TicketsFeb. 9, 2009
According to University of Cincinnati men's golf coach Doug Martin, the 2009 golf campaign is a challenging one, specifically the spring slate.
"Our spring schedule is one of the toughest -- if not the most tough -- spring schedule Cincinnati has had," said Martin.
After a disappointing fall, the spring season presents an opportunity to start fresh and finish strong.
A Competitive Schedule Ahead
After the fall, Martin and the team sat down and evaluated their performance, resulting in two main areas to focus on in the spring: all around better putting and better driving as a team.
According to senior Albert Fernandez, the new indoor practice facility has provided the team with the perfect opportunity to do just that.
"Having the room there has been very helpful, and has allowed the team to work on what we need to outside of practice," said Fernandez.
After easing back into their schedule with a March 1st tee-off at the Tennessee-Martin Invitational, the Bearcats will travel to Tampa, Fla. to participate in the Ron Smith Invitational. This trip will be vital tee-time for the Bearcats, as it is the first of two trips to the course, the second being at the BIG EAST championship in April.
The Bearcats will be tested again when they face two opponents that regularly place in the top-5 in collegiate golf at the Linger Longer tournament in Atlanta, Ga. There they will go up against golf powerhouses Georgia and Oklahoma State. The last tournament of the season - where the Bearcats hope to peak -- is the BIG EAST Championships.
The ultimate goal for the team is to win the tournament, slated for April 17, and go on to Regionals.
Cincinnati's Top Performers
Besides being a leader in the locker room, Fernandez has proven he can be a leader on the links, and he will be counted on to fulfill both roles this spring. Besides Fernandez, sophomore Joe Kastelic will also be counted on.
The team is going to have to come together and work hard to accomplish their goals.
"From a competitive standpoint, it is important that we as a team all raise our game this spring season," said Martin.
Ready to step up to the challenge, the team is preparing for the tough schedule to begin.
"We are all excited to turn the momentum in our favor and to face some challenging opponents," he said.