Independence’s boys’ golf team got hot at the right time last fall.
The Blue Devils hit their stride late in the season to finish sixth at the Division III sectional tournament and in the upper half of the Chagrin Valley Conference Valley Division standings.
Heading into the 2017 season, the Blue Devils hope to get off to a fast start with the intentions of winning the league title and earning a spot in the district tournament.
“We are looking to contend for the Valley Division this year after a strong finish last year,” said Independence coach Mark Echstenkamper. “With Hawken moving up to the Chagrin Division it certainly opens up the run for our division.”
Senior Andrew Teribery is projected to lock down the No. 1 spot for the Blue Devils and second team all-CVC performer Ryan Zygmunt, a senior, and junior Carson Bianco, a district qualifier, round out the top three.
“We’re looking for big things from Teribery,” Echstenkamper said. “(Bianco) had a good summer and could really make some noise.”
Senior Sam Spacagna moved into the Independence district and will compete with junior Tyler Sagi for the No. 4 spot in the lineup.
Juniors Jon Rydzinski and Mason Fink and sophomores Hugh Corrigan and Mike Jedrezejek provide the Blue Devils with depth.
“We also feel we have a good chance to make it to districts as a team,” Echstenkamper said. “We came very close to making it out last year and feel we are stronger this year.”
The Blue Devils open the season on Monday at the Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy Invitational.
