Frazier golfers aim for title in new section
By JASON BLACK
For the Mon Valley Independent
In 2019, the Frazier golf team did something that is extremely hard to do.
The Commodores finished with 13 wins and suffered just three section losses, yet somehow managed to miss the WPIAL playoffs.
In a very strong Section 2-2A, Frazier was the odd team out of the playoff mix after Mt. Pleasant and Derry tied as co-section champs. This year, the Commodores won’t have to worry about Mt. Pleasant or Derry, because Frazier has been shifted over into Section 8.
Frazier will be competing against Beth-Center, Carmichaels, Charleroi, Jefferson-Morgan and Waynesburg.
“They are all competitive and they all have great coaches,” longtime Frazier coach Larry Mikesell said. “I’m sure that everyone will play well (on their home course), so we’ll have to try to sneak a few out on the road.”
Mikesell, who started the Frazier golf program back in 1986, is excited about this year’s team, and is hoping for a big season from the 2020 Commodores.
“We’re playing to win the section,” Mikesell said.
The Commodores lost three starters to graduation in Isabella Kudyba, Emi Curcio and Elyse Elliott. However, Frazier returns three experienced starters in senior Chase Hazelbaker, junior Noah Usher and sophomore Jay Thompson.
“They are going to bring stability because they will all be in the low 40s,” Mikesell said.
Mikesell will be banking on steady and consistent scores from the lettermen, as well as freshman Nixon Erdely, who has shown his ability to score well, even as a newcomer to the team.
Look for seniors Nick Sinal and Jake Lemley to round out the top six in most matches.
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