Jesuit runs into powerhouse Byrd in bid to defend state golf title

C.E. Byrd of Shreveport set the tone early for the Louisiana High School Division 1 Golf Championship presented by Allstate Sugar Bowl.

In round one, the Yellow Jackets boys golf squad fired a one under par score of 287 over the Wetlands Golf Course in Lafayette. The 2017 state champion Jesuit found themselves in a tie for third at 304 with West Monroe and trailing second place Alexandria at 299.

Byrd coach William Martin and the Yellow Jackets set the bar high for a historically strong program.

Despite trailing by 17 strokes behind powerhouse Byrd, Jesuit had strong support the final round. David Moreau, Jesuit’s Athletic Director, was joined by Blue Jay parents, grandparents and friends to support the cause. Although a rally for the team repeat was not in the cards, it became more of celebration of a strong golf program and a tribute to the leaving seniors.

The Blue Jays did not disappoint in their final round, firing a 297 on their way to passing West Monroe and Alexandria for sole possession of second place but 25 strokes behind Byrd.

Jesuit coach Owen Seiler with the support of Assistant Coaches Dr. Monty Glorioso and John Weirich led the 2017 state championship team. He was equally proud of his 2018 squad.

“I am proud of this team. Byrd got off to a great start firing a team score of one under par, overcoming a 17 stroke lead was not our mindset,” Seiler said. “Our goal was to go out and do our best in Blue Jay tradition. They went out and and passed West Monroe and Alexandria for second place. Yes, very proud of this team.”

The final round Jesuit effort was led by freshman Andrew Barecca 72. Junior Britton Khalaf (73) and three seniors – J.T. Thomas (76), Grayson Glorioso (77) and Jake Kuebel (80) rounded out the effort.

“We wanted to do so much better, yet I am so proud to have been on a state championship team. To do it with friends and have the opportunity to be on the team two years with my older brother Grant. All special to me,” Glorioso said.

When Kuebel had the time to talk after coming off tough last high school round, two under par 34 on the front and coming in with 46 for an 80, he was still able to manage a smile. “It has been a great experience,” Kuebel said reflecting on his whole career.

Holmes, in a calm manner, discussed his performance. “I sure wanted to play better,” he noted.

Among the college options for Holmes are Virginia and Vanderbilt. The whole Blue Jays squad has quality student-athletes in the fullest sense of the word.

Congratulations to the Jesuit golf team, winning on and off the golf course.