Sports
Chemistry will be key for golf
By William Kaback '20
September 1, 2016
Tags sports
The mountainous region of Central New York is not exactly what one might call prime golf country, but that does not tamper the enthusiasm of Hamilton’s golf team. This fall, the Hamilton men’s golf team anticipates considerable success on the links as it builds upon veteran leadership with an infusion of young talent. Thanks to successful development, hard work and sustained excellence from returning players, the program is primed for a strong 2016 campaign.
Head coach Steve Stetson believes that the key to a rewarding season is “improv[ing] daily and enjoy[ing] the whole process and what we do.” The team worked tirelessly throughout the offseason to achieve these goals. In addition to daily practices in the hitting room with a new computer radar system, the teams also held putting competitions, did yoga and lifted weights. However, Stetson emphasizes that improvement is catalyzed by working hard outside the sport as well. He says, “Our students know they are students first, athletes second, so staying on top of their academic load is a major goal.” Between demanding coursework and a comprehensive practice schedule, realizing these high expectations can be a tall order. Stetson says, however, that members of the team “need only to be themselves, look out for one another, and communicate with each other and the staff to stay on track.”
The team’s returning golfers are familiar with Stetson’s mantra, and many of them have blossomed under the tutelage of Stetson and the rest of his coaching staff.
Joe Tigani ’18 will be called on to lead the way for the men’s team. Stetson describes him as “the backbone of the team.” Alongside Tigani is Greg Reeves ’17, who aims to close out his final collegiate season on a high note. The underclassman ranks are bolstered by Ben Morgan ’19 and Jeremy Benjamin ’19, both of whom Stetson says have “worked hard and improved from last year.” Newcomers Bobby Osborn ’20 and Donald Holley ’20 are expected to be immediate contributors as well.
As any team with lofty aspirations knows, success can often come down to the intangibles. Skill and preparation go a long ways in achieving such goals, but cohesion and charisma are what separate a great team from one that is merely good. Stetson highlights the program’s “great chemistry,” adding that, “They[the team members] get along very well internally within each team and together across genders extremely well.” Armed with an enviable work ethic, a slew of accomplished veterans, promising new additions and a relentlessly positive atmosphere, the program eagerly anticipates the coming season. They are cool, collected and confident. All that remains is to execute.