Laker.
Neill Peck's drive on a par four at the Ocean Course drifted right after its apex; and after landing on dry land, trickled toward and invariably into a water hazard. Partially submerged in the water, it peeked out of the hazard with just enough dry cover to elicit temptation - which was enough encouragement for Peck to decide that the ball, in its then-current state, would be played. Donning his rain gear and gripping his club firmly, Peck waded into the swampy hazard and addressed his ball. His swing was steep and strong - and executed with perfection. With pond water showering him from the force of his blast, he lifted his eyes to see the ball motivating forward, having been lifted from the hazard. Peck would compete the hole and record his score - knowing that he was firm in the face of challenge, and did not waver when standing before a murky and opaque circumstance.
More examples of exceptional shot-making exist - too many in fact for this article's allotted pages. Suffice it to say that from dawn to dusk, across the fairways of Kiawah Island, countless shots were stuck against picturesque horizon - delivered by the hands of maroon and white gentlemen.
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The 2009 MIAA Blue & White Challenge
May 23-24, 2009
Boys' Latin joined conference schools Calvert Hall, Saints Peter & Paul, Archbishop Spalding, Annapolis Area Christian, The Calvert School, Pallotti, and John Carroll in the Inaugural Blue & White Challenge at Penn State University. Twenty-nine students and seven coaches made the journey from Baltimore to Happy Valley for a weekend of fun, fellowship, education and competition. The event was designed to purposefully utilize the game of golf in order to offer a glimpse into the college life-stage for participants while at the same time promote goodwill between students and coaches of associated conference schools.
Participants and Coahes gathered at The Boys' Latin School at 6:30 AM for registration and announcements before hitting the road at 7:15. A bird's-eye-view from the interstate would have shown a line of buses, vans and SUVs representative of otherwise rival schools, progressing in assembly toward their destination - Universtiy Park, Pennsylvania, where a weekend of comradarie and competition awaited them.
Participants were greeted on-campus at 10:30 AM by G. Burch Wilkes, the professor-in-chare and director of Penn State's Professional Golf Management (PGM) Program. Considered the finest such program in the United States, Penn State's PGM Program has boasted a 100% job placement rate since its inception and has placed its graduates at such esteemed facilities as Augusta National, Pebble Beach, Baltusrol, Merion, and Pine Valley. A career in the golf industry is the aspiration of may young students, and a private overview of the experience by the man-in-charge was a special treat to kick-off the weekend.
Following the meeting's conclusion, participants traveled to the Penn State Golf Courses for a complimentary lunch provided by the University. As players finished their sandwiches, they were given a favor for attending the event - a Penn State hat with MIAA personalization. Players then gathered for announcements, including pairings and an overview of the championship's format.
Teams were comprised of players from all schools. No one team was designed to boast more than one representative of any given school. The field had also been segmented by scoring average - with Individual Championship scores and personal handicaps utilized to segment the field. Pairings were therefore not only fair in composition, but also designed for engagement of partcicipants. The same players who had spent the entire season battling each other were now finding themselves assembled as partners.
To further promote fellowship while also maintaining a competitive foundation, the event format was designed to shift every nine holes. Day One offered a front-nine scramble format followed by a back-nine one-best-ball structure. Day Two found teams playing a Shamble on the front-side and utilizing a modified scoring two-best-balls-halved format on the back nine.
In support of the event, Penn State agreed to display the MIAA Blue & White Challenge Trohpy year-round in the offices of the Professional Golf Management Program. A silver cup on a marble base, the trophy bears the name of the event and would be etched with the names of the tournament's champions each year.
With the pairings announced, the formats established and the trophy on-display at the first tee, players gathered at #1 as the tee times began. Calvert Hall's Alex Church struck the Championship's first shot - a towering drive that found the fairway's left side and an inviting angle to the flagstick. His partners in Team Pine Valley, AJ Billig of Boys' Latin and Niki Muma of Annapolis Area Christian, would combine to fire a first-round sixty-eight on day-one.
