Getting to the State championship was tough. Staying on top once you’ve gotten there is ever harder, yet members of the Canyon Del Oro High School boys golf team are looking forward to the challenge.
“We’re just trying to improve as much as we can,” said coach John Farbarik of his championship team. “We want to stay hungry. In previous years, we were runners-up. Now we accomplished (winning the State championship), and our kids will keep putting as much effort into their performances.”
Helping the team to stay on top are the many players who are returning from last year. Logan France placed sixth in State last year. Jaime Waltmire placed second in State last year.
Both golfers represented the State of Arizona in the Junior America’s Cup in 2010.
In addition, they were named to last year’s Southern Arizona All-Star golf team along with teammates DJ Niichel and Jack Otis. Otis was a winner in the summer 2011 Ricki Rarick Tournament of Champions.
Other outstanding returning players include Derek Metz, Steve Wolsfeld and Chris Cotsones.
This year’s top newcomer is Chris Meyers. The freshmen has performed impressively outside of the school arena, said Farbarik.
“He has had some of the best successes in the 13-14 age group. He’s just really good,” the coach said.
Helping to ratchet up the team’s training efforts this year are new coaches. Joining returning coach Bill Dickerson are Robert Esquibel, David Morrissey and Susie Meyers.
Funding for the expanded coaching staff was made possible through fundraisers held during the previous school year.
“We sold everything that wasn’t nailed down,” Farbarik said. “We held about six or seven car washes and sold entertainment books.”
Farbarik called the coaching staff “excellent teachers.” Having them on board will enable the staff to expand the team members’ skill and development levels, and work more efficiently in practice.
The team will kick off the 2011-12 season this weekend with away games in Gilbert, Ariz. The first home game may be played Aug. 29 at the Silverbell Golf Course in Tucson. However, that game may be rescheduled.
The next home game is scheduled for Aug. 31 at Oro Valley Country Club.
For more information, visit cms.amphi.com/schools/cdo/golf/b2011.html.
