Paul DiFranco, Northridge senior
One of the team’s best players a year ago, DiFranco returns to the varsity lineup. Now a senior, he will be expected to lead the Knights, according to coach Alan Jankowski. DiFranco tied for 20th at the Class 1A state tournament as a junior and carried a nine-hole average of 37 — a number Jankowski said “undoubtedly” will be better this year.
Michael George, Maine South sophomore
In his first year of high school, George was the second best player on the Hawks. He averaged 43 for nine holes and played at a Class 3A sectional tournament. Along with senior Tim Zelek, George gives Maine South two formidable golfers at the top of the lineup this season.
Skylar LeVine, Niles West senior
Wolves coach Mitch Stern said LeVine is one of the most underrated players in the state and should be getting some looks to play in college. LeVine, who has no offers, tied for second at the Class 3A Glenbrook North Regional as a junior. As a sophomore, he played at the Class 3A state tournament.
Eric Pritt, Notre Dame senior
The team’s best player at the Class 3A Notre Dame Regional a year ago when he shot a 78 and tied for fifth, Pritt has one more chance to qualify for his first state tournament. His presence in the lineup also should help the Dons contend for their first appearance in the state tournament as a team.
Tim Zelek, Maine South senior
At last year’s Class 3A New Trier Sectional — which is one of the toughest sectionals in the state — Zelek shot a 77 and advanced to his first state tournament. He was the first Maine South player to do so since 2010. Zelek tied for 76th at state. Hawks coach Steve Scholl said he hopes Zelek, who averaged 40 strokes over nine holes last fall, will be the team’s anchor this year.
Twitter: @harnesspreps
