By Jackson Mendoza ‘23

When you think of sports at Brother Rice, what comes to your mind first?

Be honest – it wasn’t golf.

Although golf isn’t the marquee sport at Brother Rice, the team continues to make a name for themselves throughout the years. Just this past season, the team traveled to Olympia Fields, La Grange Country Club, Oak Park Country Club, and many more. Many players have been playing outstanding golf and are being recognized for their accomplishments.

Coach Vaughan and Coach Patton are the coaching duo and are two great examples for the players. Coach Vaughan said, “The most important part of coaching is establishing a culture of sportsmanship, accountability and one that is consistent with Brother Rice’s mission.”

Not many golf players have shined as bright as junior Phil Cipriani. During his third season on the golf team, Cipriani earned a spot on the All-Catholic League team. On top of that, Cipriani shot a 73 during regionals and won the tournament by 7 shots. Cipriani earned multiple medals and placed in the top positions in many matches during this past season.

If any sports team is going to succeed, they are going to need a strong leader. Senior Andrew Hoefler served as captain of the golf team during his last season at Brother Rice. Being the captain of a 20 man roster is not an easy task. Senior Andrew Hoefler said, “I had a great time with my teammates and coaches. There was definitely a lot of pressure, but in the long run it helped me grow as a player and allowed me to represent the great group of guys we had.”

As seniors Danny Durkin, Douglas Boyce, and Andrew Hoefler move on to their collegiate careers, the golf team is in great hands. Juniors Pat Hermanson and Kevin McShane both performed at a high level and showed flashes of greatness during matches. Freshman Thor Hock shot a fabulous 77 and finished fourth in the Catholic League championship. The junior varsity team also managed to finish second in the Catholic League championship. There is no shortage of young talent that will keep Brother Rice golf at the top of the leaderboards.

As time goes on, Brother Rice golf will continue to prove why they deserve more school wide recognition. Not only are they the best dressed team in the school, but they play as good as they look. Golf is a wonderful sport that Coach Vaughan and Coach Patton hope to continue to promote throughout their tenure at Brother Rice.