The men’s golf team currently prepares to play in its first tournament of the season. The team is scheduled to play at Pebble Brook Golf Club on March 30 against Hamilton Southeastern (HSE) and Westfield.

Kevin Brown, second-ranked player on the team and senior, said, “We seem to be playing pretty well as a team. I think we are capable of winning (the tournament).”

According to Head Coach Chad Carr, HSE is one of Carmel’s greatest rivals. Last season, in a match up against HSE and Westfield, the Hounds prevailed with a score of 151 to HSE’s 160 and Westfield’s 177. Co-medalists of the tournament included current seniors Grant Meade and Connor O’Neal, along with HSE’s Wes Bowman.

Carr said all of the participants have returned this season, including Meade and O’Neal. According to Carr, who is starting his third season as head coach, this is one of the team’s advantages. “We have a lot of returning players who have plenty of tournament experience and success,” he said.

Brown agreed with Carr. He said, “ It’s definitely an advantage because we are all experienced in the tournament and in tough situations.”

Carr said the team’s biggest obstacle is getting back into the game after the time off.  “It’s really tough,” said Brown. “It’s hard with the the weather. I think we were all pretty rusty, but we have been playing every day and I think we are back in our groove now.”

Carr said the team’s first big tournament is the Spring Preview, which is scheduled to take place on April 17 at Legends Golf Club.

Carr said although there are many good teams throughout Indiana, including Brebeuf, Evansville North and HSE, the team’s biggest rival is themselves. However, Carr has a lot of confidence in this year’s team. “I believe we are going to put our best effort into every practice session, match or tournament we play in.  I am confident we will have success based on our work ethic.” By Alex Mackall <[email protected]>