Scheduling Top Challenge For New Jersey High School Golf

Anthony Palombo of John F. Kennedy High School in Iselin has been coaching scholastic golf for 27 years.

If anything, it means he and his players have seen many, many golf courses.

By the time the season ends, golfers for JFK-Iselin, located in Middlesex County, will have played the sport in seven different counties.

“The scheduling is a challenge in and of itself. Thankfully, our athletic director is very active in finding common dates for us and our opponents,” Palombo said. “The weather this particular year provided a good example as to why it’s so difficult to play golf in the spring in New Jersey.”

Not so long ago, the high school coaches floated a petition of moving high school golf to the fall season, “but it was defeated. Private clubs are tied up with golf outings in the fall,” Palombo said.

Among the courses Palumbo’s team will visit this year are Tara Greens, Colonia, Plainfield West 9, Galloping Hill, Shackamaxon, Sppoky Brook, Tamarack, Darlington, Forsgate and Hopewell Valley, the site of the state high school finals.

JFK-Iselin utilizes Colonia, Plainfield West 9 and Galloping Hill as home venues, depending on the day of the week.

“I think playing different golf courses broadens my players view of golf and their approach to the game. They learn how to manage their games by playing difference courses,” Palombo stated.