The Portage Trail Conference has shrunk to three teams going into 2024. Rootstown will be the team to beat and will be led by a group of four juniors. Rootstown has made some very positive strides in their first two years as a program and will continue to build on that success. Lake Center Christian will be rebuilding and St. Thomas Aquinas will need to add a few more players to be competitive this season.
Impact Players
Elizabeth Adkins (JR) Rootstown Alex Biggin (JR) Rootstown Charley Collins (JR) Lake Center Christian Anna Drago (JR) Rootstown Kate Tabellion (JR) St. Thomas Aquinas Ava Miller (JR) Rootstown
Freshmen to Watch
Lily Gardner (Rootstown) Morgan Giebel (Rootstown)
Head Coach- Matt Just Last Year’s Results- 13th at Punderson Sectional, 12-4 (2-2 P.T.C.), Lady Spartan Inv. (@Chenoweth) 4th Place, 437 Team Score, P.T.C. Tournament (@Sable Creek): 2nd Place, 433 Team Score Coach’s Comments- Looking forward to a successful season. Looking to improve upon our sectional finish last year. Playing a more competitive schedule this season, with more matches and an additional tournament.
Once again, 2024 will most likely be a two team race in the Southwestern Conference between the Eagles of Avon and the Shoregals of Avon Lake. Avon Lake has pulled out the conference championship the last two years, while Avon won the year before. Avon Lake will be top-heavy, with likely conference player of the year Olivia Tobin leading the way. Avon will bring a more balanced attack as they will have a little more depth in their lineup. One challenger to those two teams could be Olmsted Falls, a team featuring some young players with high upsides. The Bulldogs are the only other team to win an SWC title in the past decade, as they won the conference in 2020. The rest of the league will see a fight between Midview, North Ridgeville, Berea-Midpark, Amherst, and Elyria.
Impact Players
Allyson Beatty (SO) Elyria Gianna Betonte (SR) North Ridgeville Leah DiFranco (JR) Midview Emma Fitch (JR) Avon Miranda Haneberg (SR) Berea-Midpark Kylie Kittrell (SR) Avon Moira McGinty (SR) Avon Lake Addison Mullen (SO) Olmsted Falls Shyla Plezia (JR) Amherst Reece Thomas (JR) Avon Olivia Tobin (SR) Avon Lake Ashley Veverka (SO) Olmsted Falls
Freshmen to Watch
Lily Andrich (Olmsted Falls) Lena Kosunick (Olmsted Falls)
Head Coach- Aaron Millet Last Year’s Results- 7th at Springvale Sectional, 2nd place SWC, Madigan O’Leary was a district qualifier Coach’s Comments- We lost 3 seniors last year that had a combined 10 years of varsity golf experience that will need to be replaced. Kylie Kittrell came on last year as a solid contributor, and Emma Fitch and Reece Thomas both bring varsity experience to the team and will be key contributors this year again.
Head Coach- Joshua Houser Last Year’s Results- 12th at Springvale Sectional, 4th in SWC Coach’s Comments- Gianna Betonte is going into her senior year hoping to finish her high school career strong. She has put in a lot of work this of season in preparation for the 2024 season.
Head Coach- Alan Evangelista Last Year’s Results- 9th at Springvale Sectional, 8-5 Record; 3rd Place SWC Coach’s Comments- This season there are 25 girls trying out for a spot on our team, the most in our program’s history. I am excited that our program continues to grow and we are bringing in some young talent. I’d like to see us take a step forward competitively in our conference during the 2024 season. Look out for returning Varsity players Aubrey Caraballo (12), Addison Mullen (10), and Ashley Veverka (10), as well as potential new Varsity players Mya Hovan (11) and Lily Andrich (9) to lead our team this season. Liz Gaal (12), Rachael Price (12), and Lyla Williams (12) also bring some Varsity experience to the party as well.
Could there be a changing of the guard in the American Division of the Suburban League this season? The Highland Hornets have been in complete domination of the league over the past several years but they will lose a huge chunk of their state-qualifying lineup from 2023. Highland will turn to junior Elizabeth Coleman to take the reigns from their graduated seniors. They will have some experienced players back and will see who is ready for the spotlight. Highland will be involved in what could be a very tight race for conference supremacy. Gracyn Vidovic from Aurora will be in strong contention for conference Player of the Year. The Greenmen will have a lot to replace as well, however, and will join Revere and Kent Roosevelt as Highland’s stiffest competition. Revere has a young core of players with some experienced veterans and they have the potential to have a special year in 2024. Kent Roosevelt will follow wherever Ashlyn Leavery takes them and will need some of their young players to take a step forward. Copley and Tallmadge may round out the American Division but both teams look to be much improved from last season.
After winning the National Division last year, Hudson will look to repeat as they return a good chunk of players, including Emmy Burling, Julia Van Bokkelen, Elena Varga, and McKenna Kiewatt from their state qualifying team in 2023. Nordonia and Stow will both have something to say about that, though, as both have very strong top players. Julia Gulla from Nordonia is the defending National Conference Player of the Year and Olivia Berlingieri from Stow will look to improve off a season where she individually was able to qualify for the District Tournament. Solon will be in the same boat as Nordonia and Stow, where they will have a superstar player they will need to surround with talent. Serena Wu qualified for the State Tournament last year and will lead the Comets again in 2024. The Bears of North Royalton will use an alternative method to compete this fall. Chloe Yoon stepped up last year as the undisputed best player for North Royalton and they will use an immense amount of depth to supplement her abilities. Brecksville will have a new coach, former standout player Sylvia Stibley, and will be improved over last season. Wadsworth will turn to new girls coach Steve Farris to try to turn the team around from a tough season last year and Twinsburg will also be building for the future.
Impact Players
Avery Albright (SR) Highland Kate Banning (SO) Revere Natalie Barnes (JR) Nordonia Elle Baughman (SR) Wadsworth Olivia Berlingieri (JR) Stow Emmy Burling (SR) Hudson Elizabeth Coleman (JR) Highland Brooke Davis (SR) Tallmadge Amrita Deo (SO) Revere Manisha Girn (SR) Aurora Julia Gulla (SR) Nordonia Maddie Harpley (SR) Revere McKenna Kiewatt (JR) Hudson Liana Klepec (SR) Twinsburg Cassidy Klodnick (SR) Brecksville Ashlyn Leavery (SR) Kent Roosevelt Saumya Mahajan (SR) Revere Madison Maxwell (SR) Copley Adrianna Mineo (JR) Kent Roosevelt Hannah Roush (SR) Copley Kendall Sprutte (SR) Highland Sophia Thompson (SR) Stow Julia Van Bokkelen (SR) Hudson Elena Varga (SO) Hudson Gracyn Vidovic (SR) Aurora Gabby Witschey (SR) Highland Serena Wu (JR) Solon Chloe Yoon (SO) North Royalton
Freshmen to Watch
Charlotte Chester (Highland) Anna Coleman (Highland) Bennett DeLuca (Aurora) Kiley Gorog (Hudson) Kelly Macsurak (Aurora) Molly Stock (Hudson)
Head Coach- Collin McEndree Last Year’s Results- 1st at Old Avalon Sectional, 5th at Brookledge District, 2nd Place in Suburban League Coach’s Comments- Really looking to build upon our tough district finish at the end of the year last year, and really break through and get the team to state. We have a great solid core of our players returning, with some new freshmen looking to make a splash and add to our depth. We are very lucky to have Gracyn Vidovic (our state qualifier from last year) leading the team with her other senior teammates, as we set our eyes on winning the Suburban League and getting to state as a team this year.
