With a young, untested lineup, coach Jeff Ridenour knew the Granite City boys golf team to have its ups and downs.
Looking back on the Warriors' 3-13 showing in duals, Ridenour wonders why there weren't more ups and fewer downs.
"I expected us to be a little better, but give credit to the rest of the (Southwestern) Conference -- there are a lot of good teams," Ridenour said. "I just have to look at this as a rebuilding year for us."
The Warriors' struggles weren't unexpected.
"We had only a couple guys (returning) that had played any varsity matches," the Granite City coach said.
Devin Desper and Dustin Young emerged as leaders on this year's squad.
"They consistently shot in the low 40s with a few rounds in the upper 30s," Ridenour said. "Desper actually made it to the (Class 3A) sectional by shooting 77 in the regional (at Arlington Greens)."
Others in the lineup included Jon Royce, Denny Riggs and Jimmy Hudson. Brandon Treat, Drake Sitton and Ian Veizer rounded out the top eight.
Ridenour has higher hopes for next season.
"I tell the kids to play as many matches as they can, and it never hurts to get a swing coach over the summer so you can stay sharp and hone your craft," he said. "I'd like to see them get into the Gateway Junior PGA, but a lot of these guys play other sports over the summer, especially baseball. It's tough to balance everything."