Their efforts would be bested by a pair of sixty-sevens, however - notched by the Pinehurst Team of Ben Whitman (Boys' Latin), Evan Cain (Calvert Hall) and Ryan Slenk (Annapolis Area Christian) and the Olympic Team of Trey Proifili (John Carroll), Mike Ercolino (Calvert Hall), and Jeff Mellin (Archbishop Spalding).
But the story of day-one was the remarkable play of Team Oakmont and its captain, Pallotti's Jason Clatworthy. Paired with the sweet-swings of Archbishop Spalding's Alex Eaker, Danny Murphy of Boys' Latin, and Calvert Hall's Sean Cavanaugh, Clatworthy stormed the Blue Course with force and fired a seven-under-par sixty-five on his own ball. No strangers to excellence on the links themselves, Clatworthy's partners aided in dropping a few birdies of their own, and when the dust had settled, the team's score of sixty-three found them the leaders in the clubhouse...by four shots.
After the last putt was holed, players boarded their buses and traveled to Prospector's Rib Company for dinner. A private room had been reserved and a fixed-menu experience awaited. Players had their choice of steak, chicken, ribs or pasta - and were also treated to salad, baked potato, drinks, and cheescake. After an afternoon of engagement and competition, the dinner produced more than a few appreciative and knowing smiles from the coaches - who took pause to watch as participants began to ignore school colors and instead focus on new-found roots of friendship as impetus for discussion and good-fun.
After dinner, the caravan moved to Toftrees Resort. Room assignments were announced at dinner and room keys distributed accordingly. After a long day of travel, golf, learning, and eating, naray a light had been turned off before the eyes had been closed. As one player said the next morning "the only thing that felt better than my putter yesterday, was the pillow under my head last night."
An early rise-and-shine greeted players on Sunday. Toftrees had prepared a special country-style breakfast boasting pastries, eggs, sausage, bacon, potatos, and juices. The aroma of coffee and the sounds of steel against china mixed with stories of the prior day's events as players energized for the upcoming second round.
Tee times began shortly-thereafter, and University Director of Golf Joe Hughes once again welcomed all players to the Penn State Golf Courses. Range balls were provided for warm-up and an announcement of lunch's availability at the turn was made. Players then moved to the first tee once again and announcements were made prior to the day's first shot being struck.
In an afternoon that found all teams attempting to catch the tournament leaders, a number of remarkable shots were executed.
Niki Muma of Annapolis Area Christian stood on the par three sixteenth and eyed the flagstick one-hundred-eighty yards away. Guaging the slope and wind accordingly, Muma clubbed-down and struck a forceful mid-iron that never left the flagstick. Landing short of the hole it hopped forward, struck the pin, and careened off the corner of the cup before coming to rest a few feet away. As his teammates raised their arms and widened their eyes, Niki Muma offered only a slight grin and a knowing wink.
On the seventeenth, a three-hundred-thirty yard dogleg-left par four with trees and bunkers guarding the green, Calvert Hall's Casey Taylor placed his tee in the ground with purpose. He had been asked by a coach a few minutes earlier how he was feeling, and had replied "Pretty tired, actually." The coached had asked him if he still had a few big swings left in him. A revived Taylor responded with renewed focus "Absolutely!" The coach offered a line to the green's front edge - saying that although the risk was evident, if it were struck properly, his ball might find itself on the front fringe. "Got it" Taylor said. A competitive stare erupted from behind his trademark glasses, and as his tee entered the grass and dirt, a near definitive sense of what was to come befell associated on-lookers. Seconds later, the wide-stanced full-force lash of the Calvert Hall top seed produced a shot that exploded toward the aforementioned target line - and as the blast-like recoil of his swing found the club held before him, Casey Taylor watched as his ball fell on the green's front fringe. As he glanced at the coach, he raised his eyebrows and exited the tee box. Two shots later, he had birdied the hole.