Head Coach- Bob Harris Last Year’s Results- 7th at The Elms Sectional, Varsity Regular Season Match Record was 9 – 4 – 1, Lady Irish Invitational finish 3rd, Spartan Invitational Tournament finished 3rd, Summit County Girls Cup finished 8th, Shot 9 hole team low 176 against Tallmadge @ Loyal Oak, Shot 18 hole team low 362 at first Suburban League Tournament @ Old Avalon, Caroline Roush qualified for District Tournament Coach’s Comments- We have some experience coming back this season. Looking forward to our Sophomores to make the next step forward.
Head Coach- Mary Becker Last Year’s Results- 1st at Fox Den Sectional, 2nd at Brookledge District, 4th at State Tournament, Suburban League American Champions Coach’s Comments- This year’s Highland Team will be led by returning varsity players Elizabeth Coleman, Avery Albright and Kendall Sprutte. The Hornets Roster will be filled out with returning players from a competitive Varsity B team. Elizabeth Chester, Gabby Witschey, Mylie Tylicki, Mirabella Shelton, Caroline McKendry, Alli Miller, Kate Vickerman, Bianca Pallante will all compete to fill out the Varsity A roster.
Head Coach- Bobby Bolin Last Year’s Results- 3rd at Fox Den Sectional, 3rd at Brookledge District, 7th at State Tournament, Suburban League National Champions Coach’s Comments- We had our best finish in school history last year and are looking to build off that. We need to replace the talent and leadership of Sherry Du and Ellie Davis while building off the talent that Emmy Burling, Julia Van Bokkelen, Elena Varga, and McKenna Kiewatt bring. I look for seniors Hannah Lee, Annabel Lindley, and Brooke Harvey to take big strides this year.
Head Coach- Greg Harris Last Year’s Results- 4th at Fox Den Sectional, 11th at Brookledge District, 3rd in the Suburban League National Conference Coach’s Comments- We are looking to have a very good season with the 5 girls returning with significant varsity experience and all of them working hard on their games including playing in many summer tournaments.
Head Coach- Don Filips Last Year’s Results- 6th at Fox Den Sectional, 4th place Suburban League National Conference, 2nd place Lady Griffiths Tournament, 2nd place Tiger Invitational, 5th place EBC / Tri County Pre & Post Season Tournaments, 9th place Flamingo Frenzy, 9th place, 9th place Lady Rough Rider Coach’s Comments- The North Royalton Girls Golf team proudly fields one of the largest girls’ golf teams in the state of Ohio. The team returns up to 23 of 25 members from the 2023 season and has a record turnout of freshmen. Sixth year head coach Don Filips expects very competitive battles for spots on the 2024 varsity and junior varsity teams. Coach Filips is excited about the explosion of the popularity of girls golf at North Royalton and looks forward to the “NEXT SHOT” of the 2024 season!
Head Coach- Jeremy Harpley Last Year’s Results- 5th at Fox Den Sectional, Last year ended with a 5th place finish in a very competitive Sectional. Revere sent two ladies (M. Harpley and Mahajan) to Districts. RHS returns 9 letter winners (5 underclassmen) to lead the Team. Coach’s Comments- After a breakout year in 2023 our expectations are high. A good summer of golf, we look to expand on the foundation built last year. Further development of the Sophomores (Banning/Deo/Harpley, R/Addessi/Riley), stabilized by the District Qualifiers (Harpley, M/Mahajan) the Revere Women look to continue progress towards a District and State berth.
Head Coach- Damien Kopkas Last Year’s Results- 6th at Old Avalon Sectional, 3-4 overall, 5th place in Suburban League (National Division), Individual State Qualifier (Serena Wu) Coach’s Comments- Trying to replace 8 seniors from last year’s team has me truly looking forward to this coming season. I am excited to see who will step up and fill that void. The ultimate success of our season begins with individual state qualifier Serena Wu, who finished in 19th place at States and is coming off another stellar summer. The pieces of the puzzle behind her will fit into place throughout the season.
Head Coach- Scotte Rorabaugh Last Year’s Results- 5th at Old Avalon Sectional, Summit County Girls Invitational team champion and individual champion (Gabby Berlingieri)…Gabby Berlingieri (Sr.) shot 76-76–152 for T-17 in Division 1 State Championship…finished 2nd in Suburban League National Conference Coach’s Comments- We are looking forward to a good 2024 season. Despite losing our best player to graduation (state qualifier Gabby Berlingieri), our team returns four starters including Olivia Berlingieri (Jr) who qualified for Districts the past two years as an individual with her sister and Sophia Thompson (Sr).
Head Coach- Steve Ferris Last Year’s Results- 10th at Fox Den Sectional Coach’s Comments- We are looking forward to the season. Elle has a great chance to be All Suburban League.
Carrollton and Massillon were division champions in the Tri-County Conference in 2023 and will both look to repeat that task. Garaway is always a strong, non-Northeast District contender as well. For the Northeast District teams, Massillon should have a good chance to be on top of their division once again, as they return a team with a good amount of depth and consistency. Dover is a team that will be right up there with the Tigers, as the Tornadoes will be led by senior Miya Downing. Marlington will be competitive if they are able to find a quality fourth scorer. The Dukes will once again rely on superstar senior Zoe Mort to put up low numbers this fall. Canton South brings back a strong top of the lineup, and like Marlington, will need to supplement their top scorers. New Philadelphia, Northwest, Louisville, and West Branch are all in a rebuild but have promise for the future.
Impact Players
Angelina Boyles (SO) Fairless Sadie Compher (JR) New Philadelphia Leah Cramer (JR) Canton South Miya Downing (SR) Dover Hanna Farris (JR) Massillon Mallory Findley (SR) Massillon Hailey Franks (JR) Canton South Alexandria Frey (SR) Massillon Chessie Hatheway (SR) Massillon Olivia Jackson (SR) New Philadelphia Grace McGeehen (SO) Alliance Hayden Mesler (SR) West Branch Mady Misch (JR) Marlington Zoe Mort (SR) Marlington Addison Rey (JR) Canton Central Catholic Isabella Tack (SR) Louisville Tatum Tylke (JR) Dover Sadie Villers (SR) Northwest Natalie Warner (JR) Louisville
Head Coach- David Mullett Last Year’s Results- 3rd at The Pines Sectional, 5th at Good Park District, Canton South Girls Golf had their greatest season in school history last year! A school record 18 wins and only 2 losses! A 3rd Place finish at Sectionals was amazing and it sent us to Districts where we finished 5th! We also won our first two 18 Hole Tournaments ever! We Won The Griffth Cup at Spring Hills Golf Course, and I must give a giant THANK YOU to Laura Traganza from Northwest for inviting us, and SPRING HILLS GOLF COURSE for being the greatest host of a tournament I have ever seen! Me and my girls were blown away by your kindness and hope to see you more often! Thanks again Gary and Greg, and I encourage everyone to go visit SPRING HILLS!!! Coach’s Comments- After an Amazing and School record breaking season last year for the Wildcats, this 2024 team will look a little bit different. We will be led by Juniors Hailey Franks and Leah Cramer!! I think they are ready to lead this team, but they will need some help if we are to make it back to the District Tournament!
Head Coach- Brian Schultz Last Year’s Results- 9th at The Pines Sectional Coach’s Comments- Coming off our best season ever last year, we are excited to get back at it this year as we continue to grow our program!
Head Coach- Shawn Dillon Last Year’s Results- 12th at The Elms Sectional, 10-8 Overall Record 6-2 EBC and 4-2 Tri-County. Zoe Mort made it to Districts. Coach’s Comments- Zoë Mort was Stark County POY and MVP in both Leagues. Hopefully we can get her to State this year. Our team is inexperienced but hopefully we can find our way.
Head Coach- Justin Van Dyke Last Year’s Results- 14th at The Elms Sectional, 14-4 Overall, 12-0 in Tri-County League, 1st in Tri-County Red Division Coach’s Comments- Massillon is going to be lead by plenty of Seniors this year and is hoping to have success this year including another undefeated league play and hopefully get a few individuals close to making it past Sectionals this year.
