2011 Boys' Latin Athletic Banquet
Award Recipients (Coach Champion's Speech)


Special Thanks
 
I’d like to thank Boys’ Latin and specifically the Athletic Department for their ongoing support of the Golf Program and our efforts to serve the boys.  Special thanks as well to my fellow coaches & good friends, Chad Vaughn and Evan Wilson – both PGA professionals.  Thank you to my wife Juliet and son Davis for supporting my time with the team.  Thank you to the parents of our players – oftentimes lead by Lynn Guy - for their ever-present kindness and generosity.  And special thanks to our Seniors & Unsung Heros, Stephen Sample & Kendall Newman, for their steadfast presence and leadership in this, their final season.  Both will be missed as they head to Washington College and Pitt in the Fall.
 
Team Captains
 
During this, its finest season to date, the Boys’ Latin Golf Team was co-captained by two players who worked together in bringing a unique combination of style and substance to the course day in and day out.  One was a third year starter and former Team MVP who had finished each of his first two seasons as one of the MIAA’s top players and who had been voted All Conference in each of those two seasons.  His presence was one of quiet strength – a leader by example and a soft-spoken encourager to his teammates.  The other was a first-year starter and self-appointed team rabble rouser – never at a loss for fire and always on-point with an overly-excitable attaboy or getterdone.  Both juniors, they fricked and fracked their way through the season as the most distinctive one-two punch of leadership in the conference.  For their ability to lead with undying spirit and their representation of integrity on and off the course, the Laker Golf Team applauds 2011 Co-Captains Will Guy & Ben Feild.
 
 
Spirit Award
 
This year’s Spirit Award winner reflects the cornerstone virtues of the Boys’ Latin Golf Team: Discipline, Integrity & Intention.  He weaves strong moral fiber throughout an impassioned will to win.  He marries dogged sticktoitiveness with fervent dedication to success.  He is never still.  He is always moving forward – progressing with purpose fueled by conviction.  
 
A freshman and first-year starter, he entered the season with a team ranking that placed him outside of the starting line-up; but by the first match, had earned his way onto the roster.  From there, he would continue in his improvement and move his way into the team’s number four position.  This incredible rise up the team rankings was complimented by an ever-engaging personality. Always smiling – often to the frustration of his opponents – his light-hearted exterior masked the reality that he was, at his core, a gung-ho competitor.  He played in every match of the season – grinding out essential points for his team, and grinning all the way.  For his contagious spirit of camaraderie and his infectious, steadfast resolve, we applaud the efforts of Dylan Watts.

The Laker Golf Team was well-lead in 2010 – captained by a young man of steady resolve and ongoing affirmation.  His placement in the throws of influence was appreciated throughout the season  for his ability to rouse the troops and lift the spirits of his comrades. 

He served as a beacon of guidance for upper and lowerclassmen alike – and the glue with which he held together a squad of competitive spit-fires was the strongest of bonds.  He walked with heavy steps and an upright posture.  He motivated, encouraged, delivered, and reinforced messages of encouragement throughout the season. 

He was the core of this team’s collective spirit.  His was true leadership – wrought from equal parts grit and affection.  He was their captain.  He was their compass.  And he lead his team to their most successful season to-date.

Suffice it to say we are pleased and proud of our 2010 Team Captain, Mr. W. Neill Peck. 

Most Improved Player Award:

We recognize two most-improved players in 2010

The Next Man Up.  It’s the toughest place to stand.  It means you’re good – very good – but not quite good enough.  You’re told you’ll get your chance – you’re told you’ll have your day – but you’re not told when, and you’re not guaranteed the opportunity.  We’ve all been there.  We’ve all stood in that place – be it on the athletic field, in corporate America, or in personal relationships – we’ve all been the next man up at one point or another.  Our hopes weighed down with anchors of patience – waiting, waiting…always waiting.

This year’s Laker Golf Team graduates a young man who was the Next Man Up for thirty-nine matches.  Thirty-nine contests that found him the seventh man on a six man roster.  Thirty-nine reminders that he was good, but not quite there – close, but not close enough.  Prospects for a change in 2010 were slim – with increased depth in the line-up – and he began the season where he had ended 2009, in sole possession of the seventh slot.

He was Next Up vs Mt. St. Joe.  Next Up vs Gilman.  Next Up vs McDonogh.  Next Up vs Loyola.  Next Up vs John Carroll.

And then, it happened…

I don’t know if he discovered a swing secret.  I don’t know if he changed his grip.  I don’t know if he read a self-help book.  I don’t know if the golf gods themselves sprinkled magic dust on his woods and irons.  What I do know is the kid got tired of being second.  He got tired of waiting.  And he stepped it up...big time.

His drives sailed 310 yards.  His irons were crisp.  He was hitting knock-down mid-irons to tight flags for heaven’s sake.  His 30 yard cut-slice disappeared and was replaced by a 10 yard draw.  Here he was – the same kid who for 39 matches couldn’t break through – exploding onto the scene.

In weekly challenge matches, he earned his way into the starting line-up by beating out teammates who were 3-4 positions ahead of him.  He forced a playoff in qualifying for the Individual Championship and won his slot in the first hole of sudden death.  And indeed, he anchored his place as a starter for the remainder of 2010 – including the post-season, where he waged a remarkable effort.  But it would be in the regular season, during the St. Paul’s match where he would shine brightest.

