Country Day’s golf team placed second in its first league match of the season with a score of 255, 15 strokes behind first place team Sacramento Adventist Academy who scored 240. The April 19 match was a nine-hole game at Peach Tree Country Club in Marysville.

Six of Country Day’s 16-member team were chosen to play at the match. 

“I thought they all played solid,” said team coach and Athletic Director Matt Vargo. “It was a beautiful day and the greens were challenging; they were super fast. It was fun.”

Both junior Alex Shuler and senior Samrath Pannu were 12 over par,  tying for the Cavs’ top score. 

Due to a sprained ankle, senior Jacob Chand was unable to play. Sophomore Manny Biddle took  his place. 

New to the competition, Biddle shot 35 over par.  Vargo was happy that Biddle was out on the course and learning how the competition works.

“I’ve been playing golf at the school since sixth grade, but then COVID-19 hit,” Biddle said. “I didn’t play last year, but now it’s nice to get to play in a match this year.”

If he plays in the next match, Biddle said he would like to improve his course management and chipping.

“Once we got to the course, we were able to practice at the Country Club before the match,” Biddle said. 

As this was the first league match, Vargo saw areas the students can work on to enhance their skills. 

“We needed to improve on our short game, putting and chipping,” Vargo said. He is confident that the players will improve with practice. 

The Cavs’ next match is April 24 at Cypress Lakes in Vacaville.

— By Anisha Mondal