For someone who isn't even in high school yet, Fredonia's Marina Kessler sure made a name for herself this season as she competed at the New York State Public High School Athletic Association golf championships at the College Golf Course at SUNY Delhi.
Kessler shot a 107 on the first day and a 116 on the second day. Though the scores put Kessler in the middle of the pack, coach Alex Conti notes it shows how strong girls' golf is becoming in New York.
"Considering everything, I thought she did a fantastic job," he said. "In previous years, the score she shot was in the mix of top scores from our Section. Girls golf is getting better and better."
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Pictured from left are Fredonia golf coach Alex Conti, Fredonia’s Marina Kessler, Cattaraugus-Little Valley/Southwestern’s Marissa Del Monaco and Southwestern coach Mark Sleggs. Kessler and Del Monaco competed at the New York State Public High School Athletic Association golf championships at the College Golf Course at SUNY Delhi.
Kessler had not scored better than a 56 through the season and was able to shoot a 54-50 in the state qualifier and followed that up with a 51-56 at states
"It's just terrific Conti said. "She had a few more putts at states. The greens were tougher to read. All in all, I thought she did a very good job."
Conti also gave Kessler a big vote of confidence going forward as he compared Kessler to former Fredonia golfer Jen Ringler who made the state championships five times. Ringler shot a 104 her eighth grade year.
"They are very similar," he said. "They have very similar work ethic and very similar focus. They are very comparable. If you're in the same breath as Jen Ringler, you have a very good golf career ahead of you."
