Pitt-Johnstown’s men’s golf team opened their season Sunday against Clarion University at Treasure Lake Resort, Dubois, Pa.
The team has increased in their roster number compared with last year, according to sophomore Nolan Link.
“We have a few new teammates joining us this year,” said Link.
“I am excited for to get a chance to play in some tournaments and gain some experience.”
Last season, the Mountain Cats stood in 13th place at the California (Pa.) University Invitational, 7th place at the Clarion (Pa.) University Hal Hanson Invitational and tied for 15th place at the Mercyhurst (Pa.) Fall Invitational.
The Mountain Cats also won 8th at the 2016 Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference championships, 14th at the West Liberty (W. Va.) University Hilltopper Inviational and 12th place at the West Chester (Pa.) University Invitational.
According to Link, competing with the top teams in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference is a main goal for the team this season.
“For the team, I just hope that everyone plays to the best of their ability,” said Link.
“If we can do that, then we can compete with the top teams in the conference.”
Sophomore Mike Gerger said he would like to see some good finishes for the team this fall.
“We would like to have a few top three finishes in our fall tournaments.
While tying for 69th place at the Mercyhurst (Pa.) Invitational, and tying for 68th place at the West Liberty (W. Va.) invitational last season, Link said he has room to improve and that will come from staying focused.
“I think the biggest challenge for me is staying focused and playing smart golf,” said Link.
“I have a bad hole sometimes, so it is important to let that go and move onto the next.”
Individually Gerger said he would like the experienced players have some top finishes.
“I would like to see some top five finishes for our more expirenced guys this year,” said Gerger.
The Mountain Cats are to compete again Monday in Elkins (W. Va.), at the Davis and Elkins Wally Edgall Collegiate Championship Invitational.
Next month, the Mountain Cats are to face the Gannon Knights at the Gannon Howard “Bud” Elwell Classic in Erie (Pa.) on Oct. 1, then are to follow that by attending the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Championships on Oct 20 in Hershey.