The Sullivan County Democrat golf tournament starts today with 68 teams and 9 flights. Sean Semenetz and Joe Winski are back to defend the title for the third time in a row. In this county, it’s all the talk among golfers the past few weeks.  As golf has gotten more popular, everyone wants in. Unfortunately, almost 20 teams didn’t get in. A qualifier might be in order or possibly exemptions for the top 40 teams, then a lottery. 

The committee has been in discussion about ways to improve the tournament entry procedures. 

I’ve been hearing bits and pieces of how teams are playing heading into this year’s tournament. Joe Winski has been recovering from a knee injury and we are not sure if he is 100%. Jared Kubenik has been working hard on his game up here at the Villa Roma. 

Kubenik, a member here, has an advantage, as most winners are either former members or current members. Walter Herzog, a former champ, has joined the Villa Roma this year and has been playing a lot. Herzog and partner Kort Wheeler will be a factor. 

Last year’s qualifying medalists Chuck Husson and Bryan Thomas will be back to try and repeat that effort. A new team that is really a question mark will be Maxx Kleiner (my nephew) and Tom Coyne. Coyne has taken over the Sullivan County golf course in Liberty this year. Coyne has never played at the Villa Roma. 

We all know you could play Villa Roma for many years and still not know how to read the greens. Could be a sleeper final four team. 

Ken Cohen and Mitchell Etess had the toughest draw last year. I expect them to contend once again. You can say the same for two-time champions Bill Phillips and Greg Semenetz. 

Mike Decker and Mike Scuderi, who made it to the final last year ,will also be contending for the title. 

My final four picks are Herzog and Wheeler, Decker and Scuderi, Kubenik and Semenetz Jr. and going with the Kleiner/Coyne team as the last team in the final 4. 

Have a feeling there will be tough first and second round matches that will upset the apple cart. I’ll go with Herzog and Wheeler to get a second title as partners. A 2&1 victory over Decker and Scuderi. Good luck to all.