Having earned his way into the line-up for the first time, he faced-off against BL’s conference rival in the final home match of the 2010 season – which is to say, his last-ever home match.  On the line was not only the pride associated with the contest, but also a birth into the post-season.  Undaunted, he played with a calm yet confident demeanor, and rallied from a one-down deficit to split the match's front side.  Remaining balanced and staying within himself, he found his match going the distance - and when the contest concluded, stood proud for having won the second half and total matches.  The perennial Next Man Up, had crawled his way into the line-up, competed with sheer determination, helped defeat the mighty St. Paul's, and in doing so, vaulted his team into play-off contention.  It was an amazing display of determination over circumstance – an awesome achievement to witness - and an example that will stick with this team for ages.

His journey has been one of persistence, fortitude, grit and patience.  And it could not have come to a more appropriate conclusion.  For his dedication to progress and for his remarkable improvement in the face of great odds, we wholeheartedly salute the most-improved efforts of Laker starter Sam Dunbar.  

As my players and coaches will tell you (and as this evening no doubt illustrates), I am rarely at a loss for words.  Few are the times when I am left speechless in the face of circumstance.  Good or bad, right or wrong, I can usually come up with something to say about whatever particular situation befalls our squad.  But at Chartwell Country Club, in our regular season match against Archbishop Spalding, I was left speechless in observation of our next most improved award recipient. 

He was a lanky Junior southpaw who had improved steadily over the prior few seasons – and who had dropped from a scoring average of 125 to 93 through steady work and discipline.  He had competed in junior tour events in the off-season – and even anchored two top-five finishes – all the while showing a true dedication to improvement.  Nonetheless, he was firmly aboard the bogey train in 2010 – and his destination was the bottom of the order.  His power ranking was 8^th, and his scoring average hovered between the mid 80s and low 90s – enough to show significant potential, although not for the current season.  With that understood, he was injected into the 6^th roster slot for a late-season match against conference stalwart Archbishop Spalding – in order to grant him some competitive experience in light of BL’s already secure seat in the playoffs.

As he stood on the first tee at Chartwell, I was biting my nails.  When he pounded his drive 290 yards down the center, I thought to myself “How about that?!”  When he made a six footer for par, I raised my eyebrows.  When he made a 35 footer for birdie at the 2^nd, my jaw hit the floor.  And when he chipped-in for a working man’s par at the third…well, I was nearly incontinent.  Here he was, a lanky unassuming, third year team member with no prior experience as a starter – pounding drives, hitting greens, making putts, and beating the tar out of his opponent.  Through the first five holes he was one under par – one under par! - and he finished the front side at even.  I, much like his opponent I’m sure, was awestruck.  Here was a kid who’s scoring average in 2008 had been 125 – and who at best in 2010 would shoot 84 – making pars and birdies across a course he’d never seen.  I watched the match with child-like wonder, peering through my fingers as my hands covered my face, doing my best to put on some type of dispassionate coach’s stare - but failing miserably to hide the look of astonishment that no doubt accompanied my amazement for his on-course accomplishment.

Like his aforementioned teammate, he had seized an opportunity to break through.  He had refused to lay down and accept defeat in the face of insurmountable odds.  He had stayed the course of intention – and at day’s end, had improved to a degree that was without precedent.

For fighting his way into contention, for forging a path toward excellence when probabilities were slim, for failing to accept anything short of achievement, for dropping no less than 53 shots since 2008, and for doing it all with competitive grace and humility, we recognize the most-improved achievements of Stephen Sample.

 The Spirit Award

We have two Spirit Awards this season: 

Every now and then you get a kid who’s a scrapper – a spit-fire grinder that refuses to go away when challenged – a hat-worn-low kind of character who runs on a full tank of high-octane persistence.  The type of kid that won’t conquer his opponent with a handful of strong uppercuts, but rather 12 round’s worth of stick-and-move jabs.  Well, we have one of those kids.

He’s unassuming.  He’s quiet.  He’s inconspicuous.  He’s modest.  And as such, he’s easily discounted by his opponents.  Until he beats them two of three ways – like he did no less than five times this season…as a Freshman.

His drives top out at 240, but rarely miss the fairway.  His approach shots are struck with long irons, but rarely miss the dance floor.  He is excellent around the greens and steady in his course management.  He is the consummate competitor and the collective conscience of the squad.  His future is bright – as is the team’s for his inclusion.

For his never-say-die attitude and his formidable on-course presence, we recognize the unwavering spirit of Danny Murphy.

The second spirit award goes to a bruiser of a linkster – a broad-shouldered, strong-as-an-ox, maroon & white wrecking-ball that returned in 2010 for his second season with the team.  As a starter in 2009, he earned a reputation as a gamer – the type of competitor that would rise to the occasion when the chips were down.  As last season’s most improved player, he saw his scoring average drop 17 shots – and was poised for continued progression in 2010.  He did not disappoint.

Throughout the season he served as a spirit compass for the squad – firing up his teammates with his gravel-in-the-gut mentality and dogged sticktoitiveness.  He would challenge his peers to excel.  He would boost their drive with his own words of motivation.  He would lift them up by his own example.  And he would contribute greatly to their collective will to win.

His swing is remarkably, and fortunately, unique.  It is a forceful heave silhouetted in controlled rage.   Picture the Incredible Hulk with a pitching wedge and you’ve got a good visual for illustration.  But as wild and raw as the swing is, its significance pales in comparison with the wide-eyed intention that emanates from the player himself.  Teammates and coaches need only look into his eyes to see the determination that drives him.  They only have to look at his gaze to see his competitive mission.

