Three Oakton Golfers Advance to Regionals

Though the Cougars fell five strokes short of advancing to the regional tournament, three golfers will bring their skills to the next level after posting qualifying scores at the Concorde District tournament at Twin Lakes Golf Course earlier this week.

Senior Jackson Lizardo (Day 1: 76, Day 2: 86) and juniors John McGuinness (80, 74) and Ho Jae Lee (80, 83) will face off against the region's best Monday and Tuesday.

"Jackson, John and Ho Jae have all just showed signs of brilliance throughout the season. They have some just amazing rounds," head coach Chris Craddock said. "If they play up to their potential, it's going to be hard to beat these guys. ... I'm really proud of the guys and how hard they've worked in the season, and I have no doubt they have the ability and talent to move on from the regional tournament."

Because the team placed third in the district tournament, the season ends for the rest of the Cougar golfers. But Craddock is optimistic about the upcoming seasons, saying his young team fared well against teams packed with seniors.

"The cool thing about our team is we have a ton of juniors and sophomores and even freshman that have had a great year," Craddock said. "We have a young team with incredible potential."

a little more than a week before the start of the season. Despite the whirlwind start, Craddock said he has enjoyed his time as coach and hopes to continue with the Cougars next year, but it's something he still needs to discuss with Pat Full, director of student activities.

"I thought my time this year with these guys was good, so hopefully we'll be able to find a way to keep the train moving," Craddock said.

But that decision likely won't happen until after the postseason run from Lizardo, McGuinness and Lee, which continues Monday for the Northern Region tournament at Twin Lakes Golf Course.