The Covington Buccaneers have high aspirations in 2022 due to the talent returning from a team that qualified for districts with a 4th place finish at sectionals and finished 3rd in the league with a record of 10-4.

“The goals for this season are to win the league championship and return to the district tournament,” said coach Bill Wise, who returns in his 18th season as head coach. “Our varsity has the experience and ability to have a great season if they continue to work hard and maintain their hunger.”

Returning letterman Hunter Ray is the only senior on the roster, but the core of the team are returning juniors Bryson Hite, Cameron Haines, Connor Humphrey and Sam Grabeman.

“Hunter should provided leadership and the juniors are returning lettermen and should have strong seasons,” Wise said.

In the mix to contribute are veteran junior Levi Weldy and newcomer junior Grant Blore, as well as sophomore Matthew Dieperink and freshman Brody Manson.

“Matthew (Dieperink) could be one of our top golfers this season if he plays up to his abilities,” Wise stated. “Brody (Manson) appears to be a solid player and should put pressure on the upper classmen for varsity time. Levy (Weldy) and Grant (Blore) will be trying to crack the varsity lineup as well.”

With the depth and talent on the roster, the competition for varsity action will be fierce. Those who have spent a significant amount of time on the course throughout the summer have a leg up on the competition.

“For the most part, the kids have spent a lot of time on the course working on their games,” said Wise. “They know what is ahead of them and what they need to do to reach their goals. I stressed to them that nobody is going to give them anything, they have to go out and earn it.”

This should lead to consistent improvement throughout the year and hopefully result into a strong showing in the league and in the post season.