For two seasons, his example has been a strong one for his teammates.  His mere presence has raised the competitive tide – and he has served as a vehicle of influence for the squad’s two best seasons to-date. 

Time and time again, we watched him struggle in practice only to achieve during game time.  There’s a switch that he flips when push comes to shove – a mechanism that he clears to rise to the occasion.  We’ve watched it happen for two seasons – and we’ve witnessed the contagion that it’s triggered.  Today, as we wish him well following graduation, we’re privy to the imprint his presence has made – as generations of Laker Golfers will compete in a mold cast from his example.  For that and so much more, we recognize the spirit of Laker Golf bone-crusher, Drew White.

 Most Valuable Player(s) Award 

The first goes to a team member who, competing in his second varsity season, notched victory after victory at the top of our line-up.  His balanced and at-peace persona carried him through matches against the A Conference’s top opponents.  Plodding his way through match after match, framed in wrap-around Oakleys, he followed-up a remarkably successful Freshman season with an even more commendable Sophomore effort.

Widely considered one of the MIAA’s top-ranked sophomores, he tied for 5^th place in the Individual Championship – defeating 95 other competitors in the process, and finishing beneath only 1 other 10^th grader.  In doing so, he became the first Laker to notch top 10 finishes in both their Freshman and Sophomore years.  Subsequently and accordingly, he was named to the All MIAA Team by Conference Coaches – the second consecutive time he’s received the award, also a first for any Laker Golfer.

His achievements are the byproduct of a steady resolve and personality born of true character.  He is a gentleman competitor and a worthy example to his peers.  He leads through affirmation and example; and is deeply anchored in the efforts to improve not only himself, but those around him.  That, more than anything, is what makes him exemplary.

For his achievements on and off the golf course, and for his ongoing dedication to his team, we present an MVP Award to Will Guy.

I love this story.

Four years ago, a kid shows up to try out for the team.  Clubs made before he was born.  No golf shoes.  Balls fetched from the local pond.  Wearing a long sleeve Abercrombie & Fitch shirt in 95 degree heat because it’s the only collared shirt he owns.  Swings like he’s having a seizure.  Can’t hit the ball out of his shadow.  Coaches squint their eyes and purse their lips.

But, as the story goes, he was a good kid.  Humble.  Energetic.  Intelligent.  Encouraging.  We kept him around because you can’t cut a kid like that.  What did he do?  He ran errands.  Kept stats.  Picked the range balls off the chipping green.  Cleaned the bus.  He was a manager.  And he was a darn good one.  And everyone loved the kid.  He was so good hearted – and just oozed virtue.

After that 2007 season, the kid decides to work on his game.  All Summer.  All Fall.  All Winter.  He’s pounding range balls at Pine Ridge in December – hitting seven irons into a blanket of snow when everyone else is at home curled up by the fire.  He’s rolling putts on the carpet at home.  Thinking about how he’s going to manage his way around the home course next season.  Because, he thinks to himself, I am going to make the squad.

And make it he did.  He became a starter in 2008 after dropping no less than 40 shots in his scoring average.  He played in every match that season, won the most improved player award, and was further honored as the first recipient of the Lubke Award for Sportsmanship & Integrity.

In 2009, he was named Team Captain – having shaved further strokes off his game, and having memorized the rule book in its entirety, he competed throughout the season in the Team’s #4 slot.  And against Calvert Hall, he would defeat the player who would invariably win the Conference Individual Championship – effectively dethroning the MIAA’s top player.

This season, his remarkable journey continued – and he enjoyed his third year as a starter.  His play was strong throughout 2010 – and in classic fashion, he swept his opponent of all points in matches against Loyola, John Carroll, and in his final home match, St. Paul’s.

His story of persistence and hard work is remarkable.  His example stands alone as a shining illustration of determination’s influence.  From manager to most valuable player, his journey has been nothing short of astonishing.

Ben Hogan once said “Hard work never bothered me like it bothered other people.  You can outwork the best players in the world.  And in doing so, you in turn become the best player.”

I think Ben Hogan would have been proud of Matt Sherman.  I know I am.  He’s your 2^nd MVP.

The Henry Lubke Award for Sportsmanship & Integrity

Three years ago, Laker Golf Alumnus and 2005 Boys’ Latin Graduate Henry Lubke was taken from this world – tragically passing away in his sleep, after suffering from a dialated cardiomyopothy.

To this day, the memory of Henry finds me wearing a smile – as I remember his balanced temperament, his commitment to truth, and his ever-present strength of character.  I remember being a young coach – my first season at the helm of a fledgling program – watching Henry hit shots into the sunset, whistling songs as he took early-evening divots.  I remember admiring his perseverance – his desire and dedication to improvement.  I remember thinking that it was his ardent resolve that set him apart – and his unwillingness to compromise his own moral compass that kept his steps as firm as his heart was pure.

He was a man of integrity - the consummate gentleman competitor and a shining example of excellence to those who knew him.  His legacy lives on in an award that bears his name.  It reads:

“Given to a Boys’ Latin Golf Team member who displays character traits of intention, purpose and discipline; who carries himself as a gentleman on and off the golf course; and who acts in a manner that is consistent with the spirit of the game and its associated values.”

