New Member Clubs enjoy first GAP Team Matches experience

  Eight of the Association’s 11 new Member Clubs fielded squads in the GAP Team Matches this year.

  Players from Back Creek GC, Bidermann GC, Golden Pheasant GC, Limekiln GC, Middletown CC, Rancocas GC, Reading CC and Skippack GC at Evansburg State Park took the course this past Sunday to compete in Week 1.

  “I had high expectations, and it was even more fun than I expected,” Bill Jeremiah, Bidermann’s captain, said.

  In Division D, Bidermann 1 fell to Stonewall 1, 46-23.25. Despite the loss, though, the squad enjoyed the day and grew relaxed with the GAP Team Matches set-up.

  “I think some of our guys were a little intimidated by the format,” Jeremiah said. “But after one match, I think we’re much more comfortable. Everyone understands that each hole/point adds up and you have to stay on your toes for the whole round.”

  The social aspect of the GAP Team Matches resonated with Bidermann’s players.

  “For our club in general, it’s a great way to get our members out competing on the course early in the season, seeing different courses and meeting new people,” Jeremiah said. “Each week will generate more interest, and I think it’s going to be a great ritual of spring for our members for years to come.”

  Skippack GC 1 fell to Laurel Creek 3, 55.75-20.75, in Week 1, but the experience was encouraging for the squad.

  “I do feel a bit bad that our team was not as strong as the other team, but I'm convinced that if we stick with it, over the years we will be able to attract our best players to compete for our club in the GAP matches,” Erik Enters, Skippack's captain, said. “Everyone that participated — home and away — has e-mailed me expressing their interest in playing next Sunday, so I would say the overwhelming consensus is very positive.”

  Alan Hasher, Rancocas GC’s captain, joined the away team in its match against Wedgwood 2. He and Shawn Ross earned 3.25 points in the better-ball portion, and Rancocas came away with a 47.50-26 overall victory.

  “All went really well,” Hasher said. “Wedgwood was a great host. I also know a few people there that I haven’t seen in a couple years, so that was nice.”

Scores
Back Creek 1 d. Loch Nairn 1, 49.75-18.50
Stonewall 1 d. Bidermann 1, 46-23.25
Golden Pheasant 1 d. Linwood 2, 56.75-15.50
Concord 2 d. Limekiln 1, 34.75-31.25
Limekiln 2 d. Loch Nairn 2, 40-34
Middletown 1 d. Manufacturers 2, 43.75-28
Rancocas 1 d. Wedgwood 2, 47.50-26
Golden Oaks 2 d. Reading 1, 44.50-29.50
Laurel Creek 3 d. Skippack GC 1, 55.75-20.75