Freedom head golf coach Mike Evans has been impressed with his team’s turnout, and he expects the Patriots to be in the hunt on an abbreviated East Penn Conference schedule.

“This was one of our best years for having golfers try out,” said Evans. “We have 16 kids, and we’ll try to carry as many as we can.

“It has to be our biggest amount in four or five years. I expect us to do well and win about 60 to 70 percent of our matches.”

Due to COVID regulations, the Patriots will play 10 matches and there also will be a limited amount of golfers on the roster.

Heading a senior-laced lineup will be Jake Haberstumpf, who finished ninth in district play last year. Evans expects Haberstumpf to card an average in the mid-70s.

“Jake (Haberstumpf) has been shooting around 77 during the summer,” said Evans. “Jake should be one of the better golfers in the area. He should pace us this year.”

Fellow seniors Tyler Huch and Luke Wasilick both should have consistent campaigns this season, as they will help solidify the lineup.

Freshman Matt Ronca played approximately 24 tournaments during the summer, and he should make an immediate impact.

“He has the ability to shoot consistently in the 70s,” said Evans of Ronca. “He really will help us fill out our lineup.”

Evans sees Liberty as the team to beat in the EPC, but he believes the Patriots will more than hold their own against Bethlehem Catholic, Easton, and Northampton. He labels Nazareth as a wild card in the mix.

“Liberty has the chance to be very good and go far,” he said. “They have a veteran lineup, and I can see them getting past districts.”

Evans will hope to deepen his lineup this fall, as he will lose five seniors from the squad.

“I want to try and keep as many guys as I can, and try to get them in match or two,” he said. “Some of them aren’t course ready yet.

“We like our team and we should be successful.”