This year, we are proud to honor a Laker Senior with this award.  As a four-year starter, he has been the standard-bearer for our program’s development.  An ever-present personality, his inclusion in our collective journey these past four years has found us in receipt of significant blessings.  He has been a remarkable player – collecting countless points for the team over the years, and winning numerous individual titles himself.  He has played at or near the top of our line-up more than any player who preceded him – and has competed in all 44 matches contested in the past four years.  His record of perfect attendance, and his ability to compete at a top level is surpassed only by the character with which he represents himself.  He has been a young man of truth and honesty – as firm in his posture of integrity as his desire to compete.  For that, and for much, much more, we award the prestigious Henry Lubke Award for Sportsmanship & Integrity to Boys’ Latin Senior Ben Whitman.



2009 Boys' Latin Athletic Banquet
Award Recipients

Team Captain:

A kid shows up to try-outs in 2007 with no golf shoes, clubs older than he was, and a make-shift, seizure-like swing that produced from the coaches widened eyes and grinded teeth.  The shots that were struck were motivated less than a football field’s length – and the scoring average that was better suited for a bowling alley than a golf couse.  The kid wasn’t….well, he wasn’t good.  But he was good-hearted.  He was a young man of integrity.  And he did hustle.  He was engaging, intentional, and disciplined.  You can’t just cut a kid like that.  So, we made him a manager.  He kept stats, cleaned the bus, and ran errands.  And he did those things well.  But then, he began to do something else.  He began to work on his golf game – with sizable focus.  He committed himself and refused to settle for lack of improvement.  He returned in 2008 and made the varsity squad – an achievement in its own right; then earned his way into the starting line-up through a remarkable 40 shot improvement in scoring average.  This year, he arrived having further improved his game, and most interesting, his leadership skills.  After attending a leadership conference at Harvard University, he displayed the natural postures of motivator and encourager.  He played all season at #4, and collected points by winning numerous contests against the conference’s best – including a second half victory against Calvert Hall’s Jason Burton who would go on to win the Individual Championship.  For displaying a dogged determination to self improvement, a sizable commitment to sportsmanship, and a dedication to the development of his teammates, we named Matt Sherman as team captain in 2009.  And he did not disappoint.

Most Improved:

We award two most improved players in 2009:

The first is a young man who was a first-year team member and starter this season.  He is a burley, hard-hitting, bone-crushing steamroller that joined us from the football team – and made the squad in part because I was quite fearful for my own safety in the event that I let him go.  His day one scoring average hovered somewhere between 120 and infinity – and to call his swing unique was to avoid the more appropriate adjective “unsightly.”  No surprise, he hit the ball hard – so hard, in fact, that sympathy was at times invoked for the golf ball for having been struck with such ferociousness.  His ragged BL mop-of-a-haircut complimented an ever-untucked shirt and dirt-laden clubs to produce the team’s most affable and endearing member in 2009.  But under the outward exterior of rugged Hulk-like verve was the focus and determination of a calculated strategist.  His game would mature quickly and his on-course decision-making would improve with rapid pace.  In three months’ time, he would drop no less than 42 shots in recorded scoring average – a near-unprecedented feat in and of itself.  The same man who had missed the ball completely in the pre-season went on to shoot 39 on the front side at Suburban against Annapolis Area Christian.  For his development as a player and as an individual, for his growth on and off the golf course, a most improved player award goes to Drew White.

Sometimes the most challenging opponent we face in life is our self.  Sometimes, its not our competition that weighs on us, but the burden of pressure we place on our own shoulders.  Sometimes, the face of opposition is found in the mirror’s reflection.  Such was the reality for our second most-improved player.  As a freshman in 2007, through discipline and focus he lowered his scoring average from 93 to 76 and played regularly in the #2 slot.  As a sophomore, he continued his development, became a scratch handicap, and notched a top ten in the Individual Championship.  He won three times on junior tours over the summer, and entered the ’09 season with sizable promise.  He beat Gilman’s Hunter Rief head-to-head in the first match of the season, and rallied to win the second half of his match against Calvert Hall’s Casey Taylor – effectively taming the beasts of the conference’s top two squads.  His season was off to a solid start, and his future appeared bright.  Then, as often happens in the developmental stages of athletes, he fell into a slump.  It was a time period that found him questioning his abilities, his agenda and his objectives.  It was a time for tough questions and firm focus.  It was an occasion for reflection and resolve.  And it was a period from which he would emerge triumphant.  He went on to reclaim the #1 seed in our roster, re-attain his 0 handicap scoring average, and won his final two matches against Mt. St. Joseph and conference champion McDonogh.  At season’s end, he had weathered the toughest journey – that of a man who stood face to face with his own demons.  And having emerged victorious, he stands ready for fresh challenge and new heights in the days to come.  For having trudged through the low valleys of challenge and for having risen on the other side stronger for the experience, we give a second most-improved award to Ben Whitman.

