The Delaware County Christian School golf team finished a great season with a regular-season record of 11-3, proving that they are a force to be reckoned with in the BAL. Under Head Coach Jack Mangene, who has been leading the Knights for two years now, they have built a close community that values both the sport and the friendships that it creates. This season, the squad pulled off an extremely close victory against rival Faith Christian Academy, winning by just one stroke—a moment that the players won’t forget anytime soon.

The Knights’ regular season was full of highlights, including two major wins in the same week, each by 68 points. Those victories capped off their season on a high note and gave the team confidence heading into districts. Though their season ended there, the players are already looking ahead to next year.

“Honestly, I think we could’ve gone further this year,” commented junior Alex Sterious, “but it is what it is. We’re coming back next year ready to crush it. We’ve got the talent, for sure.” Alex’s brother, Billy, agreed but kept it simple: “We’re gonna win next year. No doubt.”

With eight players on the 2024 varsity team, the squad is small but mighty. 

“This season was honestly just a blast,” remarked junior Santo Gentile. “Of course, the matches were important, but honestly, some of my favorite times were when we grabbed food after practice. It was just all of us hanging out and not really stressing over golf or school or anything like that for a little while.”

The team’s community has been central to their success, and it’s something senior James Connolly especially valued. “I liked playing with the younger guys,” Connolly said. “As a senior, I love hanging out with the younger guys and making sure they’re well prepared for the future golf seasons.”

The team’s bond was obvious throughout the season, with players always hyping each other up during matches and laughing through practices. Whether it was competing on the course or just hanging out afterward, they proved that their success was more than just skill. “We’re all tight, and that’s what makes it fun,” confessed Santo. “Like, even when things aren’t that easy, we know we’ve got each other.”

While the Knights didn’t get as far as they’d hoped this year, the season was about more than just scores and rankings. It was about the community, the laughs, and the memories—whether on the course or at dinner after practice. Next year, the golf team is focused on taking it all a step further, but right now, they’re enjoying the ride.

Under the second-year tutelage of coaches Mr. Jack Mangene, Mr. Alex McGee, and Mr. Zach Bruecks, the DC golf team possesses extremely high morale and is poised for another playoff push. Led by senior captains James Connolly and Porter Roberts, the squad has experienced considerable success due to a plethora of factors, including a strong team culture and excellent leadership. 

Currently, the golf team is in the midst of an uber-successful season, with a current record of 5-2, and is on pace to finish tied with Faith Christian Academy in the BAL. In the case this does happen, the two squads would go head-to-head in a shoot-off, sending forth their respective five best golfers, with the lowest collective score being victorious. 

This exciting news is no coincidence but can be traced back to the team culture that was established since day one. “The culture of the team is lively and supportive,” explained James. “As a team we are always looking out for one another but always ensure that we are having fun.” 

Another important aspect of the golf team’s culture is the players’ excitement and enthusiasm. “Golf is not regarded as a hype sport; however, the team culture stands apart,” Porter emphasized. “Every match we get amped to get to the course and absolutely dog the other team.” The swag, confidence, and enthusiasm that the golf team shows both on and off the course speaks to the hard work and preparation that they put in at practice.

Additionally, the team’s accomplishments can’t be brought up without mentioning the effective leadership that the coaches pour into the golfers. Enough good things can’t be said about the coaching trio when it comes to their knowledge of the game and the instruction and wisdom that they instill in their players. “They never fail to bring the energy, encourage us, and give us helpful feedback,” James expressed. “They show up to every practice with a well thought plan and actively improve all aspects of our game.” Not only are the coaches able to contribute to the team culture through their energy, but their feedback and practices contribute heavily to player development. Porter put it best: “They are magicians.”

All in all, under superb leadership that inspires a lively team culture, the DC golf team is firing on all cylinders and is eyeing even greater success in the playoffs this year.