Golf team advances to nationals
By John Baracani
The 1999 golf season ended with a flourish as Coach Jim Moskalewicz’s squad won the Region IV championship, giving them an automatic berth in the NJCAA Division II National Tournament in Texas next spring.
"This is a great thing for the golf program at IVCC," Moskalewicz said. "We’ve built a strong foundation, and in only two years we’ve made a name for ourselves.
The October 8 and 9 tournament, held at The Ledges Golf Course in Roscoe, IL, saw the Apaches 36-hole total of 604 surpass totals of 622 and 635 by Lake County and Moraine Valley, respectively.
Josh Wheeler led the way, shooting a tournament-low round of 70 to earn Region IV Medalist honors, and finished with a 36-hole total of 145.
"Josh played very well both days, and deserved medalist honors by firing a 70 to close the tournament," said the coach.
"He played intelligent golf, managed his game well, and was rewarded for his solid play."
Following Wheeler were Tom Bartman, who earned Second Medalist status with a total of 150; Brian Stamberger, who shot 155; and B.J. Carlson, who earned a 157.
Wheeler, Bartman, and Stamberger each received All Region honors.
The coach was extremely pleased with the outcome of the season.
"We accomplished so much this year by winning two invitational titles and the Arrowhead Conference title, but winning the Region IV Championship and qualifying for the national tournament validates our entire season," he said.
"The kids should be very proud of themselves."
On September 30 and Oct. 1, the Apaches also picked up a first place finish in the Illinois Valley Invitational at Oak Ridge Golf Course, giving them a final conference record of 4 – 0.
IVCC finished ahead of Rock Valley and Waubonsee with Stamberger leading the way with a 36-hole total of 144, followed by Bartman’s 152, Carlson’s 154, and Wheeler’s 156.
Moskalewicz said that he was happy with the win, and hoped it would give the golfers confidence heading into the Region Tournament.
"I think we established once again that we are the team to beat in Region IV.," he said.