Spirit:

This year’s Spirit Award winner is best described by this post-match summary excerpt from our face-off against St. Paul’s:

“After losing the match’s front side two-down, he entered the second half with new-found focus and dogged determination – in doing so, he won the first hole of the back side, then the second, then the fourth after losing the third.  The Laker Iceman had officially plowed his way back into contention - and the reigns that were firmly in his grasp would not be released.  He would go on to win both the back and total matches, after an amazing showing on the final hole - a long par five guarded by water, sand and trees.  With the weight of the match’s outcome on his shoulders, his drive split the fairway; and after a recovery from a miss-hit approach sailed the green, the first-year squad member found himself facing a down-hill pitch shot from the tall grass to a green guarded long by a water hazard.  With steely determination, he played an explosion shot that a hoisted skyward a mass of dirt and dormant grass as well as the golf ball - in execution of a perfect shot that landed on the fringe before rolling to within fifteen feet of the cup.  The Iceman had cometh – and had rallied from a two-down position to win the back and total points for the Lakers.  The Crusaders had been defeated.  Boys’ Latin had for the first time since joining the A Conference, beaten perennial contender St. Paul’s.”

He was like that all season.  Collected.  Steely.  Resolved.  Determined.  Focused.  He reflected the attributes of a man of purpose; and he balanced the spirit of competition with the integrity of sportsmanship.  This year’s spirit award goes to Neill Peck.

Most Valuable Player:

Two years ago, I got a phone call from the school asking me to reach out to a family who was interested in sending their son to Boys’ Latin.  The kid was heading into 8^th grade, an avid golfer, and was resting his final decision in large part on the associated golf programs of his final two choices – St. Paul’s and Boys’ Latin.  I agreed to meet with the young man and his parents; and hung up the phone with sizable hope and a raised heartbeat.  I am proud to say that following a few meetings and discussions, the young man chose to be a Laker over a Crusader – and even more proud of his development since that decision was anchored.  He would enter our middle school game improvement program and become its first graduate in 2008.  He would compete in stroke play championships in the off-season and become the youngest-ever to qualify for the Club Championship at Hayfields.  He would travel with us to Bald Head Island, Saucon Valley and La Quinta, hone his game with focus and discipline, attain a comprehensive understanding of his own strengths and weaknesses – and mature into the fastest rising star in the conference through his showing as the team’s top starter in 2009.  He played #1 and #2 for Boys’ Latin all season – and won 8 of 11 matches against the conference’s best.  He became the youngest Laker to advance to the Individual Championship finals after firing a 76 at Hunt Valley Country Club – and his tie for 12^th place in that tournament was bested by only one other freshman in the MIAA.  He was selected All MIAA by conference coaches, and has been affirmed in his place as one of the league’s finest competitors.  Along the way, he served as good counsel to teammates – providing regular affirmation and encouragement to all he encountered.  He is a young man of strong character and well-anchored purpose.  And at day’s end, it is the peace he carries about him that yields his sizable achievements.  For that and so much more, your Most Valuable Player is Will Guy.      

Henry Lubke Award:

Nearly two years ago, 2005 Boys’ Latin Graduate and Laker Golf Alumnus Henry Lubke passed away tragically, in his sleep, from a dialated cardiomyopothy.

When I take pause to remember Henry, I recall a young man of resolve and of passion.  I remember his work ethic – and maintain a burning mental image of him closing a long practice session by hitting five irons into the setting sun at Suburban, his the lone presence on an otherwise closed driving range, the crisp sound of well-struck shots interjected into his whistle-while-you-work tune of choice.

I also think of sportsmanship when I reflect on Henry.  I think of integrity.  I remember him standing for what was right and what was fair – never accepting an unfair edge or embracing an opportunity that wasn’t steeped in truth.  I remember his kind words to teammates and his affirming mannerisms.

I remember Henry as a coach should remember one of his finest players.  As a young man of sound character and great promise.  And I am so sad he is gone.

To honor his time with us, and to serve his legacy, we incepted last year the Henry Lubke Award for Sportsmanship and Integrity.  It reads as follows:

“Given to a Boys’ Latin Golf Team member who displays character traits of intention, purpose and discipline; who carries himself as a gentleman on and off the golf course; and who acts in a manner that is consistent with the spirit of the game and its associated values.”

 
This year we are proud to give the Henry Lubke Award for Sportsmanship & Integrity to Laker Freshman Will Guy.


2008 Off-Season Tournament Results

Congratulations to Laker Bennett Wisner for being named the Elite Players Tour 2008 Player of the Year!
Bennett secured his #1 ranking on the Tour by defending his position in the National Championship at Bulle Rock.  This is the first time a Laker has been named Player of the Year by the Elite Players Tour and represents a significant victory for both Bennett and the School.  Congratulations Wiz!

Ben Whitman secured a third place finish at the Titleist Junior Tour Championship at Sparrow's Point on August 1st.  The 2008 Laker Golf Team Co-Captain played the back nine at one-under-par en route to firing a 75 across the challenging layout.  The tournament was won by Laker Golf Alumnus Patrick Hohman, who shot a one-over-par 73 to take the title.  Well done Ben & Patrick!

Bennett Wisner won the Greystone EPT Open on July 30th and the Marlton Open on July 24th.  The Laker Golf Shadow Program member has performed at remarkable levels, and has anchored himself as one of the finest young players in the State.  Congratulations Bennett!


Congratulations to Varsity Team member, Sammy Dunbar for his T-3rd Place finish in The Baltimore Junior Tour Championship at The Woodlands on July 7th.  Combining accuracy off the tee (10 fairways hit) with a hot putter (32 total putts), Dunbar notched his best finish in a tournament since joining the Team two years ago.  Way to go Sammy!