Head Coach- Laura Traganza Last Year’s Results- 11th at The Pines Sectional Coach’s Comments- Improving your game is a personal responsibility and takes effort.
The Western Reserve Conference could end up being a very competitive two team race in 2024. There are many young players, especially sophomores, to watch as the conference season progresses. Returning champion Kenston will face a significant challenge from the Mayfield Wildcats at the top of the conference. Kenston has a deeper lineup than Mayfield but the Wildcats have a little more star power at the top, especially after the special rookie year of Julie Paradise. Willoughby South could be more of a factor than they have in the past. Chardon is never a team to take lightly but they will need to improve from their effort last season. Eastlake North will have the best player in the conference, senior Lauren Iannetta, who could single-handedly make the Rangers competitive in the league. Another ripple in the conference is the Riverside Beavers, who haven’t had a full team in the past, but are building toward something that could be special. They will be a team to look out for as their program grows.
Impact Players
Sydney Barker (SO) Riverside Cameron Gerlica (JR) Chardon Lauren Iannetta (SR) Eastlake North Stefania Mighton (SO) Kenston Lucy Moran (JR) Mayfield Kaylee Naymik (SO) Riverside Michaela Nocera (SR) Willoughby South Julie Paradise (SO) Mayfield Ava Solak (SO) Kenston
A huge thank you to the many coaches who took the time to send in their team information!
Alliance Aviators
Coach- Jeff Graffice Conference- Eastern Buckeye Conference Home Course- Sleepy Hollow Team Website Schedule Last Year’s Results- 0-10
Returning Players Ben Craig- 12th Cade Blatt- 12th Adam Burse- 12th Evan Winans- 12th
Potential New Contributors Cainen Baker- 11th
Coach Comments- We are trying to improve each day out to be competitive
Amherst Comets
Coach- Mitch Gillam Conference- Southwestern Conference Home Course- Fox Creek Golf Club Team Website Schedule Last Year’s Results- 7-0 in dual matches. Southwest Conference Champions, SWC Tournament Champions, SWC Mid Year Tournament Champions, Midview Invitational Champions, Bellevue Invitational Champions, Ravenna Yank Heisler Champions, Keystone Invitational Champions. Sectional Runner-Up, Edison Invitational Runner-Up, Norwalk Jim Denos Runner-Up, SWC Preview Runner-Up, Elyria Catholic Invitational Runner-Up.
Returning Players Prince Tran- 12th Jacob Sprinkle- 12th Alek Kissane- 11th
Potential New Contributors Michael Haddix- 12th Jordan Miller- 11th Landon Wolf- 11th Jaxson Yoder- 10th
Coach Comments- Returning three all conference players. Prince Tran SWC POY, Alek Kissane 2nd team and Jacob Sprinkle an honorable mention selection. Several solid newcomers will be counted on for scoring depth. Posting a solid 4th score will be the key to the season.
Aurora Greenmen
Coach- Gus Mehallis Conference- Suburban League Home Course- Walden and Barrington Last Year’s Results- 3rd in Suburban League- American
Coach Comments- Strengths – our experience and depth and our desire to practice and improve. Keys to Success – getting off to a good start, staying positive, and making good decisions.
Barberton Magics
Coach- David Kaser Conference- Suburban League Home Course- Pine Valley Team Website Schedule Instagram- @magics_golf Last Year’s Results- Record was 8-3, League finish was 6th place
Returning Players Marco Silva- 12th Cole Macko- 12th Maverick Oktela- 12th Tony Arthur- 11th
Potential New Contributors Braylon Trout- 12th Vincent Wieland- 12th
Coach Comments- Our top 2 golfers have been improving every year and look to do the same for their senior seasons. Marco Silva has advanced to districts the last two years.
Bay Rockets
Coach- Rick Manderine Conference- Cleveland West Conference Home Course- Legacy Last Season’s Results- Overall Record 81-27 Great Lake Conference 27-6 Dual Record 11-3, Tournament Results: 1st: Pioneer Classic, 3rd: GLC Championship, 3rd: GLC Preview, 3rd: Keystone Classic
Returning Players Ian Williams- 12th Jack Chalmers- 12th Travis Ropelewski- 11th Ryan Reed- 12th Ben Shuster- 12th Jayson Miller- 11th Trevor Ormsby- 11th
Potential New Contributors Tommy Mack- 12th Ben Wagner- 11th Jayden Perrine- 11th Matthew Mileti- 10th Emmitt Naughton- 10th
Coach Comments- The Bay Village squad is returning three high level players from last season. Our team goals are high. (Sr.) Ian Williams will be a force for the up-coming season. He is one of the elite players in the area. Ian’s been an integral player the past two seasons earning 1st GLC honors both seasons.
(Sr.) Jack Chalmers will join forces with Ian to be the catalysts of the squad. Jack earned 2nd team GLC honors last season. He’s played all summer and is ready to take the next step. Jack is a smart player that grinds out pars.
(Soph.) Travis Ropelewski will round-out the top three. He gained valuable experience at the varsity level last season, earning 2nd team GLC honors. Travis plays with power. He’s a high level competitor. His short game is improving.
All three are strong iron players. With improved consistency and decision making, they can all become elite players in the area. They are putting in the work and are ready to make some noise @ D-2.
We are looking forward to a competitive season. Our goal is to compete with the high level teams in the area, win the GLC Championship and make a run deep into the Division II tournament. It will be an exciting season for the Rockets.
Berea-Midpark Titans
Coach- Jim Cook Conference- Southwestern Conference Home Course- Royal Crest Golf Club
Returning Players Andrew Greger- 12th Luke Nedoma- 11th Oliver Marcelo- 10th LJ Krek- 12th Luca Santori- 12th
Potential New Contributors Leo Smith- 12th Gavin Wagner- 10th
Coach Comments- Our team had no seniors last year but was a mix of players with varsity experience added by a couple of hungry Freshman players. I look forward to the team taking the next step in conference & tournament play.
Brunswick Blue Devils
Coach- Colin Smith Conference- Greater Cleveland Conference Home Course- Pine Hills Schedule Twitter- @brunswickhsgolf Last Year’s Results- Shot a season low at Sectionals (Goodpark)
Coach Comments- Really looking forward to another season of growth. The Varsity team has a good core of returning players, and we are excited to see how some of the young players will progress.
Canfield Cardinals
Coach- Michael Kerensky Conference- All-American Conference Home Course- Mill Creek Metroparks Schedule Last Year’s Results- 8-0 Head-to-Head
Returning Players Jake DeLisio- 12th Michael Ambrose- 11th Nathan Miller- 11th Bryce Roberts- 11th Danny Chaplow- 10th
Coach Comments- I am looking forward to working with this group of men as they are first and foremost, team-oriented and all have the same goal on their minds.
Firestone Falcons
Coach- Scott Westphal Conference- Independent Home Course- Good Park Golf Course
Potential New Contributors Eddie Karam- 9th Patrick Arway- 11th Gavin France- 11th
Coach Comments- We will have a mix of some returning experience and some new faces on Varsity. Excited for the incoming freshman class and their potential.
Harvey Red Raiders
Coach- Scott Cummings Conference- Chagrin Valley Conference Home Course- Painesville Country Club Facebook- Harvey Red Raider Golf Team Last Year’s Results- 12-6, 3rd in CVC Chagrin
Potential New Contributors Adam Raphael- 10th Luke Cvelbar- 10th
Coach Comments- We have a good group of return lettermen this year who understand we have an opportunity to win the conference. I will come down to their execution and contributions of our newcomers to be a complete success. They are up to the challenge.
