Scarlet Hawks boast strong mix of veterans, young talent

By Chris Villani

The win-loss record has not been what Milford High golf head coach Jay Potty would have hoped for at the beginning of the season, but the Scarlet Hawks are both competitive right now and showing promise for the future with a talented group of freshmen.

“We have played well, but we have been nipped by a shot or a couple of shots in some matches,” Potty said. “They have kept their heads up high, and they have been battling.”

Aidan Eastman (swinging) is one of Milford golf's leaders this fall. Courtesy photo

 One of the most impressive aspects of this year’s MHS team is its skill on the road. Potty said some of the team’s best performances have come away from the Hopedale Country Club, where Milford enjoys a home course advantage.

“I have been doing this for over 20 years and this team might be the best road team I have ever had,” he said. “They just seem to go out there and play better. We have had some of our best matches on the road and played some good golf on some hard golf courses. We just haven’t taken care of business as much at home as we would like.”

Upperclassmen Ricky Nashawaty, Eli Johnson, and Aidan Eastman are three of Milford’s steadiest players this fall. Potty said all three routinely average in the low 40s for a nine-hole round. Lucas Richard has also improved throughout the season and has been playing some of his best golf down the stretch, Potty said.

Freshmen Hank Richards and Ben Richard are two of MHS’ emerging talents.

“They have been excellent all season long,” Potty said. “They have played in every match, and they are a nice, welcome sight for the future.”

Domenic Martinelli is another freshman who earned significant playing time this year, and figures to be more of a factor over the final handful of matches. Milford also has seven freshmen on the junior varsity team.

“Our future is looking bright, with a lot of young guys coming up,” Potty said. 

Milford secured just a single victory through the first 10 matches of the season, but Potty said his team is focused on finishing the year strong in addition to building for the years to come.

“We want to continue to play hard and stay positive on the golf course, just shot-by-shot,” he said. “Our guys focus on their next shot, their next hole, just one thing at a time. If we keep battling, we know the wins will come.”

Ricky Nashawaty poses with fellow senior Jack Anderson. Courtesy photo