As his partners continued their fine play, Danny Murphy of Boys' Latin found himself in a track of consistency. Fairway after fairway welcomed the tee shots of the Boys' Latin Laker. Drive after drive was struck with sizable accuracy and ball-control. At day's end, Murphy would record total driving perfection - fourteen fairways hit, zero missed. His resulting back nine score of thirty-nine would be his personal best to-date; and aid sizably in his team's day two round of sixty-seven.
Round Two would find Team Oakmont expanding on its lead from Day One - and its total score of one-hundred-thirty anchored its place as the championship's victors for 2009. Jason Clatworthy, Alex Eaker, Sean Cavanaugh and Danny Murphy had won the inaugural event and posed for photos alongside the trophy - smiles abounding, pride apparent.
As the post-tournament ceremony closed and final announcements were made, players began shaking hands and sharing contact information. The 2009 MIAA Blue & White Challenge had been completed. And though it was understood that a weekend was closing, it was equally apparent that some relationships had just begun. As coaches recognized this reality, they shared their appreciation for the efforts to promote inter-school engagement and fellowship. Because at the end of the day, though golf gives us much in the way of competitiveness, its greatest provisions are born from the friendships it serves.
Congratulations to the participants in the 2009 MIAA Blue & White Challenge:
Oakmont: 63/67 = 130
Jason Clatworthy
Alex Eaker
Danny Murphy
Sean Cavanaugh
Pinehurst: 67/70 = 137
Ben Whitman
Evan Cain
Ryan Slenk
Pine Valley: 68/71 = 139
Alex Church
A.J. Billig
Niki Muma
Olympic: 67/72 = 139
Trey Proifili
Mike Ercolino
Jeff Mellin
Pebble Beach: 75/68 = 143
Max Farrington
Robbie Whitman
Zach Taylor
Kendall Newman
Saucon Valley: 72/72 = 144
Mike Devlin
Will Ellis
Stephen Sample
Augusta: 70/75 = 145
Casey Taylor
Matt Sherman
Jake Miller
Bethpage: 74/71 = 145
Eryk Bapisteller
Ben Levin
Anthony LaDonna
Merion: 69/77 = 146
Brian Petrosky
Chris Pascoe
Ryan Troutman
2009 Spring Break Trip Recap - The Lakers at La Quinta
In what was easily their most remarkable Spring Break Trip to date, the Lakers traveled to La Quinta Resort & Spa in Palm Springs, California for an over-the-top experience anchored in fun, sun and of course, golf.
Eleven team members rendezvoused with Coaches Champion, Euker, Vaughn and Schreck at Baltimore Washington International Airport early Saturday morning, March 14th; and boarded United Airlines Flight 905 with eager expectations for the days ahead. Traveling in uniform, the fifteenman collection of maroon-and-khaki-clad linksters moved through airport check-in, security and boarding while in receipt of numerous compliments relating to their collective demeanor and gentlemanly conduct. So impressed were the staff members at United Airlines, that they waived the $40 per person charge for baggage check – a $440 savings that would permit the Lakers to increase their grocery budget and to receive souvenirs from their time at the La Quinta golf courses.
The Team’s air travel journey included a connection in Chicago – at which time an interesting encounter with a fellow traveler made an impact that would bear ongoing fruit for the Lakers throughout their time at La Quinta. While boarding the flight that would take them from Chicago to Palm Springs, Coach Champion was stopped by a gentleman sitting in first class. “You’re a high school golf team, aren’t you?” the man said. “Yes, sir” Coach Champion replied. “Are you heading to La Quinta?” the man continued. “Yes we are, actually,” Coach responded, intrigued. “That’s what I thought. You’re the Latin Team…or something like that…is that right?” “Yes. That’s us. The Boys’ Latin Golf Team,” Coach Champion responded while extending his hand and introducing himself. Further discussion revealed that the gentleman was a vice president of Pyramid Asset Management – the parent company that retains ownership of La Quinta Resort (and other golf properties, including Doral Resort in Florida). “La Quinta is my property,” the man said – a comment that found Coach Champion undeniably wide-eyed. “I saw on the resort itinerary that you were scheduled to be our guests this week. I want you to know that I think what your program is doing is wonderful. I want to support your work; and I’d like to do something special to make sure that your team has a memorable experience.” He requested and received a copy of the team’s itinerary from Coach Champion; and following its review while in-flight, passed along some generous hospitality to an already amazed head golf coach. “I reviewed your schedule; and can see you’ve planned out a great experience for your boys. I made a call to our director of golf operations and asked him to take care of you on a few things. He knows you are slated to have a team dinner tonight at the Adobe Grille and is planning to make a special trip out to see you personally. You can expect some hospitality from him. He’s the best director that we have. Have a great time. Keep up the good work. Here’s my business card. If you ever return to La Quinta, let me know.” And with that, the gentleman was gone.
