Pierson Takes Medal Honors at Central Regional

Jason Pierson (Jefferson HS, Sr.) coming back from an acute back injury last year, showed his former prowess as he won a three hole play off to capture Medalist Honors at the West Virginia Conference Central Regional, played at Canaan State Park October 1-2.

"Jason was first in the clubhouse with two days of 'perfect Par' rounds. After a full field wait, two others, Scott Campbell of championship team University of Charleston and Joey Gossett of 4th place Glenville State also posted perfect 144 two day totals. Off to #10 the three went. #10 showed no real suspense as all three golfers posted pars from about 15 feet out. Hole #11 was a different story though as Jason's drive went awry and found the right rough at about 160 yards out. Both Campbell and Gossert were safely in the fairway 100 yard out. Campbell and Gossert stuck two 10 footers an Jason's flyer lie produced a green position 30 feet away and with a tough ridge to negotiate. Jason could not risk a one putt from 30 feet and wisely slid in just under the pin for his par. Jason finished and put the pressure back on Campbell and Gossert. Gossert was farthest out and slid a birdie attempt just by. Campbell, with the same line also slid by and it was off to the tough downhill 220 yard par three with a strong right to left wind and three bunkers waiting. Jason stroked a smooth 3 iron that drew in tight but finished 30 feet past the hole and above the pin. Campbell's three iron bounced just off the right bunker berm and slid in pin high and 15 feet to the right. Gossert was all but out as his tee shot found the short side bunker and his bunker shot did not release to the pin. With 30 feet of left to right slider starting from the fringe, PIERSON THROATED HIS PUTT FOR THE BIRDIE. Campbell's birdie attempt slid under and by and Jason was the 2001 Central Region Medalist!"

Jason’s effort was still not enough to lift the Rams from 9th place overall in the 15 team field. Justin Pugh, (Martinsburg HS) another senior having a great year placed, in the top ten with a 76 -73 two day showing. Rounding out other players were Ross Shapiro, Mike Masters, and Billy Clusman.

"We placed ninth overall in the 15 team tourney, but one average number either day in the four spot and we would have been 5th. We have some good scoring power, we just can't seem to put up four good scores a round. I think the conference knows we are legit, we only need to maintain focus to make our mark!"

Next match will be October 14-15 at the Fairmont Invitational. Twelve teams have now entered the event.

(From the desk of Coach Mike Jacobs, 304-876-5233, Shepherd College, Shepherdstown, WV 25443)