Valley Sports ReportATHENS — The Athens golf team is coming off its first-ever District 4 title, has won four straight NTL titles, and is riding a 22-match league win streak.
Shane Saxon will take the helm as head coach of the Wildcats, who open the 2025 season Monday at the Towanda Country Club.
"I have been the assistant to coach (Lenny) Pientka for the last four years, so taking over is going to be a little bit of a transition but I believe I’m up to the challenge," said Saxon.
"I have brought in three assistant coaches who have a lot of knowledge and experience in the game to help all these kids get better," he added.
Saxon notes the program continues to draw big numbers.
"Our numbers are great this year. We had 24 sign up and come out to play," he said. "There are a lot of new faces just looking to start learning the game."
Saxon also welcomes the pressure that comes along with program's recent success.
"Of course I feel some pressure on keeping that win streak going and trying to win another NTL title," he said.
"The kids talk about it all the time and how they are hearing some talk from other schools that they all are gunning for us.
"I think they are all looking forward to the challenge to keep it going and they all seem very excited to get started," he added.
Athens graduated a pair of key seniors — Dylan Saxon and Brady Darrow — from last year's District championship team.
"Dylan Saxon and Brady Darrow both consistently posted scores every match for the team and their leadership and ability to play and post consistent scores every week were crucial to our success as a team the last couple years," said Saxon.
Junior Eli Hicks and sophomore Ty Owen will lead the Wildcats, while sophomore Brooke Lyon and junior Lucas Grenninger will vie for starting spots.
"Eli Hicks and Ty Owen are two kids we are going to lean on quit a bit this year," said Saxon. "Both are hitting the ball very well at this point, and we're looking for good things from them.
"Brooke Lyon helped us win a few matches last year, and Lucas Greninger grinds and puts in work every day, and it’s starting to show in his scores," Saxon noted.
Saxon also believes a pair of newcomers will contribute.
"Zaine Campbell is new to the team, but he has a great swing and pretty good game," said Saxon. "I'm looking for him to post some good scores.
"Freshman Jacob Saxon is also hitting the ball very well.
"I believe these two will have to step up for us to continue our streak," Saxon added.
Saxon expect the Wildcats to compete for another NTL title.
"Our expectations are to play well, and, hopefully, win the NTL again this," he said. "Hearing what’s out there this year, the NTL sounds like it is going to be great competition."
Athens will play its second match of the season Thursday at the River Valley Golf Course in Westfield, Pa.
——————————
IN PHOTO: Athens junior Eli Hicks. ... VSR STOCK PHOTO.
