The coaches at Friends University have had their complaints about the bipolar weather this year, and heat golf coach Aaron Winter is no different.

“The challenges we have faced with this weather has played a factor in our season. We missed the first three weeks of the practice season due to the weather. That being said, we are starting to play better,” said Winter.

Altering the practice and match schedules because of the weather has taken its toll and has been the main contributor to the subpar performance.

“Biggest disappointment is we haven’t performed up to our expectations. We are not playing how I know we can play. That’s mainly because of the weather,” said Winter.
Experience has also played a role in the substandard season. 

“We have a good mix of guys. We have different age ranges, and we just lack collegiate experience. What has been beneficial is that we are building that match experience,” said Winter.

Even with all these negative factors standing against the team, there have been some highlights through this trying 2011 season. The Southwestern Tournament on March 21-22 was one of those.

“Jason Eaglin (senior) played two solid rounds. We had great weather and we took fifth place. We had a better team showing that tournament,” said Winter.

Winter isn’t the only one noticing the Eaglin’s good play. The other players are noticing as well.

“Jason Eglin is our No. 1. He is probably our strongest player,” said sophomore Brett Baxter.

Friends is ranked seventh in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference’s April 14 coaches poll, but Winter is optimistic about the future.

“This is the most fun group of guys to be around. They react well with the outcome of the matches. Despite the outcome, this has been an enjoyable year,” said Winter.

The two day KCAC Tournament starts May 2 and will conclude the rebuilding season for the golf team.