The two University of Arizona golf programs reached the midpoint of the season, and both probably wish they could keep right on playing through the break. Both teams are in a better position now than they were at this time last year.
The college golf season is a long one…4 matches before a three month winter break…and three or 4 after, followed by league and national tournaments. And based on what we’re seeing, look for the men’s team to finish in the top 3 or 4 in the Pac 12, and look for the women’s team to fight for the top spot in the Pac 12 and threaten another charge at the national championship.
The men’s team is being led by Salpointe grad Trevor Werbylo. He had a hole in one last week to propel him to his second, second place individual finish, this time at last weeks St. Mary’s Invitational. In addition to Werbylo, Buena grad Briggs Duce has recorded some impressive finishes as well. Both are in the top 100 in college rankings for the year. The Cat’s had three third place finishes to go along with a second place finish at the Maui Jim Intercollegiate.
Meanwhile, the women’s team won the recent Pac 12 Preview last week in Hawaii. Five Lady Cats’ finished at even or better, all in the top 20 on the leaderboard. The depth was needed, as the #8 Cats defeated three schools ahead of them in the polls. The team relies on a large number of foreign born players…only Freshman Therese Warner was born stateside, who finished in the top five. And Catalina Foothills star Maya Benita will be trying to crack into the lineup next year, already committing to play for Arizona. Unless some of the players decide to turn pro after this season, look for the Cats to be very strong again next year…no starters are seniors.
