CHENANGO FORKS – After winning the 2022 STAC East Division last year, the Norwich Purple Tornado Golf team began its 2023 season against a tough Chenango Forks. Norwich knew Forks would be a hard competitor again after falling short last year, but the Purple Tornado went in with optimism as an experienced team.

Norwich and Chenango Forks tied at 206 each, where the sixth score was put into play in the even match. Norwich won the tie-breaker as Aidan Stafford’s 45 was better than Forks’ 50.

Norwich’s Jacob Morris led all golfers with a 38 as Forks had two golfers tied with a 40. Jacob Dowdall, Julien Smith, Braden Reid, and Matthew Brunick all shot a 42 to conclude Norwich’s top five on the day.

The Norwich J.V. team also picked up a close win against Forks, 248-250 with Carmine Pastore leading the Purple Tornado with a 44.

“It was an expected nail biter that was very evenly matched,” Coach David Branham said. “Always a good feeling when you win, especially on the road.”

Norwich is right back at it on their home course at Canasawacta this morning against Windsor with an 11 a.m. tee-time.

Results:

NHS (206): Jacob Morris 38, Jacob Dowdall 42, Julien Smith 42, Matthew Brunick 42, Braden Reid 42.

CF (206): TJ Testa 40, John Maus 40, Kellen Mulesky 41, Mike Rullo 42, Bauer Maus 43.

Tie-Breaker: Aidan Stafford (N) 45- Chenango Forks’ Tony Sergi 50. Norwich wins.