NHS boys golf wins first tournament of the season

As the golf season swings back into action, the Niwot High School boys golf team has already made a strong impression. The Cougars kicked off their season on Aug. 8 with a resounding victory at their first tournament, the Holy Family League Event, held at the Eagle Trace Golf Club in Broomfield.

The tournament, which featured both varsity and junior varsity divisions, drew teams from across the league and beyond. In a field of 14 schools, Niwot emerged victorious, showcasing the team's talent and depth.

The varsity squad, consisting of junior Jackson Sessa, senior Drew Stapp, junior Charlie Budacz, senior Jagger Kilpatrick, and junior Will Jones, performed exceptionally well. Sessa led the way with a standout performance, finishing first with an even-par 72.

Budacz secured eighth place with a score of 77, while Kilpatrick and Stapp rounded out the team's top four scores with 79 and 81, respectively. The team's collective effort earned them the top spot in the tournament with Monarch High School in second place and Erie High School in third.

In the JV portion of the tournament, the Cougars continued their dominance, with juniors Joe Weimer and Moses Lance securing first and third place, respectively. Their performances secured a first-place finish, further demonstrating the strength of this year's golf program.

Head Coach Ed Weaver remains optimistic about the season ahead. "We need to keep improving and playing to our full ability," he said.

Niwot's next tournaments will take place on Monday, Aug. 12, with one at the Fox Hill Golf Course in Longmont and the other at the Hyland Hills Golf Course in Greeley, and Tuesday, Aug. 13, with a two-man best ball tournament at the Broadlands Golf Course in Broomfield. Weaver is focused on maintaining momentum throughout the season. "We don't want to drop off like we did last year," Weaver said.

The Cougars' promising start to the season sets the stage for what could be a memorable year.