Archbishop Hoban Knights
Coach- Quinn Parker Conference- Independent Home Course- Mud Run Golf Course Twitter- @Hobanboysgolf Last Year’s Results- Division 1 State Runner-Up
Returning Players Brett Bagatti- 12th Ray Dress- 12th Braden Herstich- 12th Chris Pollak- 12th Ethan Cooper- 11th Ben Berridge- 10th Carter Stircula- 10th Thomas Grasson- 10th
Potential New Contributors Ray Koeberle- 9th
Coach Comments- This team will be led by are four seniors. All of the returning golfers have had really good spring/summer tournament season so far. I believe this could be a very special year for this group. I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish.
Hoover Vikings
Coach- Scott Snyder Conference- Federal League Home Course- Arrowhead Golf Course Team Website Last Year’s Results- 3rd place in the league, 8th place in the sectionals
Returning Players Dan Gambone- 12th Luke Stutzman- 12th Carter Russell- 12th Joey Stehura- 10th Owen Casper- 10th
Potential New Contributors Anthony Gambone- 9th Carter Hershberger- 9th
Coach Comments- We’re excited about the upcoming season. We have several returning players with quite a bit of experience and a good incoming freshman class.
Hudson Explorers
Coach- Matt Villenauve and Dave Kurtz Conference- Suburban League Home Course- Country Club of Hudson Team Website Twitter- @hudsongolfrocks Last Year’s Results- Suburban League Champions, Windmill Sectional-1st, Pine Hills District-1st, State Tournament-Team 10th, Sam Fauver 9th
Returning Players Sam Fauver- 12th Ben Fauver- 10th Benjamin Matava- 12th Jerry Du- 10th Adam Ruffer- 12th Koen Vanscoy- 11th
Jackson Polar Bears
Coach- Jim Kish Conference- Federal League Home Course- Shady Hollow CC and The Legends of Massillon Last Year’s Results- 1st in Federal League, 1st place sectionals, 5th place district, 9th place state
Coach Comments- We will need several young players that need to step up for us to be competitive this year.
Kent Roosevelt Rough Riders
Coach- Ben Curtis Conference- Suburban League Home Course- Windmill Lakes Golf Course
Returning Players Liam Curtis- 12th Jack Puhalla- 12th Jack Flynn- 11th
Potential New Contributors Owen Puhalla- 10th Deacon Smith- 11th Jackson Turner- 9th
Coach Comments- Returning is 2nd Team All State, POY in Suburban League Liam Curtis and a couple of experienced players in Jack Puhalla and Jack Flynn who both showed signs of improvement last year. Also looking forward to upcoming players Deacon Smith, Owen Puhalla and freshman Jackson Turner. Replacing experienced players who have graduated to new ones is always a challenge but look forward to helping and seeing these younger players develop their golf games and provide a great experience.
Louisville Leopards
Coach- Michael McFerren Conference- Independent Home Course- Sleepy Hollow Golf Club Facebook- Louisville Leopard Boy’s Golf Last Year’s Results- 6-1
Returning Players Michael Filipowicz- 12th Braden Frank- 11th
Coach Comments- We lost our #1, #2, #3, and #4 golfers from last year, 3 of which were 4 year letter winners. We are going to be VERY inexperienced this year. We have a lot of players that are going to be trying out this year, many of which are multi-sport athletes doing so for the first time. It will be a growing year, hopefully we will see our scores drop throughout the year and we will have a few guys step up to take the 4 open spots in our line-up.
Massillon Tigers
Coach- Josh Sykora Conference- Independent Home Course- Legends of Massillon Twitter- @MTigerBGolf Last Year’s Results- The 2023 season was one of the best on record for the Tigers. We had a winning percentage of 76%. We played 18 invitationals and the Tigers recorded 4 second place finishes and 17 top 10 finishes. Owen Robinson was a District Qualifier. We graduated 4 of our top 5 guys with 3 of them going onto to play at the collegiate level.
Returning Players Aiden Koehler–11th
Potential New Contributors Carter Maxheimer–9th Mason Simons–9th
Coach Comments- We will be in a rebuilding year for the 2024 season. Rising Junior Aiden Koehler has been a strong leader all off season and is a player to keep an eye on.
Medina Bees
Coach- Mike Mozingo Conference- Greater Cleveland Conference Home Course- Fox Meadow Twitter- @medinabeesgolf Last Year’s Results- 5X GCC champions. Sectional runner up. 7th in District
Coach Comments- Looking forward to a season full of potential
Mentor Cardinals
Coach- Neil Grantz Conference- Greater Cleveland Conference Home Course- Black Brook Last Year’s Results- Andrew Betz qualified to the District Tournament as an individual. We were fourth in the Greater Cleveland Conference.
Returning Players Johnny Prentice- 12th Josh Michaels- 12th Carter Briskey- 10th
Potential New Contributors Matt Andre- 10th Andrew Engler- 10th
Coach Comments- Our 2 seniors had surgery. I don’t know if they will be ready at the beginning of the golf season. The 3 sophomores showed much promise as freshmen. My guess looking at the players trying out is that we are going to have a very young team with a lot of potential for growth.
Midview Middies
Head Coach- Kyle Zimmer Conference- Southwestern Conference Home Course- Brentwood Twitter- @MidviewBoysGolf Last Year’s Results- 7-5 overall, 3-4 conference, 10th place sectional
Returning Players Ryan Kemer- 12th Ethan Taylor- 12th Jon Klooz- 11th Patrick Dolin- 11th
North Olmsted Eagles
Coach- Brian Posendek Conference- Cleveland West Conference Home Course- Springvale GC Schedule Twitter- @NOEagles Last Year’s Results- Sectional – 11th Place
Coach Comments- Returning varsity players Landon Graff and Jacob Schneid look to lead the Eagles this year. Kody Schneid will continue to provide consistency at the varsity level. New comer Jake Perkins looks to introduce himself to the CWC with his consistent play.
North Ridgeville Rangers
Coach- Mike Belpulsi Conference- Southwestern Conference Home Course- Pine Brook Twitter- @coachbelpulsi Last Year’s Results- 2-7
Returning Players Kyle Urban- 12th Nicky Mealey- 12th Nick Forristal- 12th Tyeson Carter- 12th Parker Prince- 12th Michael Shulte- 11th
Potential New Players Josh Behlke- 11th Ethan Crevda- 11th Matt Luca- 10th Mason Limpert- 10th James Kingery- 10th
North Royalton Bears
Coach- Steven Sprunger Conference- Suburban League Home Course- Hinckley Hills Last Year’s Results- 4th place in the Suburban League National League. Overall dual match record of 5-3. No qualifiers to district
Returning Players Charlie Wilson- 12th Ryan Kuchta- 12th Ethan Gubacz- 11th Jackson Cavenaugh- 11th Patrick Mansbery- 10th Lucas Stringer- 10th Ryan Wilson- 10th
Potential New Contributors Tyler Kimmel- 10th Zach Horiba- 10th
Coach Comments- I am hoping to see some big steps from our sophomores to assist our great seniors to achieve our goal of getting back to the district tournament.
Revere Minutemen
Coach- David Archer Conference- Suburban League Home Course- Fairlawn Country Club Schedule Twitter- @minutemengolf Last Year’s Results- Won the Mapleton Invitational (1st of 15), Finished top 5 in 4 of 6 Invitationals entered before then taking 3rd place at the Good Park D1 NE Sectional tournament and moving on to District play.
Returning Players Jack Kinder- 12th Angelo Levak- 12th Liam Gartland- 12th Tommy Kinder- 10th Jack Skidmore- 11th
Potential New Contributors Andrew Ash- 10th Charles Rogers- 10th
Coach Comments- The boys may have surprised themselves a bit last year, but now they’re excited about what more they can do. Our focus will be on putting in the time to get just a little bit better every time out.
Riverside Beavers
Coach- Mike Pickett, PGA Conference- Western Reserve Conference Home Course- Little Mountain CC and Quail Hollow CC Last Year’s Results- Undefeated 10-0 in WRC Conference Matches, WRC Season-Long Team Champions, Qualified out of Sectionals at Quail to go to Districts as a team.
