Columbus Golf Wraps Season at State Championship
- Diego Rodriguez Deshon
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
by Diego Rodriguez Deshon
The Christopher Columbus High School Golf Team has wrapped up their 2025 season competing in the FHSAA Class 3A State Championship at the Mission Inn Resort in Orlando on November 11-12. The Explorers traveled to states to compete and face off against the top 16 golf programs in Florida, while having to endure extreme weather conditions that challenged every aspect of their game.
The opening round began with an unexpected one hour frost delay, which introduced the players to what they were up against, with temperatures down to 36 degrees with windchills in the mid-20s. These conditions forced players to adjust their swings and strategies which would be the greatest challenge of all.
“We had to think about how the thermal layers affected our swing and how much the wind and cold would change the ball flight,” said Junior Eduardo Marin
Despite the harsh weather, the Explorers stayed locked in. Sophomore Jake Williams was able to deliver one of the standout performances of the tournament, leading the entire course for 33 holes. He reached 4 under par at one point while going head-to-head with an Auburn commit senior. Williams finished tied 6th overall with rounds of 71 and 77.
“Competing at that level as a sophomore really showed me what it takes to perform under pressure. It pushed me to grow and gave me confidence that I can hang with the best,” he said.
Columbus ultimately finished 9th with a team total of 629 (+53). Senior Joe Fernandez closed out his Explorer career with scores of 84-75 (159), showing determination and grit in his final round. As well as fellow senior Marcelo González posted 164, ending his high school career with pride.
“States was super competitive, and it was the biggest test for our team. I'm so proud of how we fought through the cold and represented Columbus one last time,” said Senior Marcelo González
The squad also included freshman Sebastian Eterovic, who shot 164 in his state championship debut, building valuable experience for the program’s future. Three of the five starters are returning next season with experience and are ready for what is to come. Head Coach Mr. Marinelli explained why the experience mattered so much for such a young group.
“We always go in believing we can win, but with how young we are and the weather being something we’re not used to, it really turned into a great learning experience under true championship pressure.”
Through cold temperatures, elite competition, and two intense rounds, the Explorers represented Columbus with talent, resilience, and pride showing exactly why their future is bright.
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