The Lakers, now in receipt of their luggage, boarded three passenger vans for shuttle to the resort. Thirty minutes later, they were stepping foot onto the property – a majestic destination without parallel. The sight of Palm Trees, the scent of citrus, and the blended sounds of laughter and calypso music greeted the Team as they checked-in and made their way to their suite – a 900 square foot three-bedroom chateau with private patios and balconies, a pool and hot tub, multiple fireplaces, and a kitchen. As Coaches Vaughn and Euker departed for the grocery store in order to stock-up on food for the days ahead, the rest of the Team remained behind and enjoyed a relaxing afternoon of swimming and socializing.
Later that evening, the Lakers would don khakis and dress shirts before heading to The Adobe Grill, a restaurant on resort property, for a special Team Dinner. The Adobe Culinary Team had prepared a fixed menu for the Lakers; and reserved a special outdoor table near the live jazz band and patio fire pits. As the Team witnessed the setting sun disappear behind the mountains, glasses were lifted as Coach Champion toasted the Team’s unity, discipline and integrity. “Here’s to who you are, individually and collectively. Here’s to where you’ve been,; and to where you are going. Here’s to safe travels and to memorable experiences. No matter where we find ourselves – be it the Gelston Athletic Center or the golf courses of Palm Springs – it is an honor to stand with you as your coach. Cheers.”
Somewhere between the home-made guacamole prepared table-side and the specially-prepared fajitas, a gentlemen approached the Team’s table and opened dialogue with a remarkable question. “What if I said ‘Go Calvert Hall’ at this table? Or ‘Let’s go Dons?’ Or maybe ‘Fight on Archbishop Curley?’… “Booo!" The Team responded, all smiles – and yet anchored in intrigue by the stranger's grasp on rival schools. The man was La Quinta’s director of golf – and had, as promised, gone out of his way to meet in-person with the Boys’ Latin Golf Team. He welcomed the Lakers and wished them well during their stay, gave an overview of the PGA Tour events and associated memorable moments recorded across the fairways and greens of La Quinta, and then told the Team that he had planned something special for them. “I’ve arranged for you to participate in a clinic with a Jim McLean School Instructor while you are with us. It will take place between your rounds on Monday; and I’m sure you will enjoy it. And it’s on the house. No charge. We Maryland boys have to stick together. You see, I’m from Baltimore. I went to Archbishop Curley.” In a true small world experience, La Quinta’s director of golf had attended one of Boys’ Latin’s rival high schools – one that the Lakers would face-off against in no less than three weeks. “I guess I have to waive my policy of not assisting conference rivals.” He said smiling. “You fellas enjoy your time as our guests. I’ve arranged for discounts at our golf course restaurants and for my retail staff to accommodate your (modest) favor and prize budget. It’s our pleasure to help. Hit ‘em straight.” He waived as he turned his back and walked away from the table. And with that, like his boss before him, he was gone.
After dinner, the Team returned to the suite, prepared sandwiches for the following day’s lunch, and retired to their bedrooms for a good night’s sleep on a full stomach. Each room boasted a private fireplace – and the Lakers nodded off to the flames and crackle of dancing light and warmth.
