Charlie Nikitas couldn’t believe the Glenbrook South boys golf team hasn’t won a regional title in his lifetime.
“Oh wow,” the Titans junior said when told the last one came in 1991. “We are definitely looking to change that this year.”
With Nikitas at the top of the lineup, the Titans are well-positioned to contend for a regional championship and then for the program’s first trip to the state tournament since 2005.
So far, indications are good that Glenbrook South will enjoy an extended stay in the state series.
At Deerfield’s tournament on Saturday, Sept. 12, the Titans shot a 14-over 294 to take first place. After last weekend, the Titans have won three of the four 18-hole invitationals they’ve played in and finished sixth in the other.
“We had a solid year last year, and we only graduated two seniors,” Nikitas said. “We had a feeling we could play well together this year. We sort of knew we could win some tournaments. We’ve started off strong, and it’s giving us confidence.”
Nikitas has finished first in all three of Glenbrook South’s wins and he took fourth in the other. Nikitas won the individual title in a playoff on Saturday, Sept. 12, after posting a 1-under 69 at Twin Orchard Country Club in Long Grove. He beat Deerfield’s Jacob Krugman in a playoff.
“Charlie has been our best player, but our depth is good,” Glenbrook South coach Steve Gale said. “We have a lead horse, but there are plenty of players behind him who can put up good numbers.”
Even though senior Grant Reese missed Deerfield’s tournament because he was taking the ACT, the Titans beat Loyola by five strokes. Reese tied for 26th (154) at last year’s Class 3A state tournament and Nikitas tied for 67th (163).
“We have some kids who are really putting up some good numbers this year,” Reese said. “We definitely will make a run for the state tournament. We are confident we have the team to do it this year.”
Following Nikitas at Twin Orchard were senior Patrick Garden, junior Kevin Paek and sophomore Jarrett Prchal, all of whom shot 75s. Although six players compete in a varsity meet, Gale said he has many more who merit being considered for the lineup. Other Titans in the mix this season include seniors Nick Campobasso, Chris Andrew, Scott Okuno and Billy Almond. Juniors who have contributed are Robert Hopkins and Scott Merdinger.
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“To be a good team, you have to rely on one another,” Gale said. “That’s what we are about this year.”
Twitter: @harnesspreps