By ROB CURTIS
Staff Writer
 

"This was my best score of the year," Brunero said. "Also, the team's performance might have gained new respect from other teams."

Though Brunero's play helped gain the win, the overall dominance of the Bobcat golfers sealed the victory. The team recorded four good scores with Peter Coleman and newcomer Peter LaCasse, shooting 81 and 80 respectively. Both Brunero and team Captain Tim Sargent turned in rounds under 80, with Sargent shooting a 76. "Nick's sub par round was outstanding. I cannot recall the last time an opponent or a team member had a sub par round," Bates coach Bob Flynn said. "I was, however, happiest to see the team score so well; a 307 is the best we have had in a number of years."

The team's 307 was a substantial improvement from earlier play. The previous totals lingered around 340 points and above. The improvement of thirty or so strokes put the teams ability into perspective.

Second year Captain Tim Sargent, an All-NESCAC golfer last year, has been consistent again this season. He led a young squad with only two other seniors, Peter LaCasse and Chris LeBlanc. Though a younger player, Brunero has been low ball scorer for Bates in each of his outings. Coach Flynn was "not surprised, but pleased" to see Brunero's scores. "Brunero has shown he is capable of shooting well, and it is pleasing to see him realize his potential," Flynn said.

The rest of the Bobcats played solid behind the top five, (Coleman, LaCasse, Brunero, Delehanty, and Sargent) but until last week had yet to put the pieces together. The Southern Maine Invitational could be seen as a moral booster of sorts, and may have been the mark of maturity for this Bates squad. If the team continues to set its sites down the fairway, perhaps they will keep their success rate. The season is almost over and the CBB Championships will be over before this issue goes to print but no matter, there is much potential to be realized within these golfers.