Like a chess match.
That’s how Overlake coach Sprague Kolp describes what it’s like out on the golf course. He stresses focusing on the strategic aspect of the sport – thinking one’s way around the course – and encourages his boys golfers to work on setting themselves up for the next shot.
“I’m proud of the way they’re starting to see the big picture,” said Kolp, whose squad was 4-0 and in first place in the 1A Emerald City League at press time. The team’s low score is 166 during the nine-hole contests.
Senior Rohit Sirosh leads the way for the Owls with four medalist honors and he’s been consistently shooting in the 34-35 range.
“Rohit can probably play No. 1 for any program in the area. He is the guy who sets the tone for us,” said Kolp, who noted that Sirosh can hit the ball at a solid clip and is an effective putter.
He’s a humble person, as well, Kolp added: “He has the ability to be both self-aware and introspective.”
Sirosh is a two-time league champion and qualified for state three times, with his best finishes being in second and third.
Other top Overlake golfers include:
Senior Trent Gardner, who also qualified for state last year and can drive the ball 300 yards off the tee. Kolp, a former professional golfer, said he’s blown away by the way Gardner can lay into the ball.
Junior Justin Pong, who grinds his way through the course, according to Kolp, and really puts some thought into his game.
Senior Nelson Ngouenet, who is the team’s “emotional catalyst” and also a solid putter, Kolp said. “He’s excited to compete with his teammates and for his school,” the coach said.
While the squad is performing well thus far, Kolp notes that the Owls have to keep plugging away through the rest of the season.
“Our goal is to be the most improved team from start to finish, and I think we’re doing a pretty darn good job of that this season,” he said.
• Bear Creek also competes in the 1A Emerald City League and sported a 3-1 record at press time.
The squad, which features state returners John Hayes and Oliver Nordberg, defeated Seattle Academy, 167-176, on Tuesday. Hayes was the medalist with a 36 and Nordberg was second with a 39.
