Wayne Christian wins state golf title

By News-Argus Staff
Published in Sports on May 12, 2005 2:17 PM

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PINEHURST -- The third time is the charm.

Runner-up each of the past two seasons, the Wayne Christian men's golf team seized the ultimate prize Tuesday afternoon at Fox Fire Resort. Jonathan Greene finished third overall in individual play and helped the Eagles claim the N.C. Independent Schools Athletic Association Class 1-A championship.

"Two years ago, we were just happy to be there," said fourth-year Eagles coach Clarence Rose. "Last year, the guys were disappointed with second place. This year they had a lot of expectations and knew this would be another chance to win it.

"It's very satisfying to see these guys get it themselves."

Wayne Christian fashioned a two-day, four-player total of 644 on the par-72 course. Greene carded a 152 and earned all-state honors. Chad Smith tied for 14th overall and Clark Rose ended up 15th.

Matt Davis tied Village Christian's Brandon Jobe for 18th.

The Eagles defeated Covenant Christian of Matthews by 18 strokes in team play. Cresset Christian, the first-day leader, finished with a 669. Rounding out the eight-team field were Northeast Academy (697), High Point Christian (702), Rocky Mount Academy (703), Lawrence Academy (713) and Hobgood Academy (713).

Wayne Christian, ranked No. 1 heading into the two-day tournament, trailed Cresset by one stroke after the first 18-hole round. Rose said Cresset's golfers used a conversative approach and played the course short.

Meanwhile, the Eagles spent more time hitting from the trees on the first day.

"The course required demanding tee shots because it was tight," Rose said. "The first day we hit from the trees instead of the fairways. I told the guys they didn't need to pull out that driver on every hole, unless they felt comfortable hitting it.

"But the next day we played decent ... played like we have shot all year."

The Eagles trimmed 12 strokes off their score, including a 3-over par from Greene.

"Jon is the one we have depended on for good scores all season," Rose said of his lone senior and four-year starter. "He has done well."

Rose returns a solid nucleus for next season and said expectations will probably be the same. The Eagles finished 18-3 this spring, including a 16-0 worksheet against Carolina Christian Conference opposition. They've won all four CCC titles during Rose's tenure.