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LEHIGH VALLEY WEATHER

Zeph golfers show improvement

The Zephyr golf season won’t be defined by their wins and losses this season; rather, it’s going to be marked by the steady improvement displayed by each golfer as they approach the end of the regular season.

It’s hard to accurately measure the success of a team by only their wins and losses, especially when considering the circumstances surrounding this season. They’re locked into a condensed schedule that features some of the best teams in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference led by undefeated Liberty.

That’s who they faced on Monday as the Hurricanes rolled into Bethlehem Municipal Golf Course at 6-0.

Still, head coach John Conrad isn’t focused on the outcome. It’s more about the process, and how each golfer has made positive gains from match to match.

“I’ve see improvement in every player,” said Conrad.

He knows that their schedule has been challenging, but he likes what he’s seen from his players.

“Individually, they’re not intimidated, said Conrad. “They’re out to improve their shots every time.”

It’s evident in the scores they’ve been posting as the season’s progressed. They had their best round against Parkland last week, posting a 485, while the Trojans came in at 428. It was their best score of the year, one in which shows substantial improvement when they opened the season carding a collective 536.

It’s that drive to keep making the necessary steps to play better each day that has him beaming about this year’s squad.

“I’m really proud of the way they’re approaching each match,” he said.

Conrad said that this team shows a lot of initiative, asking to stay later after practice to play a few more holes. That type of commitment has defined this season, and it’s garnered his admiration.

“It’s all the things you’re looking for when you’re coaching,” said Conrad.

One player who’s been a key part of that steady improvement is Cody Suhaka, Conrad said that Suhaka joined the team after their first match against Northampton and has emerged as their top player. He shot an 85 against the Trojans to pace the team.

Another player who has made significant strides is Mathew Bernhard. Conrad said that Bernhard has taken a leadership role. He encourages his fellow teammates to keep plugging away, and that has helped them continue in the right direction through his positive example. He shot a 97 in the match against the Trojans.

Kristine Landis has remained a consistent force throughout the year, equaling Bernhard’s 97 against Parkland. Conrad said that Landis will one again qualify for the postseason, making the cut in the District XI individual tourney.

He said that Landis is a hard worker who has put time into her game. That work has paid off as she continues to get better with each passing round.

They’re also getting solid scoring from Cole Kubic and Jayden Kuhn. Kubic posted a 99 against the Trojans, while Kuhn shot a 107.

With Monday’s match complete, the Zephyrs will have three matches remaining. They’re still searching for their first win, and will face Emmaus, Allentown Central Catholic and Northampton to close out the season. Those final three matches will give them the opportunity to keep shaving strokes off their rounds, while inching closer to victory.

Press photo by Linda Rothrock Whitehall's Cody Suhaka is a newcomer who has helped the Zephs.