The Orange Lutheran boys golf team has returned to Black Gold Golf Club and is ready for the spring season.

 

After a third place finish in Trinity League last year, the Lancers have their eyes on the top spot, and OLu boys golf head coach Darren Kelso believes this year’s group has the right mix of skill and leadership to make that happen.

 

“We are definitely hoping to win the Trinity League this year,” says Kelso. “We will have to play really well, but it is definitely in the realm of what we could do this year.”

 

Kelso and the coaching staff will be looking to the captains, senior Ian Shahwan and junior Cooper Nelson, to set the tone for the 30 Lancer golfers across the three teams in the program. The two are coming off of All-League selections last year and have shown commitment and dedication in their leadership roles.

 

“They are exceptional young men in every way possible,” says Kelso of Shahwan and Nelson.

 

Additionally, Kelso predicts strong seasons from junior Johnny Rasmussen and sophomore John Karges. With OLu slotted for CIF-SS Division 2 this year, Kelso expects the Lancers will have a great shot at not only winning league, but bringing home a CIF title.

 

The road to the championship begins this week as OLu participates in the Servite Invitational on February 27. Also on the schedule this season is the Champions Invitational held at Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort in Palm Springs beginning April 3. The Lancers are aiming for a top 10 finish during their trip to the desert in what is considered one of the best high school tournaments in the country.

 

With a talented eight-golfer varsity squad and strong leadership from Shahwan and Nelson, Kelso believes that achieving their goals is within reach.

 

“My varsity (golfers) are exceptional kids and fun to be around,” says Kelso. “In setting the table for the leadership of our program, Ian and Cooper have really taken to it. It’s going to be exciting to see.”