Laker Varsity Team Member and 2008 Henry Lubke Sportsmanship Award Winner Matt Sherman recently attended a Leadership Conference at Harvard University.  Inclusion in the conference was by invitation-only and found Sherman continuing in his development of interpersonal and motivational skills.  Keep up the great work, Matt!

Laker Golf Shadow Program Member, Bennett Wisner won a sudden-death playoff en route to notching victory at the Beechtree Open on July 21st.  Hosted by The Elite Players Tour and sponsored by Linens of the Week, The Beechtree Open is another significant win for the Laker rising star.  Great job Wiz!

Ben Whitman recorded rounds of 76-73 to finish tied for 11th in the Maryland State Junior Championship held June 23rd & 24th at Andrews Air Force Base.  The five-over-par total included eight birdies across the challenging East Course.  Great job Whitty!

Bennett Wisner fired a 78 at Wyncote Golf Club in Oxford, Pennsylvania to tie for 1st before losing in a playoff in the U.S. Kids World Championship Qualifier on June 18th. The showing one of the finest performances yet from the 11 year old rising star.

Congratulations to Ben Whitman for his victory at The Hunter's Oak Classic, a tournament hosted by the Mid Atlantic PGA Titleist Junior Tour.  The 2008 Team Co-Captain recorded three birdies en route to shooting one-under-par 71, securing victory by a five shot margin.  Congtatulations Ben!

Bennett Wisner finished tied for 5th after shooting 89 in the U.S. Kids World Championship Qualifier at Wild Quail Golf & Country Club in Wyoming, Delaware on June 25th.  Good job, Bennett!

Ben Whitman won the MAPGA Titleist Junior Tour Green Yacht Country Club Classic.  Battling the elements, Whitman shot 77 and notched victory by one shot for his first tournament win of the '08 Summer Season.  Well done Ben!

The Baltimore Sun has named Patrick Hohman as 2008 All-Metro Boys Golfer of the Year!
Details can be found via the following link:
http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/highschool/bal-va.bgolfplayer04jun04,0,1611148.story

Congratulations to Bennett Wisner for winning the 2008 Nittany Lion Open at the Penn State Golf Courses!  Fresh off his victory at the Virginia Beach National Open, the Laker Golf Shadow Program member shot a two-round total of 179 to collect his second win of the season.  Attaboy Wiz!

Congratulations to Ben Whitman for becoming the youngest Laker to notch a top ten finish in the MIAA Individual Stroke Play Championship.  Ben's performance as a Sophomore offered reinforcement of his position as one of the conference's top rising stars.  Great job Whitty!

Congratulations to Patrick Hohman for winning the MIAA Individual Stroke Play Championship!
Patrick finished atop a full field of the conference's finest players in the season's only stroke-play event.  Click on "Post Match Summaries" for details of Patrick's memorable win.

Fresh off his victory in the Stroke Play Championship, Patrick Hohman represented Boys' Latin in the Baltimore / Washington Senior All Star Challenge at Towson Golf & Country Club on May 28th.  Patrick collected 2 out of 3 points against his opponent, as Team Baltimore triumphed over Washington 12.5 to 11.5.  Way to go Pat!

Bennett Wisner has been named to both the FCWT Junior Tour All American Team and the Faces of the Future Team.  Victories at both the Virginia Beach National Open and the Nittany Lion open helped the Laker Shadow Team Member secure this prestigious honor.  Great job Bennett!


2008 Boys' Latin Athletic Banquet
Award Recipients

Team Captains:

 Two Team Captains were selected this year that combined leadership talents of affirmation with those of positive example.
They led the team with this unique marriage of style quite efficiently.  One was a third year starter and president of his Junior class; the other was a second-year starter who quietly climbed the ranks of the Conference’s top ten players.

For their leadership in 2008, the Laker Golf Team recognizes Co-Captains Ben Whitman and Gates Blair.

Most Improved Player:

As a freshman, this Laker arrived with an odd combination of good-heart and bad-golf – the type of young man that would struggle to earn a spot without his outward reflection of intention and commitment.  His scoring average at that time hovered in the mid-120s, and his 7 iron distance topped out at around 100 yards.  His clubs were older than he was and he didn’t own a pair of golf shoes.  But…he had a strong work ethic, a team-first attitude, and a desire to make a difference.  He was intentional, driven, and competitive – but also caring, inclusive, and affirming to teammates.  He spent his off-season cutting weight, shaping up, working on his game, and improving through individual and group instruction.  He participated in pre-season strategy sessions and work outs, and made the varsity squad cut with a power-ranking of 8 out of a peer group of 20.  By mid-season, he had worked his way higher in ranking, penetrating into the ranks of the starting six – and in the end, competed in roughly half of the season’s matches.  He leveraged a strong knowledge base of the rules and managed his game based on his own strengths rather than those of his competitor.  By season-end, this once 125-shooter was consistently recording the scores of a 17 handicap – notching rounds in the upper 80’s with regularity and handily defeating conference veterans with twice his competitive experience.

For his unprecedented improvement and climb toward the top; for giving his best day in and day out; for failing to settle for anything less than everything he can give – we recognize the efforts of Sophomore Matt Sherman as our Most Improved Player.

  The Spirit Award:  

Intention is an important concept – both in golf and in life.  To be intentional is to understand that everything we do matters – that difference, big and small, can be made by our actions.  To remain intentional is to remain focused, determined in our efforts to impact and progress.  This is a concept that defines the spirit of our team. 

