Elder golf is back on their grind for the 2015 season and with that they are bringing back six senior leaders in hope of a run at state. While these seniors are a big part of what the Panthers are trying to accomplish this season, there is a new face on the team that is making a big impact. Freshman Jack Wertz is the lone freshman on the squad and is definitely doing his part to get the team some wins.

In 16 nine-hole rounds this season, the youngster has managed to average a score of 40.2 strokes per round. This includes a low of 34 on August 25^th at Western Hills Country Club and a low 18-hole score of 75 at Four Bridges Country Club. The 6’-5″ freshman is currently playing number four on the team.

“I’m very happy [to make the team], it was a big goal of mine during the summer,” said Jack regarding making the varsity team. He also says that the upperclassmen have treated him very well and have included him as well as been helpful in improving his game.

Jack is the first freshman to make the Varsity A golf team since current senior Kurt Fortman did it. I talked with Kurt about the similarities between Jack and himself as freshman. “Well in size there is not much in common,” Kurt joked. “But he is a great talent and will be a great leader as the years go on.” He also mentioned how Wertz is a top four player, scorer, and contributed right out of the gate.

While taking control of the links, Jack also plans on taking his talents to the hardwood and trying out for basketball as well as the diamond and becoming a pitcher for the baseball team.

Elder golf has a talented young player that should lead future Panther golfers in the right direction for years to come.