Coach- Paul Roby Conference- Cleveland West Conference Home Course- Big Met Golf Course Team Website Schedule Twitter – @RR_BoysGolf Last Year’s Results- 11-1 on the season, 3rd at Sectional, 7th at District
Returning Players Caden Lawrence- 10th
Potential New Contributors Max Lehmann- 12th Finn Potts- 11th Joe Brant- 12th Nolan Toole- 10th Noah Opdycke- 11th Angelo Fiutem- 11th
Coach Comments- Entering my first year as the head coach of the Rocky River High School Boys Golf team is an incredible honor. We have a talented group of young men who are dedicated to improving their skills and achieving their goals. Our focus will be on building a strong team spirit, honing our techniques, and enjoying the game. I’m excited to see how our hard work pays off on the course and to watch these players grow both as golfers and as individuals.
Saint Edward Eagles
Coach- Douglas Sessor Conference- Independent Team Website Twitter- @sehs_golf Instagram- sehs_golf_eagles Last Year’s Results- 4th place Sectionals, 1 individual district qualifier
Returning Players Vinh Lai- 12th Michael Tyler Polca- 12th Sean Curran- 12th
Potential New Contributors Nick Yonadi- 9th Ryan McGuire- 12th Chris Najda- 11th Rocco DeBolt- 9th Sam Variglotti- 10th Charlie McGurer- 12th Carson Torek- 10th Evan Duenas- 11th
Coach Comments- Another strong off season for our program. Our youth camps were very successful along with our squad playing a very competitive schedule. Once again, the overall outlook is on reaching our potential as a person & golfer. Qualifying for OHSAA states will and always be our direction. This season we are tasked with filling the slots left by multi-year captain Jack Myslenski and Thomas Marshall.
Saint Ignatius Wildcats
Coach- Kevin Neitzel Conference- Independent Home Course- Elyria Country Club Team Website Last Year’s Results- Last year the team finished 7th in the State at Scarlet. Bradley Chill was 2nd team All State. Finished in first place at Sectionals played at Quail Hollow with a score of 302. Finished 3rd place at Districts with a score of 301.
Returning Players Craig Carneval- 12th Joseph Maloof- 11th Alex Stiegele- 11th Fitch Farina- 10th Kyle Malicki- 10th Dominic Castellucio- 10th Ryan Hvizd- 12th Jackson Sommers- 11th
Potential New Contributors Patrick Myers- 9th Ethan White- 9th
Coach Comments- We look forward to the season as we have a young but talented group of young men. We have a deep team that will be unified and push each other to be their best.
Saint Vincent-Saint Mary Irish
Coach- Jim Currie Conference- Independent Home Course- Good Park Team Website Instagram- stvmboysgolf Twitter- @stvmboysgolf Last Year’s Results- 10-3 in matches. 2nc at the St Eds Tournament, 5th place finishes at Strongsville, CVCA, Alliance, TCC Inv, Cardinal Classic, Nordonia, Rough Rider Inv and Midwest Prep Classic. 5th at the Windmill Lakes Sectional. Paul Witschey advanced to the District tournament at Pine Hills where he tied for 27th
Returning Players Paul Witschey- 12th Nick Wierzbicki- 12th Angelo Puglia- 12th Jackson Vesco- 12th Nate Sparhawk- 11th
Potential New Contributors Matt Large- 12th Quinn Yori- 11th
Coach Comments- The seniors need to lead us. We have the experience to be good, just need to be consistent and play well every time we play and see where the season takes us.
Shaker Heights Raiders
Coach- Paul Sampliner Conference- Greater Cleveland Conference Home Course- Highland Park GC and Shaker Heights CC Last Year’s Results- Team District Qualifier for the 4th year in a row.
Returning Players Joey Moore- 12th
Coach Comments- Rebuilding after graduating our top five players.
Stow-Munroe Falls Bulldogs
Coach- Chet Feldman Conference- Suburban League Home Course- Fox Den Last Year’s Results- Second in league and a state qualifier
Returning Players Austin Wilhoit Tyler Cheetham Eddie Norman AJ Halsne Oliver Huff
Potential New Contributors Gavin Schneider
Coach Comments- We have a great leader in Austin Wilhoit. I hope the other players watch his habits and emulate them and understand what it takes to be a great golfer and teammate.
Strongsville Mustangs
Coach- Steve King Conference- Greater Cleveland Conference Home Course- Bunker Hill Twitter- SHS_Golf14 Last Year’s Results- 4th Sectional, 2nd in GCC, District qualifier
Returning Players Harrison LaBahn- 12th Nick Colagiovanni- 11th
Tallmadge Blue Devils
Coach- Scott Campbell Conference- Suburban League Home Course- Brookledge Twitter- @Tallmadge_BGolf Last Year’s Results- 7th in Suburban
Returning Players Gabe Jones- 12th Warner Carter- 12th Andrew Byron- 11th
Potential New Contributors Caleb Reifsnyder- 12th Mario Case- 11th Jesse Ambrose- 11th Thomas Huth- 10th
Coach Comments- We will be lead by our 3 returning Varsity players and will look to be competitive. We are excited to see who will compete for our other Varsity spots.
University School Preppers
Coach- Aaron Sayre Conference- Independent Home Course- Sand Ridge Team Website Last Year’s Results- 2nd Place in Sectionals, 6th Place in Districts. 1st Place finish in the Reese Alexander Tournament 2023, Returning all starters (4 seniors).
Returning Players Adam Sands- 12th Jackson Pinney- 12th Ethan Roberts- 12th Slater School- 12th Bennett Johnson- 11th
Potential New Contributors Nathan Chege- 10th
Coach Comments- With 5 returning starters (3 of which are 4-year letterman golfers) expectations are high. We have missed the state tournament by a few strokes the past two years, and this year our attention is on qualifying as a team. Players to watch are our two senior captains Jackson Pinney and Ethan Roberts. Both players have potential to medal at any tournament they play in, and expect to shoot state qualifying scores.
Valley Forge Patriots
Coach- Mitchell Hartel Conference- Cleveland West Conference Home Course- Ridgewood Team Website Schedule Instagram- @vfhartel Last Year’s Results- Overall, we finished 7-5 last year, and pushed through one player, Ryan Repko, to the district tournament.
Returning Players Billy Jobes- 12th
Potential New Contributors Nick Turko- 11th Steve Baker- 12th Brandon Beach- 12th Hera Obloy- 10th Myles Wisniewski- 10th Aidyn Petito- 10th Nolan Orlowski- 10th Brody Daniels- 10th Brandon Samarin- 12th
Coach Comments- After three straight winning seasons, the Valley Forge Golf Program saw the departure of five of its six student-athletes from a year ago due to graduation. With that being said, we are really excited about the new additions we are bringing on, and the youth movement that is coming along with that. Our hope and expectation is to get better one shot at a time this year, and use it as a learning year for many of the players in our program.
Wadsworth Grizzlies
Coach- Steve Ferris Conference- Suburban League Home Course- Pine Valley
Potential New Contributors Jack Ishee- 12th Ben Stuchal- 12th Chase Otradovec- 10th Colin Gerber- 11th
Coach Comments- We have high expectations this year. I believe Landon & Michael have a good chance to make it to the State Tournament.
Walsh Jesuit Warriors
Coach- Bill Reilly, PGA Conference- Independent Home Course- Ellsworth Meadows and Brookledge GC Twitter- @WJHS_golf Last Year’s Results- Men’s varsity golf team had another very successful campaign in 2023 The team had seven top three finishes throughout the season, including two championships, crown conference and Strongsville invitational. 3rd Red Tail,WJ, Ashland, 2nd Green Invt and sectional. The team did not make it to the state championship this year, but was led individually by sophomore, Anthony Spain, who did qualify and finish 21st in the state.
