Cheverus Golf Team Claims Class A Championship

VASSALBORO — Coach Billy Goodman of Cheverus golf continually checked in with his players about their rounds, but they were more focused on the team’s performance.

“Sam (Sirois) was in the lead, constantly asking how the team was doing,” Goodman noted. “All my players were concerned with the team’s status.”

As it turned out, the team performed remarkably well. With Mick Madden’s medalist score of 1-over 73 and a solid 75 from Sirois, Cheverus triumphed in the Class A championship, marking its first state title since 2005 at Natanis Golf Course. The Stags finished with a team score of 307, clinching a 13-stroke lead over Falmouth, who placed second. Messalonskee came in third with a score of 324, led by Gavin Jackson’s 79, followed closely by Scarborough (325) and Gorham (327).

Team Dynamics and Performance

After finishing second last year, Cheverus faced challenges with the loss of three players from their top six. However, their reconstructed lineup thrived, ultimately earning them the SMAA title. On Saturday, Sirois, a freshman, finished tied for second while teammates Joe Mancini and Keane McGrath scored 78 and 81, respectively. Although Mathew Paradis (82) and Garrett Thees (86) also contributed, their scores were not needed.

Individual Excellence

Madden’s 73 secured him the individual title, followed closely by Sirois, Falmouth’s Dante Iannetta, and Greely’s Joe Hansen, all shooting 75s. Scarborough’s Brett Kemper rounded out the top five with a 76.

Thornton Academy golfer Stella Foy captured the girls’ title with a score of 90, edging out Lily Blanchard (91) from Hampden Academy and Lila Dailey (94) from Camden Hills.

Wrapping Up the Tournament

Madden, who previously placed second as a freshman and third as a junior, triumphed as a senior thanks to a strong finish, including two birdies against three bogeys. He completed his round with a birdie on the 18th hole, hitting a perfect wedge shot from 100 yards and sinking a 7-foot putt.

“I felt the course was challenging, but I focused on staying calm,” said Madden. “The team aspect was my main concern. Knowing we all worked hard made winning feel even better.”

Falmouth’s Iannetta, who competed alongside Madden, initially tied with him after birdies on the 14th and 15th holes but fell back due to a bogey on the 16th, while Madden’s birdie on 18 made the difference. Iannetta commented, “While my ball-striking was strong, my putting left something to be desired. It was encouraging to have a fellow competitor excel.”