By David Paulsen
SPORTS CORRESPONDENT
With hopes of potentially challenging for a Southern Lakes Conference crown, the Burlington High School boys golf team began its season Friday with a second-place finish at the Wolverine Classic held at Rivermoor Golf Club.
The Demon boys had a 170 team score to finish eight strokes behind Waterford.
“I am happy with a second-place finish,” head coach Bill Berkholtz said. “Waterford is a tough team, especially on their home course.”
Berkholtz said his boys played well in less than favorable weather conditions of cold, rain and wind.
Sophomore Brian Dankle led the Demons with a 39, even though he had an 8 on the first hole – a par four – and a five on the second hole – another par four. Over the remaining seven holes, Dankle shot one under par.
“I was pleased that Brian, considering his rough start, was able to focus and finish well,” Berkholtz said.
Senior Tony Stang finished just one stroke behind Dankle.
“He was faced with a slow group in front of his and he was able to concentrate well enough to finish with a 40,” Berkholtz noted.
Senior Scott Vyhanek carded a 45, junior Ben Geiger a 46, and sophomore Josh Ketterhagen a 50. Ketterhagen’s score did not count toward the team score.
“I think it was a good start and if we can build on the scores we had we can have a nice season,” Berkholtz said.
SLC Boys Major No. 1
The Demons were back at Rivermoor Tuesday for the first SLC boys golf major event of the season.
The Demon golfers placed second in this event, as well. Waterford came out on top with a 336, with Burlington second with a 355.
Dankle once again led the Demons, this time carding an 80, which tied him with Waterford’s Zack Nash for low score. Nash was awarded medalist honors based on tie-breaking criteria. The 18-hole Rivermoor course is a par 70.
Dankle shot a 40 on both nines.
Stang shot an 87 and Vyhanek an 88 to give Burlington three golfers under 90. Ketterhagen’s 100 finished out the team scoring.
Geiger also competed and carded a 106.
On Saturday, the Demons will tee it up at the Milton Invitational held at Bonny Meade Golf Links.
Next week, the SLC Boys Golf Major No. 2 will be held on Tuesday, April 23, at Delbrook Golf Course, Delavan.