As the Whitehall golf season heads down the back stretch, they're looking to qualify as many players as possible for the district playoffs.

Right now senior Loran Pritchard has the inside track among the Zephyr players, averaging an 86 so far this season.

"Loran is in a good position to qualify for districts," said head coach John Conrad who is in the middle of his first season as the golf coach.

Conrad said that right now she's looking to improve that average, polishing her game so she can knock off a few strokes every time she plays.

"She's very capable of doing that," said Conrad.

Conrad said it's a matter of getting "all aspects of her game clicking." Pritchard is no stranger to postseason play, finishing third last year in District XI.

"I'm looking for Loran to do well in districts," Conrad said.

Another player with a shot is Patrick Glasgow. Conrad said he's shooting in the high 80s, low 90s, and must trim that average to get into the tourney. Conrad said the junior has the ability to make the cut; however, he just may run out of matches to qualify for the tournament.

Still, he's been a solid performer all season for the maroon and gold.

Senior Brian Mittura has improved by leaps and bounds since he first strolled onto the links as a varsity golfer. Conrad said that in his conversation with former coach Curt Beer, the progression of Mittura's game has steadily evolved.

"He's come a long way," said Conrad. "He's not far from being a good golfer. I just wish I could keep him around. He's a good kid."

As for Chase Hutterer, Conrad said the sophomore probably plays more golf than anyone on the team. Conrad indicated that it's not unusual for Hutterer to text him scores from a round he played with family members.

"He'll get better as long as he keeps that up," said Conrad.

Conrad has also been on the recruiting trail, adding two more golfers to the fold this season. As the high school gym teacher, Conrad said he has ample opportunity to extol the virtues of golf to a wide range of students that pass through the gymnasium doors.

Noah Zahvadnik was one of those students, joining the team and playing in their last match. Conrad said it's important to get players when they're young.

In what he has seen so far, Conrad said that Zahvadnik has "bought into" improving his game in the offseason.

"I think he's going to be pretty good," said Conrad.

Another new member is Shawn Jacob who has recently joined the team, showing some skill in practice, according to Conrad. Conrad said Jacob demonstrated good athletic ability, making "good contact on the range."

Conrad's mission is still to get the program stronger. He wants to generate as much excitement as he can for the game, utilizing his rapport with many of the students who have known him since middle school.

"Hopefully, I can create a buzz," said Conrad.