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05/22/2023 11:14 AMThe main thing that has rested in the mind of Head Coach Kevin St. Pierre since he took the reins of the North Haven golf team and program has been seeing the squad persist on as a unit beyond the regular season. In 2023, behind dedicated efforts of several astute swingers on the links, he may be able to finally set his mind at ease.
A year ago, the Nighthawks finished regular-season action with an overall record of 7-8. This spring, as the Nighthawks are winding down their regular-season rounds, the one target that is set in their collective sight is continuing their run as an entire group with postseason qualification.
“Each year, goals are set as a team, but this year, one important one was a big one, [which is to] make both the SCC and [Division I] state tournaments as a team,” said St. Pierre, who is in his fifth season at the helm with the Nighthawks. “North Haven has not been at the tournaments since 2018, my first year, and this has been a goal I have challenged the athletes with. We are looking forward to seeing what the season brings.”
North Haven’s lone senior captain on the links is Christian Basmadjian, who is slated as the No. 2 golfer in the Nighthawks’ lineup. St. Pierre described him as someone who commands the respect of both his teammates and his opponents on the course via his overall good-natured attitude.
“Christian brings leadership and class to the course and team,” said St. Pierre. “He does an outstanding job leading by example on and off the golf course.”
Joining him in the captain’s log is junior Chris Labanara, who oscillates between the No. 3 and No. 4 slots in matchups–showing a great fire and love for the sport by continuing to enhance his abilities on a daily basis.
“Chris plays and flip flops between the No. 3 and 4 spots on the team,” said St. Pierre. “He demonstrates a great passion for the game and continuously strives to get better.”
The final captain is sophomore Will Sagnella, who occupies the top spot in the North Haven lineup for match play, and he swings a consistent club and is additionally counted upon to aid his teammates when it is necessary.
“Will has worked very hard to reach this spot and secure it,” said St. Pierre. “Not only does he work continuously at his game, he also is always looking to help his teammates develop and learn the game.”
Looking further down the depth chart of the Nighthawks’ roster, St. Pierre noted the contributions of senior Declan Finkle and junior Danny LaDore, who he described as athletes who “both have tremendous potential and can make a huge impact on the season.”
The top 17 squads in the Division I State Rankings at the conclusion of the regular season will qualify for the tournament. North Haven wrapped up the regular season with critical SCC clashes against Law and Amity while facing off with Sheehan twice–serving as playoff-type atmospheres per St. Pierre.
“All these matches will test the patience and skill of the golfers as a whole,” said St. Pierre entering those contests. “The results of these matches will have a huge impact on a potential state tournament bid.”
Regardless of if North Haven’s postseason aspirations and dreams come to pass, the Nighthawks can look through this campaign and reflect upon it with a great sense of pride already with the progress of not only each individual player’s gained proficiency with golf, but also how they have fully grasped the heart of the student-athlete lifestyle matter.
“This season, I have seen tremendous growth and development from all of the players,” said
St. Pierre. “Not only do I continuously see them working to get better at the game, they have also grown as young adults. The importance of the school-to-athlete balance is a critical aspect of being a successful student-athlete, and I feel thus far the team has done a fantastic job representing the school and North Haven.”
The 2023 Nighthawks’ team roster is comprised of seniors Basmadjian, Finkle, Peter Harkins; juniors of Kenny Kaminsky, Labanara, LaDore, Nicholas Piscitelli; sophomores Alessio Fraschilla, Sagnella; plus freshmen Mason Lambert and Ryan Pniewski.
2023 North Haven Golf Team Remaining Schedule
Tuesday, May 23: at Sheehan at Farms Country Club at 2:45 p.m.
Wednesday, May 24: at Amity at Racebrook Country Club at 3:15 p.m.
Tuesday, May 30: at SCC Championship at Farms Country Club at 8:30 a.m.
Monday, June 5: at Division I State Tournament at Tallwood Country Club at 7:30 a.m.
Saturday, June 10: at State Open Championship at Black Hall Club at 1 p.m.