5:30 AM arrived quickly for Boys’ Latin. Team members rose early, ate breakfast, showered and dressed in uniform before heading off to the Dunes Course under the light of a full moon. As they approached the rolling terrain of the well-manicured course, multiple sighs and wide-eyed stares were yielded from the course’s first impression. Fog was lifting from the landscape as the sun first shown above the mountains. Dancing across the fairways were the water streams from fairway sprinklers – and dew reflected prisms of light on the yet-untouched greens of the links-land. The Lakers had arrived. And golf awaited.
Junior Ben Whitman struck the day’s first shot – a towering draw that found the fairway’s left side. Ten other team members would follow his lead as the sun rose and the cool air lifted – each with equal excitement for the opportunity to experience such a remarkable golf course.
The Team quickly came to understand the apropos nature of the Dunes Course title. Moguls abounded across ever-undulating fairways. Through eighteen holes of meandering peaks and valleys, the Dunes Course boasted an arduous challenge for players. The Lakers enjoyed the course, and appreciated its ever-present marriage of aesthetics and difficulty. Shadow Program Member Bennett Wisner would record the low round at the Dunes Course – notching a more-than-respectable 78.
As the last group replaced the flag on the 18th hole, Coaches called a shuttle for transportation to the PGA West Stadium Course – site of the PGA Tour Qualifying School, The Skins Game, The Bob Hope Chrysler Classic…and the 2nd Round of the Laker Golf Team Spring Break Trip.
Team members were excited to tackle the famous layout. The Stadium Course, a Pete Dye design, remains famous for, among other things, its 17th hole – a down-hill, par three, island green monster that is equal parts beauty and terror. The surrounding holes offer minimal recluse – and the result is a course rating and slope that registers 76.1 and 150 respectably.
The team enjoyed the course – and notched numerous highlights, including Nico Kanaras very first birdie and Bennett Wisner’s two on the aforementioned 17th. Sam Huber and Brenden Schwartz both hit the 17th green with well-struck shots. Armed with cameras, Coaches Vaughn and Champion took numerous snapshots during the round – and captured many photos of Laker swings and smiles.
The sun had not yet begun to set as the final group putted out on the 18th green – which meant that more golf could be played. With the blessing of the Stadium Course golf staff, the Lakers returned to the first tee and proceeded to compete in an enjoyable 7-hole scramble-format tournament before returning to the clubhouse as darkness crept closer. Twelve and a half hours after the first tee was placed in the ground, the Lakers had completed 43 holes and were boarding a shuttle to return to their suite for a well-earned dinner of pizza and ice cream.
That evening, Coaches Champion and Vaughn hosted a swing development session in the living room. Connecting the Team camera to the living room television, the Coaches were able to display the photos and video that had been taken throughout the day. One by one, each player’s swing was displayed on the screen, and each analyzed for areas of strength and designated points of improvement. When the session concluded, team members were dismissed for bed – and nary a head had touched a pillow before befalling to immediate rest.
Once again, 5:30 AM arrived rather quickly. Team members once more ate breakfast, showered, and dressed in uniform before boarding a shuttle en route to the Nicklaus Tournament Course at PGA West. The sun was rising as the first shot was struck on the course’s opening hole – and, as had been the case the prior day, a fresh dew and a cool air welcomed the morning’s golfers.
It was as the last of the groups were teeing off that another remarkable encounter took place. Standing near the cart path, the coaches were approached by two gentlemen who were next in-line to tee off. “We came all the way out here and we still can’t shake you guys,” one of them said smiling – and extended his hand to introduce himself. “We’re from Baltimore,” he said with a grin. “No way,” the coaches responded. “And we’re members at Suburban Country Club (The Team’s home course),” they continued. “No way!!” the coaches shouted, amazed. “In fact,” one of the gentlemen continued, “I’m on the committee that’s responsible for renewing the Club’s relationship with Boys’ Latin,” “Unbelievable,” the coaches replied – and engaged in a discussion with the gentlemen about the details of the Team’s travels and the components of the Spring Break Trip. They were very complimentary of the Laker Golf Program and expressed their positive impressions of the Team and its overall character. “Your boys are gentlemen, and are very well behaved,” they said. “Have a great time at La Quinta. We’ll see you when you get back. Enjoy yourselves. And keep up the good work.” And with that, you guessed it, they were gone.
