Listen HereBy: Collin Frazier
frazierc@findlay.edu
@Collin_53
Although the G-MAC has postponed all contact sports until spring 2021, non-contact sports are still a “go”. One of the sports that will still happen at the University of Findlay during the fall is men’s and women’s golf.
While Head Coach Dominic Guarnieri is excited that the season is happening, it goes without saying that there was some concern going through his head. Some new rule changes were put into place for the safety of the players, both during tournaments and practices.
“[Even with the season starting, there is] always a little bit of a concern,” said Guarnieri. “The one positive was that golf had resumed around the nation for summer tournaments. [Some rule changes will include] most likely no pulling the pins, no rakes in the bunkers, and the rules could change from course to course where it usually is uniform across the board. Practices will be slightly different just being more cautious of spacing. The one thing is that golf is outside and always spread out so that helps.”
As stated in previous articles, graduates that missed out on part of their final season as a student-athlete were allowed the opportunity to return to Findlay and participate in one more season. Oiler Golf is welcoming back three players, all with much experience.
“We have three total [players], Meredith Wipper, Sam Griffith, Luke Kelly all returning for another year,” Guarnieri stated. “They will be able to play in both the fall and the spring. There is so much they will add to the team. They were all in our top 5 last year on their respective teams. So to have another year of maturity and leadership under their belt will be extremely important. We couldn’t be more excited to have the three of them back for another year.”
Along with the three returning players, COVID-19 has also allowed players to display something else; their resiliency.
“All of the players have stayed positive,: Guarnieri said. “This group is really something special and I think it is going to show more than ever this year.”
“We, as a program, are extremely excited for the 20-21 season,” Guarnieri stated. “Our expectations remain the same. One goal —get better and closer as a team every day. I believe there is no limit to what both teams can accomplish this year.”
The men’s team begin its 2020 season September 21 at the Doc Spragg Invitational at the Findlay Country Club, and the Lady Oilers begin their season October 5 at the William Beall Fall Invitational at the Findlay Country Club.
Meredith Wipper Sam Griffith Luke Kelly