Returning Players Anthony Spain- 10th Steven Voinovich- 12th Ryan Czenszak- 11th
Potential New Contributors Logan Mackey- 12th Mossimo Russo- 10th Ben Yeager- 10th Matthew Czenszak- 9th
Coach Comments- Individual Personal bests were achieved this past year as 72-73 (145) from Junior, Steven Voinovich, 71 from Anthony Spain 73 from Ryan Czenszak. The Warriors look to be very strong this year led by the experience of Voinovich, Czenszak, Spain, additionally, Logan Mackey, Mossimo Russo, Matthew Czenszak and Ben Yeager. These gentlemen will offer a great push to a very positive post season run.
Westlake Demons
Coach- Luke Harris Conference- Cleveland West Conference Home Course- Big Met Team Website Schedule Twitter- @Demons_Golf Last Year’s Results- Undefeated in conference play, won GLC, 1st place at EC Golf Invite, 1st place at GLC Preview, 2nd place at Midview Invite, made it to Districts
Coach Comments- We lost our State contender Sion Park as well as two of or consistent scoring seniors. However, Mitch England and Josh Turk have made large strides and are ready to be major contributors. In addition, rising Sophomore Peyton Wolf was one of the best 9th graders in the area last season. Look for him having a breakout season this year.
Willoughby South Rebels
Coach- Matt Fundak Conference- Western Reserve Conference Home Course- Manakiki Twitter- @SouthRebelGolf Last Year’s Results- 11-7, Western Reserve Tournament Champions, Michael Lavrisha – District Qualifier
Returning Players Michael Lavrisha- 12th Tyler Hace-11th James Miller- 12th Ralph Zappola-10th Lukas Gennarelli- 12th
Coach Comments- We hope our off season work pays off this fall.
Wooster Generals
Coach- Brent Dillon Conference- Ohio Cardinal Conference Home Course- Wooster Country Club Schedule Twitter- @woogolf Last Year’s Results- 3rd place OCC
Returning Players Sam Fleming- 12th Aidan Cleveland- 12th Anthony Long- 12th Grady Hahn- 11th Andon Hart- 11th
Potential New Contributors Colton Lawrence- 11th Riley Jones- 12th
The OHSAA released the fall sports divisions for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school years. There are six schools in the Northeast District that will see changes. Moving up from Division 2 to Division 1 will be Beaumont, CVCA, Field, Hawken, and St. Vincent-St. Mary. Moving down from Division 1 to Division 2 will be Akron Springfield, the only school in the state that will fall a division. Other schools that were bumped that may be added to the Northeast District in girls golf include Carrollton and Minerva.
In a memo to coaches sent out today, the Ohio High School Athletic Association announced the golf State Championship schedule for 2024. The Division 3 boys State Championship will continue to be hosted by NorthStar Golf Club. The Division 2 State Championships will take place at Firestone Country Club in Akron. The boys will play on the North Course while the girls will play on the Fazio (West) Course. The Division 1 State Championships will move to NCR Country Club in Kettering, near Dayton. The boys will play on the South Course and the girls will play on the North Course.
Other information included in the release gave the dates for all postseason tournaments, listed below, and established July 29th as the first official day of the 2024 season.
2024 State Tournament Schedule September 18-28- Sectional Tournaments September 30-October 8- District Tournaments October 11-12- Boys Division 3 State Tournament at NorthStar Golf Club October 13-14- Boys/Girls Division 2 State Tournament at Firestone Country Club October 14-15- Boys/Girls Division 1 State Tournament at NCR Country Club
The ultimate goal in high school golf is to have the opportunity to be a state champion, whether it is as an individual or as a member of a championship team. Imagine working for four full seasons to accomplish that goal only to show up to the Ohio State Golf Club feeling terribly sick. Then overcoming that to beat a field of the best players in the state to win the individual State Championship. This is the story of how Siena Maschke, a senior at Laurel School in Shaker Heights, was able to persevere to become the Division 2 individual state champion in 2023. This is also the story of how Siena transformed herself into a top level competitor, a great teammate, and an amazing individual.
The story starts in a very unlikely place: Asia. “I was traveling to Hong Kong with my dad when I was about three,” Siena recalled. The family came upon a driving range and Siena started hitting golf balls. That was the beginning of something special, although not immediately. It wasn’t until she was about six years old that she ever made anything out of golf. Siena ended up joining the First Tee program where she learned the fundamentals of the game and the life skills that have proven to be the ultimate reward that comes out of the game of golf.
Siena did not play golf competitively much before high school and did not get off to the greatest start in her high school career. “I shot a 112 in my first tournament at Lake Forest my freshman year,” she explained. She knew she could do better and looked up to a very successful teammate for help. Jami Morris, who won the Division 2 State Championship as a sophomore and is currently playing golf at Penn State, became Siena’s motivation. “I was inspired by how focused she was,” Siena added. “At first I was intimidated but I became encouraged by what she brought to the course. She showed me what it took to be a state champion.” Following Jami’s leadership by example, Siena continued to work on her game and received some fantastic experience during her freshman year, where Laurel ended up finishing third at the State Tournament and she carded respectable scores of 84 and 85. Jami won the individual tournament once again.
To get to the State Tournament in 2023, Laurel needed to improve over the year. Even with Siena at the top of the lineup, Laurel did not have high external expectations for the season. “We had the same team coming back from last year,” Siena explained. “Four of our top five players were seniors. We had classes together and were friends off the course.” Siena maintained a positive outlook and made sure that her teammates picked up on it. She is very outgoing on the course and would do just about anything to pick up her teammates, whether it was shouting to them in the next fairway, giving them a hug at the end of the round, or shedding actual tears when a teammate had a great round. “Once they saw their improvement, they were encouraged,” Siena said. That improvement was massive. Laurel’s team score at their second event of the season, the Lady Explorer Invitational at Lake Forest, was 404, which put them 16th in a field of 18, albeit some of the top teams in Ohio. At the District Tournament at Good Park Golf Course, Laurel shot 359 to sneak into the third and final qualifying spot for the State Tournament by two strokes over Southeast.
Siena’s individual run started strong in 2023. She received a “coming of age” moment in the Ohio Women’s Open at Scioto over the summer, where she actually finished ahead of Jami Morris, the player she looked up to in high school. She won the Ohio Girls Golf Foundation tournament at Avon Oaks before the high school season started, then won tournaments at Twin Lakes and Pine Hills (in a scorecard playoff). She then lost her swing midway through the season. “Coach (Marti) Hardy and my mom were both telling me it was okay if I didn’t win states, but I was so determined.” Siena worked hard to overcome the adversity along with her coach, Joe Meglen. “He was like my therapist,” she recalled. “I worked on skills, but also mental game and breathing strategies.” She was able to put everything back together and played her best golf when it mattered the most. The State Tournament was on the horizon.
“I haven’t really told anyone else this but I was so sick during the State Tournament,” Siena said. “I went through four bottles of Robitussin. It was at the point where other players were reminding me to take medicine.” She toughed it out for the first day and shot a fantastic score of 70. She was greeted by hugs from her teammates. She was also starting to get attention from other players, parents, and coaches. “I was shocked people knew who I was,” she remembered. High school golfers don’t typically have much experience with sleeping on a lead, because most tournaments are only one day affairs. Siena had a two stroke lead over Garaway’s Sammi Miller going into the second round. “I told myself to stay focused. Don’t get too happy, too upset, and stay stable mentally.” It was a little tougher day and Siena ended up with a 73, but it was plenty enough to earn her the individual title. She ended up winning the State Championship by seven shots over Eva Lim from Columbus Academy and Avery Thompson from Hebron Lakewood. Siena offered this advice as to how she ended up being a State Champion: “Golfing every single day, taking lessons, playing in more tournaments, and learning how to play the golf course are how I did it.”