Completion of the round at The Nicklaus Course would find more memorable moments recounted over post-round drinks and snacks. Kendall Newman notched his first birdie as a Laker; and Danny Murphy recorded a par in his first-ever chip-in. Sam Huber, Andrew Holmes and Sammy Dunbar made remarkable stride in their swing development following the video lesson the preceding evening. And Brenden Schwartz went the distance against Ben Whitman before defeating the Team’s #1 seed on the 17th hole.
After receiving favors of hats and ball markers, team members made their way to the facility’s short game practice area for the Jim McLean School Short Game Clinic. Led by an instructor who turned out to have mutual friends with Coach Champion, the clinic offered the Team a valuable learning experience. At its completion, the Lakers thanked the instructor before heading to the shuttle and the ensuing drive to the Mountain Course.
The Mountain Course, it was unanimously agreed by all team members and coaches, was easily one of the best golf courses all involved had ever played. Its terrain traced and was at times sharply embedded into the mountains of the country-side. Elevated tees overlooked the valley below. Blind shots were struck over rocks and cliffs. Lush fairways ran alongside boulders and stone. Another Pete Dye design, the Mountain Course was the trip’s golfing highlight.
True to form, more memories were anchored. Nico Kanaras recorded his second-ever birdie. Matt Sherman rallied from two triple bogies by draining a fifteen foot par putt on the fifth hole. And in a personal highlight, Coach Champion eagled the par-5 fourth hole after hitting a blind 5 iron 190 yards over the mountain-side to within 3 feet of the hole.
After the round, the Team returned to the first tee for a 4-hole one-club scramble tournament – and walked down their fairways of the Mountain Course once again. Returning under the light of the moon, the Lakers hoisted their bags on their shoulders and walked back to their suite – pausing periodically to pluck oranges and grapefruits from various citrus trees throughout the resort.
That evening, while dining on lasagna and garlic bread, the Lakers once again huddled in the living room for a swing development session led by the coaching staff. Development was evident in the motions of all players; and team members were affirmed in their efforts to improve their swings. Lights were out by 11:00; and eyes were quick to close in the aftermath of another twelve-hour, 40-hole day.
By the following morning, the Lakers had completed their tour-de-force of La Quinta’s finest golf courses and took pause individually and collectively to look back on the experiences of the preceding few days. Laughter was shared and high fives exchanged as team members recounted shots struck, jokes told and special moments experienced. Between reminiscences, team members packed their bags and awaited the shuttle that would take them back to the airport for their return flight to Baltimore. Their travels home found them laid-over in Denver before catching a late flight into Charm City that arrived just past midnight. Team members de-boarded the plan wearing smiles and were greeted at baggage claim by their parents. Welcomes were extended and hugs exchanged as team members received their luggage and departed for home – though not without first extended grateful handshakes to the coaches for a memorable experience.
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Matt Katula Meets with Laker Golf Team Matt Katula, Long Snapper for the Baltimore Ravens, took pause from his hectic schedule to visit the Laker Golf Team recently. Addressing a group of fifteen team members, the three year veteran spent time sharing his insight and guidance on a number of topics. Questions and discussion points were actively raised by team members through the session – and the Lakers found themselves in continued receipt of the Raven’s encouraging feedback.
“The reality of my position,” Mr. Katula mentioned, “is that you’re only given attention when you mess up.” A discussion followed this remark, which focused on the understanding that certain jobs (both in football and in life) are actively taken for granted – and rarely noticed unless a miss-step occurs. “On the field,” he continued “you have an active understanding of your role and your responsibility. Everybody has a specific job to do – and it’s their responsibility to do it to the best of their ability. Some jobs gets more attention than others. That’s fine. Because in the end, we’re all a part of the same team; and are all out to accomplish the same collective goal.” The Lakers appreciated this particular point – as it relates directly to the role of a team member who may or may not directly participate in a varsity match this season. Although this may indeed be a reality, the role of such an individual is not at all diminished. As Mr. Katula pointed out, everyone has their own responsibility – individual roles that combine to form a powerful team purpose.
