The SMHS Boys Golf Team has qualified for the CIF playoffs for the first time in 50 years
after competing in the Ocean League finals on Monday at the Santa Maria Country Club.
The boys saved their best play for the finals, posting their season best score of 469, finishing in second place behind Nipomo’s 452. That qualified the team to play in the CIF Division 3 Championships on May 13th in Tulare.
“Historical records are scarce, but I do know that in the 1960s teams did go to CIF, and in the 1970s SMHS had some really good golfers and teams likely qualified as well,’’ said Saint Coach Jay Cheney.
“What I am certain of is that in the last 45 years since SMHS discontinued boy’s golf in 1980 and brought it back in 2000-2001, that no team has qualified for CIF.’’
The Saints were led by senior Jose Flores, their dedicated captain. He shot a season best 87. Just a few shots behind, was junior Ricky Gonzalez with an 89.
“We have relied on the consistent performance from these two and they fought through some mid-round struggles and did their part.’’ Cheney said.
Senior and golf team rookie, Adrian Pasos shot a personal best of 92. Adrian hit a pro-level shot on hole #11 from 25 yards right of the green.
“PGA Tour players couldn’t do better,” Cheney said. “The impressive thing is that Adrian stepped up and drained the 10-foot putt to par the hole. He is such a natural talent that I wish I had a time machine to recruit him as a freshman.”
Another player that was all smiles at the end of the tournament was Leo Calderon who shot a 93, a personal best.
The last score in the team’s 469 came from Eric Lucas. Eric has battled a different opponent in the last few weeks, severe spring allergies. He shot 108.
Although Rafael Manzano’s score didn’t count in the team score, he was just behind Eric.