In golf, progress doesn’t always show up on a leaderboard. Sometimes, it’s seen in the way a player steps to the first tee with calmness instead of nerves, or how a team begins to find its identity through hard-earned confidence. This year’s Men’s Golf team is doing a bit of both. And just a few matches into the season, one thing is clear: the Panthers are on the rise.

Led by returning players including Butchie L. ’26, Noah P. ’26, and Vincent Z. ’26, this year’s squad strikes a balance between experience and new energy. International standout Oskaras V. ’26 anchors the lineup in his first year at SD, strengthening the foundation even further.

“It’s still early, but the growth has been obvious,” says Head Coach Russell Kessler. “Practices are sharper. Players are more focused. They’re starting to understand not just the swing mechanics, but how to manage their game strategically — and that’s when scores start to drop.” In fact, the Panthers have already shattered their home-course team scoring record by 23 shots, a milestone that speaks to both individual development and team-wide momentum.

Coach Kessler credits much of that to the returning leadership.

“Butchie has really come into his own,” Coach Kessler shares. “He owns his swing, and more importantly, he’s matured in the mental side of the game. He’s vocal, encouraging, and leads with heart. Naming him team captain may turn out to be the best decision I make all year.”

For Butchie, leadership starts with connection. “Being a captain isn’t about being the boss,” he explains. “It’s about being a role model—being on time, showing respect, and caring about how your teammates are doing, both on and off the course.”

He adds, “golf takes years to master. So my goal is to help the team improve every day, stay positive, and enjoy the process. Even though golf is an individual sport, we’ve built a team culture that feels close-knit—and that makes all the difference.”

Noah P. ’26, now in his third year with the program, has emerged as a quiet leader in his own right, the kind of player rookies look to emulate. “Noah’s confidence is peaking,” says Coach Kessler. “He’s the #2 player on the team, and his steady improvement, especially in putting and course management, is lifting everyone else’s game.”

And then there’s Oskaras V. ’26, whose competitive background includes international tournaments with the Lithuanian men’s team and high-level junior events across Europe.

“Playing at that level taught me how to lead by example and how to play for something bigger than myself,” Oskaras said. “My goal is to help this team improve—not just as golfers, but as people. And personally, I’d love to qualify for the state tournament and grow my mental game along the way.”

Even behind the scenes, leadership is showing up in meaningful ways. Veteran Vincent Z. ’26, a boarding student in his third year with the program, has become a steady mentor to newer players like Kyle J. ’26, Daniel W. ’28, Kevin Z. ’28, and Natan C. ’27. “Vincent’s calm demeanor and golf IQ make him a quiet force,” said Kessler. “He’s invaluable on the practice range, just talking the game and supporting the group.”

The coaching staff has noticed the shift. “The guys have learned how to go about their work the right way,” adds Coach Kessler. “We’re not just working harder; we’re working smarter. And that shows.”

With no seniors on this year’s roster, the Panthers are building something with staying power. And with a talented freshman class now in the fold, the future is bright—not just for this season, but for the years to come.