Despite losing the school’s all-time average scoring leader, Brandon Caniff, SSU Golf Coach Roger Merb feels the 2003 team has tremendous potential.  The Bears are returning nine players off of last year’s squad, which won one tournament and finished 5^th in the AMC.  “I am very excited about this year’s team.  They have worked hard in the off season to improve on their all-around game and they should vie for the conference championship,” stated Coach Merb.   

Leading the returning players is Junior Heath Chamberlin (Wheelersburg, OH), who is returning with a 78 scoring average.  “Heath has made a steady improvement over the past two season.  I look for a strong showing for the 2003 spring season.  I fully expect Heath to contend for all conference honors,” stated Coach Merb.  

Junior Matt DeHart (Franklin, OH), who medalled in the Urbana Invitational, will also compete for all conference honors.  “Matt has a very solid all-around game and should be a strong candidate to win AMC Conference Tournament.  His ultimate success depends on some improvement in his short game,” said Coach Merb. 

Seniors Eric Welch (West Union, OH) and Josh Skeans (Portsmouth, OH) return as well.  Welch carried an 80.6 scoring average and they both will play a major role in the Bears success this spring. 

Juniors Mike Spriggs (Southshore, KY), Brad Washburn (Ironton, OH), T.J. Dillow (Ironton, OH) and Justin Perry (Ashland, KY) all have the ability to put up impressive numbers and they will all contend for a spot in the top five this spring for the Bears.   

Rounding out the roster is the lone Sophomore Jason Van Dusen (Portsmouth, OH).  Jason participated in three tournaments for the Bears last spring and will also compete for a spot in the top five. 

Shawnee opens tournament play at the Lincoln Memorial Golf Classic March 24-26.  They will return home to host the Shawnee State Invitational on March 31.