Rams Charge into 2010 Seeking Title Defense

For Coach Tom Struthers, Shawsheen Tech golf is about more than just winning it all.

It's about striving for excellence, on and off the field.

The Rams will be looking for their sixth consecutive league title in 2010, but Struthers has some humbling advice to give to his players as they try to improve on their 10-3 record last season (10-0 in conference).

"Make every shot count."

Just like in life, the decisions his players make on the course affect the overall quality of their game, which is why he urges his team to make well-thought out decisions to improve themselves.

Struthers explained that since his whole team is so close in skill level, he'll almost assuredly play the athlete that is making better, wiser shots. For instance, if a player shoots a 41 one week and a 40 the next, while another does the opposite, he'll go with the hot hand.

There are 12 golfers on the team. Eight of them start each match while four of them sit. The decisions are never easy for the coach, entering his sixth year, which is a good thing in his mind. He feels that he's been blessed with such a talented team that can excel regardless of which players make the cuts for certain matches.

The team will be led by senior captain Dan Jacobs of Billerica, a commander who Struthers said "keeps the team focused, keeping them on task with what they're supposed to be doing. We've been really lucky with our captains over the years. They've been great."

Struthers' Rams showcase several talented juniors that are capable of shooting 37s at any point. He'll also be looking to get solid play out of his three promising newcomers in sophomores Nick Maffeo of Tewksbury and Chris Newcomb of Billerica and senior Shane Soloski, also of Billerica.

After changing leagues last year, the Colonial Athletic League gives Shawsheen a chance to play more vocational schools from Central Massachusetts, while also playing out of conference games against the likes of Billerica, Burlington, and Austin Prep.

The non-league matches are definitely the most challenging, but they allow the Rams to highlight their weaknesses and attempt to make adjustments during the course of the season in time to make a push in conference play.

Throughout his tenure as head coach, Struthers has seen new talent emerge and pass on the legacy that Shawsheen Tech is quickly building.

Shawsheen Tech golf is certainly a strong program that continues to rise year after year. Struthers has confidence in his "pretty talented team" and will be looking for a sixth title in six years.

The Rams tee off on Tuesday, Sept. 7 at 3 p.m. at Worcester Voke's home course. Shawsheen plays its home matches at the Patriot Golf Course in Bedford.