Last season was a learning experience for new coach Brandon Proudfoot. He’s better prepared this year to lead the Mount Si boys golf team to a winning season, and he has the players to do it.

Mount Si went 6-1 last year and sent Jack Kelly to state. This fall, top returners, Sean Ballsmith and Mitchell Gardunia, both seniors, are counted on to lead with low scores.

“Both Sean and Mitchell hit the ball a long ways off the tee and can lead the team by making birdies and posting some low scores,” Proudfoot said.

The top newcomers are Jake Archambeau and Reed Pattenaude.

“Jake is a welcome surprise as he comes from playing football last year and is now slated to be one of the top golfers on the squad,” Proudfoot said. “Reed is a good left-handed freshman who has a very consistent game and will only get better as he continues to grow and get stronger.”

Team Captain Wesley Nelson, a senior, brings a leadership personality.

“Wes is a positive influence as team captain for the entire squad,” Proudfoot said. “He works hard and keeps fighting on the course even when faced with difficult situations and our young golfers can really learn from him.”

Proudfoot expects Interlake to be the team to beat in the league; they won a state title last year.

Mount Si’s team is deep, though, with all players in the top ten able to post a top-five score that will count. That bodes well for the Wildcats in the current league format; Proudfoot is looking for a top-three finish this year.

Assistants John McDermott and Eric Tierney are back. The team website is www.mtsihighgolf.com. League results are at kingcogolf.com.