Lander Men’s Golf 2016
by John Jordan,
Heading into his 12th year as the Men’s Head Golf Coach at Lander University, Roger “Chipper” Bagwell is expecting this year’s team to be one of his best. “I’m very excited about this year’s team”, Bagwell said. “We have two seniors returning this season, Jordan Ainley and Michal Pospisil, who will be very important to the team as a whole.”
This season’s roster is composed of nine players, up from the six players on the team last year. Along with the two seniors, everyone from last year’s roster is returning. The team also welcomes three freshmen to its roster, Conor Richards, Robert Garagorri, and local recent Greenwood High School graduate Jon Parker. When asked about the start of his college career, Parker stated, “It’s always been a goal of mine to play college golf so I’m very excited.” “Lander has a great golf program and after only one week of school, I’m very happy with my decision to play golf here.”
Having nine solid players on the roster this season helps the team prepare with lots of competition during practice and qualifying rounds. As far as season goals are concerned, Bagwell stated, “The ultimate goal every year is to win a national championship.” Bagwell knows that winning the Peach Belt Conference and moving on to regionals will only help the team achieve their ultimate goal.
This year’s regular season will kick off September 19th and 20th at the World Golf Village in St. Augustine, Florida, and conclude March 27th and 28th in Greenwood where Lander hosts the Bearcat Golf Classic at Greenwood Country Club.