The Seaside boys golf team is riding a wave of momentum after clinching the Cowapa League Championship at Astoria Golf and Country Club. With a commanding performance over two days, the Seagulls proved why they're the team to beat heading into the state tournament.
Leading the charge was senior standout Xanh Quang, who dominated the field with an impressive 11-stroke victory. Quang posted a two-day total of 148 (4-over-par), highlighted by a stellar 1-under 71 on Monday before closing with a 77 on Tuesday. His consistency and composure under pressure set the tone for the entire squad.
Quang wasn't alone in earning all-league honors. Freshman Will Haag (170) and Dexter Jenks (173) joined him on the prestigious list, showcasing the depth and bright future of the program. Landon Nofield rounded out the scoring with a 182, while Tobin Santos (185) and Gunner Norman (187) provided valuable support as non-scoring players.
The team's total score of 671 was more than enough for the championship, but the real drama unfolded in the battle for second place. With two state berths on the line, Tillamook entered Tuesday's final round holding a slim lead over Astoria and St. Helens. What followed was a thrilling back-and-forth duel that kept everyone on edge. St. Helens mounted a remarkable comeback, shooting 60-over on the final day to erase a three-stroke deficit to Astoria and a seven-stroke gap to Tillamook. The Lions secured the second qualifying spot with a 708, edging out Astoria (712) and Tillamook (720), while Scappoose finished well back at 762.
Though Astoria fell just short of a state berth, the Fishermen had plenty to celebrate. Three golfers earned all-league recognition: Ty Cereghino (173, sixth place), Dominic Rico (177, eighth), and Sawyer Rochon (181, 10th). Benjamin Murdock made a strong push on Tuesday with a team-best 87, finishing at 189 overall, while Sam Bacon posted a 192. The squad's resilience on the final day was a testament to their grit and determination.
Seaside head coach Jim Poetsch beamed with pride after the victory. "To lose three key players from last season and still repeat as league champions is a testament to the work these guys have put in all season," he said. "After being named the highest GPA in the state last week and winning the league this week, we've met two of our three goals. Now we get to return to the state tournament with a chance to repeat."
With their sights set on another state title, the Seagulls are proving that hard work, teamwork, and a winning mindset can take you far—both on the course and in the classroom.