Jack Novis, a senior at Lancaster Catholic High School, captured the District 3 Class 2A Golf championship at York’s Briarwood East Course on Oct. 8 and 9 with a 36-hole total of 153 (+9). Novis, never trailed in the championship, jumping out fast with two birdies in his first six holes on Friday’s first round, which was played in benign and warm conditions. Briarwoood’s East course is a long but open track that allows ample driving room, but precise approach shots to tucked pin positions are required to score. By carding an even par 72 on Friday, Novis carried a 4-stroke lead into day two.
The tournament’s second day was hardly tranquil, as a steady 20 MPH east wind gave golfers fits scoring on the 7,000-plus yard course. Firm greens made downwind shots particularly difficult to spin, and scores ballooned as a result. Novis’ 81 was good enough to hold off Boiling Springs’ Josh Hiles, who was able to close within three shots late in the round, but Novis made a clutch eight-foot par putt to slam the door on any late charge. It was a solid ball striking performance from Novis, who hit a tight draw tee ball that pierced the wind effectively. His wedge short game also was sharp – an advantage every golfer needs to win championships.
The victory was the school’s first ever District 3 individual championship in golf, though it did win a team title and state title several years ago. The PIAA state tournament will again be played at Heritage Hills in York, Oct. 18-21.
(Photo courtesy of District 3 website.)
By Chris Heisey, The Catholic Witness
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