Long Snapper Offers Team Members Wisdom & Encouragement
Integrity was also a point of encouragement from the Long Snapper. “Always stay true to yourself,” he stressed. “Yielding to peer pressure often means forfeiting your integrity – and in the end, that may be all you have.” This guidance rang true to team members – who often face stress relating to such realities within their current life stage.
Mr. Katula went on to discuss the disciplines of success inherent to athletics and to life in general. “It’s an uphill battle to get to the top,” he said “and an ongoing battle to stay there.” He continued by stressing the importance of self-motivation and the value of routine to efficiency and achievement. He communicated the value of focus, but cautioned team members in saying “Don’t be so narrow in your focus that you lose sight of the big picture.” This guidance rang true to the Laker Golfers, who oftentimes find themselves so intent on the end goal, that impressions of broader understanding elude them.
Mr. Katula talked about the importance of a positive parent / child relationship, and the value of encouragement in the life of a student athlete. He paused to mention how sometimes otherwise good teams can be dragged down by one or two negative players. He stressed the value of inspiring one another on and off the field. “You must raise one another up,” he said emphatically - a message that was not lost on his audience.
The Long Snapper then drew parallels between football and golf. “I have a pre-snap routine on the field – just like I have a pre-shot routine in golf. Routine is critical in football, just as it is on the golf course.” He continued, “Kicking is also very similar in its reliance on pattern and routine,” a message that was communicated to the Laker Golfers when Dave Zastidul visited the Team two years ago.
Mr. Katula ended his sixty-minute session with the Team much as he began it – by encouraging the boys to do their best at all times, and to remain firm in their individual and collective integrity. “You have a lot of opportunities ahead of you,” he remarked “If you work hard, remain positive, and stay true to your principles, it’s near impossible to fail.” The Lakers applauded their guest speaker in appreciation for his time and insight, and remain grateful for his points of encouragement and wisdom.
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Creative Lessons from a Gentleman’s Game
Team Haircut Day Proves Successful for Laker Golfers
Twelve team members met at F.X. Studios in Hunt Valley for Team Harircut Day – an event focused just as much on team building as on the importance of personal grooming. Laker Golfers ate pizza and ice cream, watched movies, and joked and laughed together over the course of the two hour session. Additionally, each team member received a personal session with an F.X. Stylist who provided a personal trim as well as grooming insight.
One of the realities of the teenage life stage is the unconditional nature of provisions. From a roof over their head to food on their table, receipt of provisions arrive without condition – as is nearly always the case within a loving household. However when transitioning into young adulthood, certain provisions began to arrive with conditions – money, employment recommendation, social standing. Various avenues offer insight into conditional provisions, i.e. part-time employment, athletics, and academics – however, understandings relative to such reality rarely comes from a point of reference other than the home. It is the goal of the Laker Golf Program to reinforce the messages communicated within the family environment – including the importance of behaving as and presenting oneself as a gentleman.
As a gentleman’s game, Golf is an excellent vehicle to communicate the message that, though having a good heart is most important, presenting oneself professionally aligns with social acceptance. In achieving such acceptance, an individual has a better platform to reach and impact the lives of others – thereby serving a purpose greater then themselves.
Professional presentation includes proper sentence structure, diction, and annunciation. It also includes color coordination of clothing, maintenance and care of pants and shirts, and an understanding of textile materials and styles. And of course, it includes personal grooming and care – from how to use a razor to how to use a comb, and many things in-between. A gentleman understands the importance of these things – and utilizes them regularly to present himself in a professional light.
At day’s end, the Lakers left F.X. Studios with new understanding of proper grooming – as well as a host of enjoyable moments from two hours spent with their peers. A better combination of experience would have been challenging to assemble. Victory at Bald Head
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The Lakers Enjoy Another Memorable Spring Break Weekend
Twelve Laker Golf Team members traveled to Bald Head Island March 13th-16th for the 2008 Spring Break Trip. Over the course of the four day excursion, participants enjoyed an unprecedented agenda of golf and fellowship.
