Jeff Smith leads golf team to new season's first win

Warwick - After three straight years of winning the OCIAA Division II League Championship, Warwick Valley High School boys golf team is off to another promising start this season. Warwick’s new coach, Gary Weed, is excited about this season due to the depth of this year’s team. Similar to last year’s team, this returning “A” squad has just two seniors, Steve Garby and Frank Mulzet. Of the five returning juniors, Jeff Smith, Tom Garby and Nick Schiavo lead the way with extensive competitive experience. Rounding out the squad is returning junior Sam Ferrec and up-and-coming freshman, Ryan Metzger, who is already performing well. Senior Steve Garby, who is recovering from severe pneumonia which has prevented him from starting the season, hopes to be playing in matches by the third week in April. In a season-opening match at Port Jervis County Club, Warwick Valley easily defeated Minisink Valley 198 to 218. Smith carded low round of the day with a 2 over par 36 to lead Warwick to victory. Other scores included Garby (38), Metzger (40), Mulzet (41), and Schiavo (43). “I’ve enjoyed watching these players develop since before Middle School,” said assistant Lee Ferrec. “And now, as the mental aspect of their game continues to improve and mature, their scores are a reflection of that growth. If the players stay focused and grounded, these next two seasons have the potential to be among the best years the High School Golf team has had.”