Shaler boys golf team returns top 4 from last season

By: Josh Rizzo
Thursday, August 8, 2019 | 11:43 PM

Shaler Area boys golf coach John Brough isn’t sure where some of his players heard the team was predicted to finish last in Section 3-AAA.

But the perceived slight lit a fire under the Titans, who didn’t have any golfers qualify for WPIALs last season.

“They’ve been motivated, and I’ve been pleased with their drive,” Brough said. “They’ve been doing a lot of voluntary practices, and Stephen Jones has taken a leadership role.”

Adding skills will be beneficial for a Shaler squad that will return plenty of experienced players.

Shaler brings back its top four golfers. Aidan Williams, Dylan Matthews, Thomas Carlson and Jones are the top returners, and John Shimmel is in the mix to join that group.

The Titans open their season Aug. 21 at Butler. Along with the Golden Tornado, Shaler will compete against North Allegheny, North Hills, Pine-Richland and Seneca Valley in section.

Last season, Shaler didn’t pick up a win in section and had its lowest scores of the season in a 186-219 loss to Pine-Richland.

“I’m hoping those guys who were raw last year show improvement now (that) they are battle-tested,” Brough said. “They should be able to hit the ball farther. Longer drives equals better scoring opportunities. The bogeys turn into pars, and the pars turn in to birdies.”

While Brough is pleased with the progress of his veterans, he expects to have a strong crew capable of surprises.

Seldom do things go as he expects.

“I expect the team to be pretty balanced,” Brough said. “I always have one kid step up every match and have had the most unlikely guys become MVP. Physically, they develop at the right time, and it plays for them. They understand and feel the club going through the swing. It happens. Some guys who were shooting in the 80s all summer will be one of the top guys.”

Tags: Shaler