Siena had many positive things to say about the teammates she was able to play alongside during this magical ride. Fellow seniors Jade Gladue and Liliana Embrescia were the two most improved players from the previous season. “They both showed huge improvement which led to our team success,” Siena said. Every team needs that team player that everyone likes to be around. Stella Kronstain, another senior on the team, was that player according to Siena. “She is one of my best friends,” Siena added. The team will now be in the hands of current sophomore Elizabeth Weingart, who Siena predicts will be their future number one player. “She is my little sister at school. We’ve built a really good relationship and she has improved a ton on the golf course.” Siena is hoping to pass down the State Championship pedigree to Elizabeth.
There is another relationship that Siena treasures and will continue to embrace as she moves on in her golf career and personal life. Marti Hardy, a Spanish teacher, has been Laurel’s golf coach for over twenty years and has seen the growth and development of many talented players and exceptional people. “She opened so many doors for the team and myself,” Siena said. “She is 75 years old and although the golf is a lot, she wants the camaraderie. It keeps her young.” Coach Hardy is a fixture at Laurel. She will take her players out to lunch or dinner, go to school plays and athletic events, write recommendations, and most importantly, provide snacks on the golf course. She also understands the game very well. “She knows people have bad days. She’s always encouraging,” Siena said.
It goes both ways. Coach Hardy was extremely complimentary of Siena, both on and off the golf course. “I would call her genuine,” Coach Hardy explained. “The ways she treats her competition and teammates makes her a great role model. She has been mature since 9th grade. Siena is one of the easiest kids to coach because she came in ready to go.” Coach Hardy bragged of Siena’s respect for her opponents, ability to overcome mistakes, and care for her teammates, coaches, and the golf course. “She is confident without being cocky,” Coach Hardy added. “She is social on the golf course, which helps her not be nervous and not get rattled.” She also bragged about Siena’s role at Laurel, where she is a straight A student, class president, and well liked by her peers and classmates.
Siena will be attending Denison University in the fall and will be playing on the Big Red’s golf team. “Coach (Lauren) Grogan has a drive to win a National Championship and I want to be a part of that,” Siena explained. “I was originally so against being in Ohio but I visited Denison and kept going back, like four times. The community and coaches were interactive and they were the only school that remained engaged. I had lunch with the team and it was like we had always known each other.” She plans to possibly study global commerce and/or psychology.
Siena Maschke is a baker, a chef, a crocheter, and a knitter. She is the editor of the Laurel School magazine, “The Voice”. She is a school ambassador and is part of the “Look Up to Cleveland” Leadership program. And most importantly, she is a State Champion Golfer and an amazing mentor and role model.
When Isabella Goyette and Paige McKendry graduate from Highland High School in May, they will go down as one of the top duos to have ever played together in Northeast Ohio. Their accomplishments speak for themselves. The Hornets won the Suburban League each of the four years that Isabella and Paige played there, they won their Sectional tournament all four years, and they qualified for the State Tournament each one of those seasons, finishing in fourth place twice and fifth place twice. Isabella was the Suburban League Player of the Year twice and finished on the All-Suburban League First Team all four years. Paige was on the First Team three years and the Second Team her freshman year. There are enough awards between the two players to take up an entire database. But having the opportunity to speak with both Isabella Goyette and Paige McKendry, it immediately becomes apparent that their achievements on the golf course come second to how amazing they are as people. Neither of them will ever discuss their awards, honors, and accomplishments, but they will be the first two to speak highly of their coaches, parents, mentors, and teammates. And that is what makes these two players special. Young, up-and-coming players wanting to make an impact on the Ohio golf landscape would do well to model themselves after these two players, because the sport will be better for it.
Paige McKendry
Paige and Isabella both started playing the game when they were very young. The McKendrys lived right behind the 16th green at Briarwood Golf Course in Broadview Heights and Paige could be found out on the course with her parents from a very early age. She did not take formal golf lessons until she was in fifth grade but was ready to play varsity golf from the moment she stepped on the course for tryouts her freshman year. She just didn’t know it yet. “As a freshman, I was just hoping to find a spot on JV,” Paige remembered. “I had no idea what high school golf was like.” Paige never ended up playing on the JV team because she made the varsity team from the first day.
Isabella Goyette
Isabella was also really nervous for tryouts her freshman year. Her older sister, Alessandra, was already on the team and Isabella was not sure what to expect. She had been taking golf lessons since she was five years old and had been playing at Westfield Country Club with her sister and father her entire life. “I was just trying to take it all in,” she said about her first day of tryouts. “I needed to get introduced to it and needed to figure out what high school golf was like.” She was probably the only one nervous because it was pretty apparent to everyone at Highland that she was going to make an immediate impact. Highland coach Mary Becker was part of everyone in this scenario. “They were involved in our middle school program,” she said. “Both girls stood out there and in getting to know their families, it was apparent that everyone, girls and families, were all in when it came to committing to development.”
It did not take long for either Paige or Isabella to figure out high school golf. They both became immediate factors on one of the top teams in Northeast Ohio. Highland was in the middle of an impressive run where they already had several conference championships and were becoming a mainstay at both the District and State Tournaments. The two jumped right in and never looked back. “The team kept getting better each year,” Paige said. “We had the same roster my first two years, then (after a couple changes) years three and four we had the same players both seasons.”
Isabella mentioned that having many different personalities mixed together on the team really helped them grown. Paige described her teammates as beautiful and unique. “Everyone has things that make us tick,” she added. Players like Kavya Chada, Kendall Sprutte, and Avery Albright brought the Hornets the depth they needed to be dominant. There was one other player that both Paige and Isabella mentioned that really changed the mindset of the team from the time she showed up to tryouts as a freshman two years ago: Elizabeth Coleman. “Elizabeth is so positive,” Isabella proclaimed. “It’s always sunshine and rainbows with her. She helped us overcome issues of pessimism and negativity. Helping people when they are down brings us all up.” Paige described Elizabeth as bringing “light and positivity” to help the whole team mindset. “She has been a leader since her freshman year,” Paige added. The team will fall into Elizabeth’s hands as she enters her junior year along with Avery and Kendall. Other players that will bring depth to Highland’s 2024 squad include Elizabeth Chester, Gabby Witschey, and many other players. One of those is Caroline McKendry, Paige’s younger sister, currently a sophomore. “We’re best friends in life,” Paige said happily.
Isabella was fortunate to have the opportunity to play with her sister for her first two years. Alessandra Goyette had an extremely accomplished career at Highland and was part of the generation that started the current dominant run the Hornets have been on. “I didn’t realize how special it was until she was gone,” Isabella recalled. “We had always been best of friends, and very competitive. When she went to college it was the first time I had to live without her. She was really a wonderful role model in golf and life, mainly just how she handled things.”
Both Isabella and Paige credited their success to many role models and supporters throughout their careers, but the names they both mentioned were Highland head coach Mary Becker and assistant coach Doug Snelling. Both players were in Coach Becker’s physical education class in middle school. Paige described Becker as patient and respectful. “She takes time to get to know each player,” Paige added. “She was always there when I needed her. She is smart and knows what she is talking about. She is a mentor who gives the team the right mindset. She is a wonderful person.” Paige said that the biggest lesson she learned from Coach Becker was that “being on a team isn’t about yourself, it’s how you fit into the team.” The dedication it takes to be on a team and the ability to improve your game are two other lessons Paige took from her coach. Isabella described Coach Becker as “one of the most determined people I’ve ever met. I have so much respect for where she has taken the team.”
Senior year is always emotional, especially for two players who had been together through three straight years of continued success. “It was not too different,” Isabella mentioned. “But it was definitely more special.” She added that it was her last season with her teammates and that she remembers it for a few new tournaments that made the year special. “We went to Oakland Hills in Michigan and that was a really fun experience,” she said, also mentioning the Terlesky Invitational at the Lake Club. Paige realized that every tournament they played in would be the last time they were at that course. “I knew it would be different,” she said. “It would definitely be a little bittersweet, especially being my last time playing competitive golf.”