 Two individuals share the honor of praise for their spirit this evening.  Both are Sophomores and both represent the attitude of intention behind our success.  Each leads with quiet confidence and firm resolve.  Each dedicates as much effort and focus to their last shot as to their first.  Each understands that though he is strong individually, his truest strength comes from the collective efforts of his team.  Each recognizes that his purpose is strong and his calling is great – and that in the time he’s been given, he will act with integrity in pursuit of virtue.  

The teammates recognized this evening for their spirit are Brenden Schwartz and Ben Whitman. 
 

Most Valuable Player: 
 

In one of his classic ballads, Johnny Cash once described a determined character as having “gravel in the gut and spit in the eye.”  This expression of grit and sticktoitiveness aptly represents this season’s Most Valuable Player.  Upon arriving as lanky freshman, this Laker maintained an upper 90s scoring average with a lashing swing and a never-say-die attitude.  As a sophomore, he moved from the 6 man position to the 2^nd slot in the line-up – and progressed to the top position throughout his junior and senior years, with a scoring average that dropped swiftly to the low 70’s.  His progression from 25 handicap to scratch was the manifestation of the fruits of firm resolve and bold intention.  In combining above average talent with unprecedented work ethic, he embodied all that was the effort-over-achievement philosophy.  His swing was efficient at the expense of sexy.  His demeanor reflected a quiet confidence that balanced assurance with unrest – tight-lipped conviction crossed with wide-eyed boldness.  And while all others around him were focused on the natural swings and loud boastings of his peers, he covertly and effectively climbed every rung of the ladder – until invariably, he was at its top. 

 His talents no longer a secret, this Laker Senior was the top point earner for the Team this season.  Last year, he became the first Laker since joining the A Conference to notch a top 10 in the MIAA Individual Stroke Play Championship – the only stroke play event of the year, and one that finds all A&B Conference schools fielding their top players.  This year he became the first Laker to win the tournament – eagling the final hole to record a final round 73 and subsequently winning a sudden death play-off.  He competed and won his match in the Baltimore / Washington Senior Challenge this past Wednesday.  He was named for the second consecutive year to the All MIAA Team.  And within the next few days he will be announced as the Baltimore Sun’s All-Metro Boys Golfer of the Year.  And when the dust of celebration settles, he’ll be off to Methodist University to pursue his dream of becoming a PGA Professional.  

 His accomplishments are admirable, but his effort has brought him to this stage.  For his growth on and off the golf course, for his dogged determination and his unwavering discipline, and for the gravel in his gut and the spit in his eye, we salute the efforts of this year’s MVP – Patrick Hohman.
 
The Henry Lubke Award: 

Late last year, 2005 Boys’ Latin Graduate and Laker Golf Alumnus Henry Lubke tragically passed away, in his sleep, from a dialated cardiomyopothy.  Henry was a young man of great promise who left us too early but not without making an impression on our hearts and souls.  His presence on the golf team was one that regularly yielded laughter and admiration from his peers.  His work ethic was remarkable – it was not uncommon for him to be the last person to leave the range, or grind his way back into contention from positions where other competitors would have given up.  It was this attitude of resilience that found Henry dropping more than 40 shots in his scoring average during his senior year - and therefore in subsequent receipt of the Most Improved Award at this same banquet just three years ago. 

Remembering Henry is to remember a young man who operated with a sense of purpose and integrity - a teammate who appreciated friendship and valued his blessings. His unique personality yielded an off-beat brand of humor…He carried a ladies lob wedge because he liked its name (“The Crystal Cat”), always referred to himself on the course as “The Butcher,” built a fire pit in his backyard just to pass the time, and never failed to laugh at his own jokes.  He never threw a club in anger, never laughed at another’s expense, and always arrived on game day with a hat pulled low and a fire in his belly. 

He was the consummate teammate.  He was a gentleman.  His actions reflected sportsmanship and the game’s true spirit.  And in the end, though his heart may have failed him…it wasn’t for lack of compassion. 

The Laker Golf Team is honored to incept an award this year in Henry’s Name.  The Henry Lubke Award for Sportsmanship and Integrity will be presented annually and bear these words: 

“Given to a Boys’ Latin Golf Team member who displays character traits of intention, purpose and discipline; who carries himself as a gentleman on and off the golf course; and who acts in a manner that is consistent with the spirit of the game and its associated values.” 

This year, for his reflection of the same virtues that made Henry Lubke’s legacy so lasting, we are proud to bestow this honor to Laker Sophomore Matt Sherman.  

2007 Boys' Latin Athletic Banquet
Award Recipients


Shot of the Year

He knew the match was on the line when he teed it up on the final hole at Old South Country Club. He knew that he had to halve the final hole in order to secure victory against St. Mary’s. But Laker Freshman A.J. Billig’s approach shot flew the green and nestled in thick rough over the green’s right side. His opponent had hit the green, however – and was slated to par the hole. Focusing on execution, rather than doubt, A.J. hit a miraculous chip shot to within 4 feet of the hole. His hands shaking as he addressed the putt, he proceeded to drain it for a par four on the final hole and a victory for the match. A.J. Billig should therefore be praised for Laker Golf Shot of the Year. 