A secluded island off the coast of Southport, Bald Head welcomed the Lakers once again for an extended weekend of team building and golf game development. Motor coach transportation was provided by A.S. Midway Trailways, and found the Lakers traveling in-style for the eight-hour journey. Team members enjoyed deluxe accommodations during their stay – and bunked in style within a six bedroom ocean-front beach house. The Golf Professional Staff at Bald Head Island was unprecedented in its generosity; and welcomed the Team with open access to its facility – including usage of the golf course, practice range, and putting green.
Thursday’s journey found the Lakers reviewing video footage of the 1991 Ryder Cup, the 2007 President’s Cup, and a 1964 Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf match between Ben Hogan & Sam Snead – footage that assisted in the Team’s understanding of match play competition. Following pit stops for lunch and for grocery purchases, the Team arrived in Southport, North Carolina and boarded the ferry for the final leg of their journey to the Island. Room assignments were announced following the team’s arrival at the house – and a Nintendo Wi Tiger Woods golf tournament closed out the evening for many team members.
Friday morning found the Lakers awaking at 6:15. Breakfast followed along with announcements relating to the day’s agenda. The Lakers were on the first tee shortly thereafter, and the first of many shots were struck by 8:00 AM. Forty holes later, Team members completed their first day of golf at Bald Head Island – before walking back to the house, roughly two miles away. That evening the coaches participated in an after-dinner panel discussion with the Team – one that found a number of important topics being reviewed and considered, including: the challenges of peer pressure, the impact of social networking sites, the pressures of facing college, the importance of proper self definition, and the value of serving a greater good. Lights were out by midnight, and team members didn’t take long to fall asleep following the day’s full agenda.
Saturday morning came quickly, and team members awoke to the sound of Coach Euker’s wake-up serenade at 7:00 AM. Breakfast followed and the day’s agenda reviewed before team members set out on the walk to the course. A two hour practice session focused on the value of short game, and included comprehensive review of putting and chipping motions with Coaches Vaughn, Euker, Schreck and Champion. Lunch followed and Laker tee times began shortly-thereafter. The team completed twenty-seven holes of golf that afternoon – with Sophomore Ben Whitman logging the low round of the weekend, an impressive one-over-par 73 (Senior Patrick Hohman had carded a more-than-respectable 77 the day prior). That evening, the team enjoyed another fine dinner at the hands of Chef/Coach Vaughn, and relaxed collectively while watching the movie “Stroke of Genius, The Bobby Jones Story.” Lights were out shortly thereafter, and the Lakers were asleep once again by midnight.
Traveling back home Sunday, the Lakers spent time in reminiscence of their Spring Break Trip experience. Shots were recalled, jokes recounted, and laughter shared. The team enjoyed a Rules of Golf video, as well as the movie “Miracle” which reviewed the underdog story of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey Team. Arriving at Boys’ Latin ahead of schedule, the Team exited the motor coach with comraderie anchored and new memories in-place. The 2008 Spring Break Trip lived up to its promise of an effective tool for individual and collective growth.
With twelve Lakers ending the weekend in deeper friendship and heightened cohesion, the coaches remained encouraged by the impact of another Bald Head Island Spring Break experience.
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Summertime Fun
Laker Golf Summer Camp Proves Successful
The 2007 Boys' Latin Golf Team Summer Camp was a success. Held July 20th-22nd at Tom Mitchell's Golf Complex in Reisterstown, the Camp was facilitated by Coaches Schreck, Euker, Vaughn and Champion; and found the Lakers spending over twelve hours emmersed in game development - including computer swing analysis, ball flight manipulation, specialty shot execution and short game fundamentals. Prizes were awarded for special contests, favors provided for all participants, and lunch provided daily. All proceeds from the 2007 Summer Camp were given to the Restricted Funds of the Laker Golf Team.