Paige is planning to attend Bowling Green State University in the fall, and while she will not be playing on the school golf team there she does plan to continue with the game by trying out for the club team. She will be majoring in BGSU’s THEM program, which includes Tourism, Hospitality, and Event Management, and minoring in Entrepreneurship. Isabella will be continuing her golf career at Kent State University. “They were the first school and the best school to reach out to me,” she explained. “I really made good connections to their coaching staff and loved their facilities.” She will be majoring in Fashion Merchandising.
Young players can learn a ton about golf from listening to Isabella and Paige explain the game. They both really enjoy the fact that high school golf is an individual sport in a team environment. “I love how golf is different from any other sport,” Isabella explained. “I definitely love the individual aspect as well. It starts with the team aspect but as you go further it becomes more of an individual sport. I like that you can focus on yourself and play your own game, which is mentally challenging, but someone else on your team can also pick you up.” Paige agreed. “There is individuality in golf, it’s very unique,” she said. “I’m not a very competitive person externally, but I am very competitive with my own self. 90 percent of the game is mental and it’s a challenge to overcome that. But as a teammate you have to be there for your team. There are no days off.” Paige mentioned that she struggled with putting coming into her freshman year. “I was a bit of a hot head when I was younger. But I turned that into a positive mindset. I became more patient and willing to forgive myself.” She became the top putter for Highland her sophomore and junior years.
Coach Mary Becker founded the girls golf program at Highland and has been the only coach in the program’s history. She had nothing but praise for her two graduating superstars. “Paige not only loves playing golf, but strives to play the game well,” Coach Becker said. “She has a great understanding of where her strengths are, and plays to them on the course. Whenever she doesn’t perform to her expectations on the course, she works her tail off to make corrections. Whether it is getting extra lessons or extra range and practice green time, she is determined to play the type of golf she knows she can.
Regarding Isabella, Coach Becker stated, “Isabella is an amazing golfer. She now owns a majority of the te Highland High School Girls Golf individual performance records. A couple of great things I will always remember about Isabella are her steady demeanor on the course, and how other players love playing with her. Not just other top players, either. She makes everyone she plays with feel at ease.”
Paige McKendry and Isabella Goyette are both once in a generation players who are ambassadors of the game of golf. We would like to wish them both the best of luck as they continue their academic and athletic careers!
According to multiple sources, the Sectional Tournament that had been previously played at Springvale Golf Course has been moved to Big Met Golf Course in Fairview Park. Big Met prides itself on potentially being the most played golf course in the state of Ohio and has been open since 1926. Stanley Thompson was the original architect of the course, which is owned and operated by the Cleveland Metroparks. The current Division 1 Sectional hosts are Old Avalon in Warren, Fox Den in Stow, and the Elms in North Lawrence.
Here is a look at the current state of some programs and what they will have coming back in 2024.
Changing of the Guard
The Division 2 Girls Golf landscape may be changing significantly in 2024. St. Vincent-St. Mary and Independence both had dominant runs but will need some young players to step up this fall. Both teams have two significant contributors returning from their state qualifying teams but will have some holes to fill to replace what they lose to graduation. For the Irish, Raygan Hoover and Reese Latta both gave four strong years to the program. Raygan’s younger sister Rylee along with Caitrin Coyle, both who will be juniors, will easily be the first two in St. V’s lineup. For the Blue Devils, Macey McGhee and Maria DeCapua will both be entering their senior seasons as the top players, but will need some help to replace Molly McGreal and Adriann Buyansky.
The uncertainty with the last year’s two dominant programs will open the door to some new blood in D2. One team that is looking to take advantage of that opportunity is the Southeast Pirates. Southeast missed going to the State Tournament by two strokes last year and will look to avenge that in 2024. The will lose one key piece of the 2023 team in Gracie Westover but return a deep, talented squad, which will also get some help from a strong freshman class. Senior Taylor Blazek will most likely stay in the top spot of the lineup. Other returners include juniors Aubree Varga and Adrianna Sloan.
In the far reaches of Northeast Ohio, the Edgewood Warriors will be really looking forward to the 2024 season. Edgewood will return their entire lineup from last season. Although they did not make it to Districts, Edgewood should have some very high goals for this upcoming season. Seniors Avery Vencill and Emma Hart-Wood will once again team up with juniors Annie Johnston and Zoe Naus to look to make something special happen in Ashtabula.
East Canton, like Edgewood will see their entire lineup look exactly the same this fall. With a little improvement over their results last year, 2024 could be the best team the Hornets have had. Senior Mia Steigerwald, her sophomore sister Meghan Steigerwald, senior Elyse Mallette, and junior Charlie Robinson are a group that will be very ambitious once August rolls around.
Columbiana might not have a single superstar player, but they may also be the deepest D2 team in Northeast Ohio. The Clippers regularly rotate their young players into matches and tournaments to give them the most experience they can get. 2024 might be the culmination of that strategy. Sisters Ellie Jackson, who is a senior, and Maddie Jackson, a sophomore will lead Columbiana and will receive assistance from seniors Hailey Muntean, Annaka Patrick, and Mackenzie Day along with juniors Sophia Perry, Sydney Spaite, Hannah Moffet, and Emma Gazzaniga. Sophomore Claire Banner will also contribute to the Clippers this year.
Possibly the most surprising team in the area in 2023 was Orange High School. Freshman Anuja Patel became a household name by the end of the season and will look to build on that success during her sophomore year. Two seniors, Tessa Kemelhar and Bree Turner, will join junior Alex O’Connor to provide the depth the Lions need to compete for a trip to the State Tournament. Orange is yet another school that returns their entire starting lineup and that experience will be crucial, especially when competing in Division 2, where many teams are not exceptionally deep.
A final team bringing back their entire starting lineup and on the verge of being competitive is the Bristol Panthers. They will need to take a big step in 2024 but it is possible to see them making a run to Districts and competing to go even further. Senior Addison Williams will lead the Panthers and will receive some help from sophomore Anistyn Williams along with juniors Kayden Gillin and Ava Stammer.
Time to Get Going
Lorain County has a team to keep an eye on. The Keystone Wildcats have quietly been growing their program to the point where 2024 will be a season where they could compete at the highest level. Keystone has built the foundation needed to be successful with seniors Emma Feakins and Lucy Cook. Junior Alexis Askew will also be a strong scorer for the Wildcats. With these three and some talented freshmen rising up, Keystone will be ready to make a run.
Chagrin Falls has had high hopes over the last couple seasons but have struggled to play well at the right times. That could very well change in 2024 as the Tigers have a talented freshman class coming up to assist the team in fighting for a Chagrin Valley Conference crown. Junior Reagan Burnight and senior Gracie Ryan are the returning contributors and the Tigers will also look for some help from a decent sized roster of experienced players.
Sitting right on the outskirts, looking for a place at the table in the D2 conversation are the Vikings from LaBrae High School. Madison Touart, a strong player, will enter her senior year ready for LaBrae to break through. Junior Mia Sloan and sophomore Riley Rowe will help Touart and the rest of the Vikings look to accomplish all they can in 2024.
Hard to Replace
Alongside Independence and St. Vincent-St. Mary, there are several other schools that will need to replace some key pieces in order to stay competitive. Perry will have to learn to play without graduate Emily Capitosti. They will rely heavily on returners Addie Trefzger and Jillian Peters, a senior and junior respectively. Canton South loses three key parts and will have a very young team, led by juniors Hailey Franks and Leah Cramer. Rootstown, minus Audrey Francis, will be a junior dominant team with several players looking to break out. Lake Catholic is in a similar situation, losing Theresa Lazanich. They will have a young core that will look to build together. Finally, Laurel, coming off a trip to the State Tournament will not be able to replace Siena Maschke, who won the individual state championship. They will need junior Elizabeth Weingart to step up and lead an inexperienced group to improve throughout the season.
Ohio High School Golf 