District News

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- The Union Redhawks boys’ golf team enters the 2026 season with growing numbers and clear goals in mind. Under the leadership of coaches Colson Ceglarek and Jamie Devoe, the program continues to build momentum.

 “We only had two kids my first year coaching four years ago, and now we have a full JV team too,” Devoe said. “It has turned out to be very fun.”

This season, the Redhawks are focused on steady improvement and stronger finishes. Ceglarek emphasized both individual development and team competitiveness.

“I think one goal is growing individually as players,” Ceglarek said. “I’d love to see my varsity be competitive in most of the Jamborees this year.”

At the center of those expectations is senior standout James Fowler.

“Our number one golfer, James Fowler, needs to make states this year,” Ceglarek said. “He’s truly that good.”

Fowler’s performance last season showed just how close he is to achieving that goal. He tied for 10th at regionals out of more than 100 golfers and advanced to a three-person playoff, where he battled through multiple holes before narrowly missing a state berth. That experience now fuels both his motivation and the team’s shared focus this spring.

Fowler is backed by teammates who each bring their own strengths to the course. Sophomore Benjamin Harris excels in driving, while fellow sophomore Ari Ostrow shines with his short game. Senior Nathan Mayfield III brings a different edge: mindset.

“I think my attitude is a big part of my game,” Mayfield said. “There are good days, and there are bad days, but I’m always positive.”

That mental approach is a key focus this season.

“Overall, they’re good golfers and they can score, but they just have to believe they can,” Ceglarek said. “Our kids’ attitudes are incredible. Having a bit more confidence will help them tremendously.”

Players are also developing routines to stay focused on the green.

“I focus on the next shot, not the last,” Ostrow said, “and I take a moment to enjoy the scenery.”

Harris emphasized preparation, saying, “I focus on getting good sleep, and I listen to music while I practice.”

The players’ goals for the season reflect both personal and team ambition. Ostrow aims to shoot 90 in 18 holes, while Harris is hoping to come in under 75. With a chuckle, Mayfield added he wants “to get better than my coaches.” As a team, the Redhawks hope to place top three in one of their Jamborees. Perhaps most importantly though, they are all rallying around their number one hitter: “We want to get James to state,” Mayfield declared.

That collective mindset extends throughout the program, including a growing JV group. Freshman golfers Jesse Bott, Chance Hammingh, and Tristan Walton will add depth as they continue the program’s steady development.

With experience, emerging talent, and a true “all-for-one” mentality, the Redhawks are poised to turn last year’s near-misses into this season’s successes.