Mount Vernon starts postseason trek

Potential has to lead to performance.

Mount Vernon boys' golf coach Mick Angel recognizes the ability his team possesses, but another strong postseason run will demand a total team effort.

'We want to play the way we're capable of playing,' Angel said. 'You never know what's going to happen come tournament time, but we have the team balance to do it. We have to get everybody on the same page at the same time.'

The Mustangs will begin postseason play with a Class 3A sectional meet Friday at Wildcat Golf Course in Shellsburg, beginning at 10 a.m. The field includes Anamosa, Benton Community, Center Point-Urbana, DeWitt Central, Maquoketa, Marion and host Vinton-Shellsburg.

Mount Vernon has been a staple at the state meet recently. The senior class is looking for its fourth state appearance. The Mustangs were 3A runners-up last year, placing third and fourth in 2A the previous two seasons.

'I think we have to be ready to compete mentally,' Angel said. 'The physical aspects are there. We've got guys who can play some good golf. We just have to get it out of them.'

Despite some inconsistent play at times this year, Mount Vernon ranks as high as fifth in 3A. The Mustangs are ninth in 3A with an 18-hole team average of 316.5, which is a little more than one stroke back of Vinton-Shellsburg.

Angel said seniors have been key to Mount Vernon's success. Tommy Hook has shown more maturity and managed courses better this season, averaging 81.5 for 18 holes. Jake Hansen has been a strong contributor at the No. 6 spot. Junior Drew Wolfe is second on the team, shooting 78 per round.

The Mustangs placed second in the team race last season, placing third in 2014 and fourth in 2A three years ago. According to senior Connor Herrmann, this team is the deepest of his career.

'Everyone is really excited,' Herrmann said. 'We all put in a lot of work this off-season. We want to go out and try to play our best.'

Angel said they have the balance to score a round from their sixth golfer but the top four haven't played their best simultaneously.

'We always tell out players you don't have to shoot your best round ever when you get into tournaments,' Angel said. 'You just have to do what you are capable and be steady about it.'

Few have been as steady as Herrmann. He has been a leader for the Mustangs since his freshman year. He is one of the top golfers in 3A, averaging 76.75 over 18 holes and 35.88 for nine.

'His work ethic is above anybody else that I've worked with for a long, long time,' Angel said. 'He wants to do well and he can come through in clutch situations. He's the kind of guy you want there as a No. 1 (player).

'He just works his tail off. He's got a lot of natural ability, but he works hard and gets the most benefit out of what he's got.'

Herrmann has produced high state finish each season. He tied for the second-best score last season. As a sophomore he was third, following a top-15 finish three years ago. His goal is to capture gold that has eluded him.

'Something about it sounds so much better,' Herrmann said. 'I've always dreamed of being a state champion. It's been in my sights.'

The top two teams and top four individuals, including fourth-place ties, advance to next week's district meet. In case of a host team claiming one of the top two spots, the third-place team also will advance.

l Comments: (319) 368-8679; kj.pilcher@thegazette.com