johnCANNON "My best golf match this season, I would have to say is surprisingly my worst round 82. It was at Albion with almost perfect conditions. I did something, I've never done before, I went 9 over through 2 holes. After this my coach calmed me down and I actually went on to go only 1 over through my next 16 holes. Great thanks to my coach for being able to get control of me," said J o h n Cannon (13).
photo by derek joger ('12)
swinging AWAY "
up to par
by Christopher ansel ('11) The fall 2010 golf season concluded with one of the most exciting finishes in MIAA history. Entering the final tournament, Trine held an 18 stroke lead over the rest of the MIAA field. In an amazing comeback finish, Calvin won the conference title by 3 strokes over Trine and 10 strokes over Hope College. The third place finish by the Dutchmen marked only the third time in 10 years that they had not won the conference. Captain Chris Ansel ('11) maintained a tradition of golf excellence at Hope by winning MIAA medalist honors. "I was inspired by Ansel's unbelievable golf swing that reminded me of silk being spun with a graceful touch," said Sean LaDouce ('13). Ansel's seasonal average of 72.5 was the fourth best in Hope history. Nick Campbell ('12) was a first team MIAA honoree for the second time behind a 74.9 average and was a key contributor throughout the year. Andy Thomson ('12) averaged 76.96 strokes for all MIAA tournaments. Thomson's 170
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highlight round of the year came at the Comet Classic where he covered Bedford Valley Golf Club in a one over par 72. The roster consisted of 9 players for the season, including three newcomers to the team. Freshmen Jason VanderKlok had a developmental year playing as an alternate in many MIAA tournaments, getting him familiar with each course. Another newcomer that saw MIAA action was LaDouce ('13). LaDouche's game developed steadily over the season under the watchful eye of Coach Ebels. "Coach helped my mental game improve beyond where I was at the beginning of the year. With his tutoring and mentoring I believe I can approach all golf shots with confidence." The golf team enjoyed playing at Harbor Shores Golf Course after the completion of the season. Harbor Shores was a gem designed by Jack Wicklaus on the shores of Lake Michigan, offering quite the challenge to any skill level and allowed the team to enjoy some friendly competition.