The Whitehall golf team got its first victory of the season, defeating East Stroudsburg North to break into the win column for the first time in two seasons.

“It was a long time coming,” said head coach John Conrad whose team has one more regular season match before they prepare for the league tournament.

The Zephs won 482-584. It was a good team win for the Zephs who are now 1-14 on the year.

Conrad said that the key to winning that match was their consistent play up and down their roster. Everyone who played had a good round, helping them earn that first win.

“It all came together on that one day,” Conrad said. “It’s recognition for the work they’ve been putting in all year.”

Leading the way for the Zephs was Noah Zahradnik who posted an 82 to best the field. Both Chase Hutterer and Ben Antonchak followed with 94s, while Patrick Skinner shot a 98 and Tyler Ringenberger carded a 104.

Conrad said that was probably Zahradnik’s best round of the year. He’s been constantly improving, and managed to put it all together on that day versus the Timberwolves.

Conrad said that Zahradnik possesses the skills necessary to become even better, and is just “a little bit away from becoming a good golfer.”

In fact, Conrad said that they’ve seen improvement across the board this year. Everyone’s average has improved from last season, and that’s been the most encouraging sign this season.

“We are getting improvement, there’s no doubt about it,” said Conrad.

That’s been evident in Skinner as well, their No. 1 player. Conrad said the difference between last year and this year for Skinner has been “night and day.” He said that this season Skinner is a lot more confident and that’s resulted in lower scores.

Antonchak is another player who’s shaved off some strokes this season. While he may be slight of frame, Conrad said that Antonchak can still play big at times.

“He hits the ball pretty well,” said Conrad.

Conrad said the area of Antonchak’s game that’s seen the most improvement has been his putting. With a consistent stroke on the greens, he’s been able to whittle down his average to a little over 100 this season.

Ringenberger is another player on the rise. Conrad said he has a lot of potential and can pack a wallop off the tee at times. He’s also benefited from another year on the links.

The Zephs will send five players to Woodstone Country Club when the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference Golf Tournament begins later this month.

Conrad said that Skinner (No.1), Antonchak (No. 2), Zahradnik (No. 3), Hutterer (No. 4) and Ringenberger (No. 6) are all scheduled to participate.