Summit Golf’s Grit Shows In Third-Place Sectional Finish

SUMMIT, NJ — With the fairways tightening and the pressure rising at Francis Byrne Golf Course on Monday, Summit’s lineup didn’t blink — grinding out a tie for third at the NJSIAA North Group 3 sectional, just a few strokes off the lead, and proving this team is built for May.In a field packed with undefeated programs and state contenders, Summit finished at 324, tying Randolph High School golf and finishing just behind champion Ridge High School golf (312) and runner-up Tenafly High School golf (323).For a team that started the season 2-3, it’s another statement in a steady climb under head coach Casey Sink — now sitting at 10-3 and peaking at the right time.The scoring was balanced, gritty, and exactly what Summit has leaned on all spring.Freshman Xander Mann led the way with a 78, finishing tied for 8th overall in a field loaded with top individual talent. Right behind him, Frankie Conway carded an 80, while Ethan DiPetrillo added an 81 — both landing inside the top 20. Grady Blackstone and Owen Fagan rounded out the scoring with matching 85s, keeping Summit firmly in contention from start to finish.No one round stole the show — and that’s the point.This was five players, all in it, all day.Summit’s 324 matched Randolph and edged out strong programs like Scotch Plains-Fanwood Raiders golf (326) and Chatham High School Cougars golf (327), reinforcing what Sink has emphasized in recent weeks — depth wins in tournament golf.And the gap? It’s not massive.Twelve strokes from a sectional title. One or two swings per player.That’s the margin now. Because this wasn’t just a solid day.It was a signal. Summit isn’t just showing up anymore — they’re in the mix.Next up, Summit returns to conference play against Chatham on Tuesday.