Newton golf captains lead teams through successful spring season

Through all of the ups and downs, not only during the entire season, but during a single round as well, the Newton High School golf program (girls and boys teams) were in good hands with the capable senior captains Nick Deiorio and Haley Morodan leading the way

“These two student athletes over their career as a part of the Newton golf team have shown a willingness to help others, a desire to improve their own games and a dedication to the program,’’ Newton coach Bryan Bitondo said. “They are two student athletes that always put others before themselves and the team’s goals ahead of their own.’’

Both captains have very much proven themselves on the course this spring.

“Nick has been our scoring leader over the past two years.’’ Bitondo said. “He has a scoring average of 5.8 over par. He placed fourth in the Hunterdon Warren Sussex Golf Championships and helped to lead our team to a third place finish in that tournament. He also has a leading average in the Freedom Division of the NJAC (Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference).

“Haley has been our scoring leader for three years. This year her scoring average is 8.5 over par. She won the Hunterdon Warren Sussex Golf Championship by four strokes. She placed fourth in the NJAC Golf Championships. She has the leading scoring average in the North Section of the NJAC.’’

Bitondo has proudly seen the two seniors consistently become better golfers.

“Both students have continued to develop their game that allows them to score at a variety of courses,’’ Bitondo said. “They help in setting up drills and running different game improvement stations. They help collect and transport equipment and they are a vital part of the daily operations of our program.’’

Morodan and Deiorio are very helpful when it come’s giving advice and encouragement to their teammates.

“Haley has helped to make our girls program very competitive,’’ Bitondo said. “In previous years, we struggled to get a win throughout the season. This year we have had six wins and were competitive in all our matches. She has taken a leadership role with our strong crop of freshman golfers and guided the returners to learn how to improve their scores on the course.

“Nick has helped lead our team to one of the stronger teams in the county. With his leadership, Newton Country Club has become a tough place for visitors to come in and get a win. He has developed a strong understanding of the course and has relayed that information to his team. He often gets groups together to play in the offseason and on weekends, which has made everyone on our team better.’’