Never Quit Award

 Coming off of a fantastic first season, freshman Ben Whitman was one of six Lakers to be invited to participate in the MIAA Individual Championship. Round One was held at Mt. Pleasant Golf Course in Baltimore – and found Whitman struggling on the course’s front nine. Ben shot 47 on the front nine – 9 shots above his nine hole scoring average for the season. He struggled to find the fairway, he stumbled with his approach shots, and he grappled with a faulty putting stroke. But that was nothing compared with what Ben would face on the 10th hole. After hitting his tee shot, Ben found himself dizzy and feeling faint. He felt his face and realized that his nose was bleeding. It didn't take long for others to notice and within a short time period, officials were tending to Ben - assisting him and inquiring relative to his decision to continue to play or withdrawl in light of his condition. Determined, Ben refused to quit. His shirt, pants and towel stained with blood, he refocused and rededicated himself to the back nine...and fought his way back into contention. Ben shot 39 on the incoming nine holes – narrowly missing the cut by 2 shots – and in doing so staged one of the hardest-fought and most admirable turn-arounds in MIAA Individual Tournament recent history. He had every opportunity to quit. Every chance to call it a day. Blood on his shirt. Blood on his towel. Blood on his pants. But he didn’t give up. He played on. And it was an amazing thing to witness this grimy, bloody, gritty Laker claw his way back up the leaderboard. Quite honestly, it was absolutely awesome. Good job Ben.

Team Captain

The Lakers are led by a young man of quite confidence – steadfast in his dedication to improvement, and firm in his intention to taste victory. He never questions his own ability and rarely does a challenge seem too formidable for his determination. He is always hungry to win – and remains the most internally-driven individual that I have yet to coach. He has started for the Lakers in every match since joining the Varsity squad as a freshman three seasons ago. In that time, his scoring average has dropped more than 17 shots – and as the strokes have fallen, so has his placement in the starting line-up climbed. This year he led the Lakers as their Captain – and did so with the same quiet confidence that has served him so well in the past. Team members learned from his example, and modeled their own individual successes in part from his example. The Team is better for having Patrick Hohman as its Captain – and is proud to recognize him tonight for his dedication to achievement on and off the course.

Most Valuable Player(s)

These two individuals combined to form one of the toughest one-two punches in the A Conference this season. Playing first and second in the starting line-up, they turned more than a few heads this year with their creative shot-making and scoring ability. 

The first recipient has been a staple of the Laker Golf Squad for three seasons – and continued his fine record of play in 2007 as the Team’s #1 player for each match of the year. His scoring average was the lowest on the team, and he led the team in multiple statistical categories – including greens hit in regulation, and average number of putts. At season’s end, he continued to turn heads and charged through the MIAA Individual Tournament, avoiding two cuts and finishing tied for 10th in the Conference. He was the Team Captain, the Top Player, and one of the Conference’s finest champions - Mr. Patrick Hohman

The Second MVP recipient wasted no time establishing his value during his first year as a Laker Golf Team member. As a Freshman, he arrived with the ability to play in the Varsity Squad’s #2 position. His commitment to improvement and his desire to develop seemed only to grow with each practice and match. Strokes began to drop from his already low scoring average – and at year’s end, nearly ten shots were removed from his competitive average. His ability confounded the competition regularly, and he was on the victorious side of countless upsets. He won more points than any other team member this season, and was at or near the top in every statistical category. All in all, he had the most successful freshman season in Team history – and stands to continue his achievements in the years ahead. The second Team MVP for 2007 is Ben Whitman.

Most Improved

This Laker freshman arrived to try-outs with a scoring average of 115 – not quite enough to make the starting squad. But the coaches recognized within him a heightened level of talent – and granted him a Varsity slot in order to work closely with him throughout the season. By mid season, he had dropped no less than 22 shots in his scoring average – and had worked his way into the starting line-up as the team’s sixth-ranked player. His desire to improve, staunch work ethic, and never-say-die attitude combine with a fluid golf swing to form one of the team’s brightest future stars. Today’s most improved player promises to be tomorrow’s most valuable. For his substantial development, the Golf Team is proud to recognize Brenden Schwartz.

Spirit Award

The last two weeks of the season found the Lakers sidelined with sickness – and in no less than four matches, it appeared questionable whether we would field a team, let alone be competitive. Nearly three-quarters of the team was embattled by illness – and team members were under doctor’s orders to remain home to rest and heal. Those two weeks presented themselves as being full of sorrow and disappointment – what good could possible come out of the inability to field a healthy squad? But as is sometimes the case, unique lessons were produced from adversity – including a rarely-seen reflection of true team spirit. The team’s third-ranked player found himself fully sidelined for two of the season’s most critical matches (against both Calvert Hall and Loyola). And though they played valiantly, the team came up short of victory in his absence. Recognizing the true impact of his removal from the line-up, he vowed to play in light of his illness in a crucial match against John Carroll. When he arrived to the course that day, his face flushed pale, his voice a gravely wheeze, and his every step heavy from physical weakness, he said to the coaches “I’m not 100%. But I’m ready.” The coaches weren’t the only ones to find this attitude inspirational – the entire starting squad lifted their games that afternoon due in large part to their teammate’s dedication – and defeated John Carroll in classic fashion. When the match had concluded, and the team collected to celebrate their victory – the support expressed for the spirit of one particular teammate was unanimous. In playing hurt, this teammate had reflected a true posture of dedication to his team – and inspired those around him to new levels of achievement. In recognition of this specific example of spirit, as well as an overall attitude of unprecedented focus and intention, the Golf Team is proud to give the Spirit Award to Kevin Foreman.