BOWLING GREEN — The Cougars are headed back to state.
Ben Olewiler shot a 1 over 73 and Crestview punched its ticket to a third straight state tournament with a second place finish at the Division III district tournament at Stone Ridge.
The Cougars carded a team total of 323. Ottawa Hills won with a 311. The top four teams and top four individuals earned a spot at next week’s state tournament at North Star Golf Club in Sunbury.
“With a one day tournament you just hope they don’t have a bad day,” Crestview coach Bob Olewiler said. “You hope everyone shoots at or below their average.”
The younger Olewiler finished runner-up despite twice hitting into the water and taking a quadruple bogey on No. 18, his ninth hole of the day (Crestview teed off on the back nine). He responded with three birdies and an eagle on his second nine.
“I’ve seen him do it so many times during his career,” Bob Olewiler said. “It lit a fire under him.
“I’m not certain, but I’m pretty sure that is the best round he has played at the district tournament.”
Bryce Lutz shot a 80 and Michael Staniford carded an 82. The senior trio of Olewiler, Lutz and Staniford will be making their third appearance at the state tournament.
“They have worked so hard, as have all the kids,” Bob Olewiler said. “It’s good to see all their hard work rewarded.”
Joe Stimpert had an 88. Freshman Jake Salyers shot a 116, but his score was dropped.
The Cougars won a state championship two years ago and finished third last fall. Crestview carded a team total of 325 at last year’s district meet.
“The Northwest District is the biggest Division III district in the state,” Bob Olewiler said. “A lot of the same teams that advanced will be in contention next week. It’s good to have the opportunity to play against them before we get to the state tournament.”
“They have worked so hard, as have all the kids,” Bob Olewiler said. “It’s good to see all their hard work rewarded.”
