On May 15, the Vermont Academy, Proctor Academy, Kimball Union Academy, New Hampton School, Holderness School, and Tilton School golf teams gathered at Lake Sunapee Country Club for the Lakes Region Tournament. Each team entered its four top golfers in the tournament. VA brought Carter Burnett ’25, Cooper Biederbeck ’24, Ryan Slaunwhite ’25, and Nate Gagnon ’24.

The tournament format was modified to Stableford scoring; 1 point for bogey, 2 for par, 3 for birdie, and 4 for eagle. The team with the most cumulative points wins. VA ended up with 112 points, nipping Holderness by 2. Carter shot the low round of 74 for VA. Cooper shot 75, Ryan had a 77, and Nate earned 85. The best score of the day was 72–Lake Sunapee is a par 71.

Head Golf Coach Dave Hodgson ’89 remarked on the difficulty in selecting the number four spot for the tournament. “There were three players that were capable of playing in that spot,” he said. “I was fortunate to have a fun, enthusiastic group. They all enjoyed playing the games and helping each other be better golfers.” Overall, he attributes the team’s success to their depth. “We were fortunate to have some new students with significant playing experience.”

This season, the full roster included 13 players: Cooper Biederbeck ’24, Carter Burnett ’25, Cali Burnett ’26, Zack Druin ’25, Chris Giguere ’25, Flynn Dennis ’25, CJ Bonner ’25, Aiden Willett ’25, Ethan Muenkel ’24, Nate Gagnon ’24, Ryan Slaunwhite ’25, Elias Norton ’24, and Shane Romano ’24. 

The team practiced at Hooper Golf Course in Walpole, NH this spring, and they were able to host three matches there. “It is a great course and the visiting teams all enjoyed playing it,” Coach Hodgson shared. Despite having coached several sports over the years at Vermont Academy, this was his first time having the opportunity to coach golf. “It was an awesome experience and I look forward to doing it again next spring.” 

CFO/Head of Operations Matt Emsley and Assistant Director of Admissions Brian Allen ’14 were also on the coaching team. 

“There are several returning students on next year's team and we should have a good chance at defending our title.” Coach Hodgson said. As for his hopes for next season, he’s just counting on Mother Nature to help give them a leg up. “I just hope we dodge the early April snowstorm so we can get on the course sooner.”

On behalf of the VA community, we congratulate the golf team for a great season and win!