,Belchertown, September 1, 2025
News Summary
The Belchertown Orioles are off to a promising start in Western Massachusetts Division 2, entering the season with a mix of seasoned senior players and talented rookies. With a strong core led by veteran leader Michael Murray and impressive freshmen showing exceptional talent, the team is ready to make a significant impact this season. Having already won their first two matches, they look to continue this momentum against rivals like Frontier while Coach Matt Stenuis navigates a deep roster for optimal performance in the league.
Belchertown: Orioles Eye Western Massachusetts Division 2 Crown with a Mix of Seasoned Hands and Exciting Rookies
Belchertown is buzzing and the golf course is the place to be. The Belchertown Orioles roll into the season with a veteran-heavy core and a clutch of youngsters who are already turning heads. After a drop from Division 1 to Western Massachusetts Division 2, this squad looks primed to make the most of the change in scenery — and they mean business.
Senior presence, freshman fire
The Orioles bring six seniors to the fold, and four returning starters, creating a balance of experience and continuity that coaches dream about. At the front of the pack is Michael Murray, widely regarded as one of the top players in the area and the clear team leader. He’s backed by seasoned seniors Collin Laragy, Nathan Fink and Ryan Shea, giving the lineup dependable scorers and steady nerves in pressure moments.
On the flip side, Belchertown’s younger talent is anything but shy. Two juniors, Andrew Wright and William Mitus, made instant impressions in their first match by shooting in the low 40s. Freshmen Wesley Hill and Luke Heroux are already flagged as special prospects — both have competed in Junior PGA events, showing skill levels well beyond most kids their age.
Coaching and depth
Head coach Matt Stenuis has a luxury problem: 11 players he trusts, making lineup decisions a delightful headache. With that kind of depth, Belchertown can afford to mix and match depending on course conditions, opponent strengths and tournament format. The coach has set high expectations for Murray to shine in both Western Mass. and the state tournaments.
Early season pulse
The Orioles started hot at 2-0 and are set to face Frontier next — a matchup that will further test the young guns and the seasoned core. If the opening results are any gauge, this team is ready to stay competitive deep into the season.
The rest of the field: who to watch
The Western Mass. landscape has several other squads ready to pounce. Northampton will be led by seniors Reed O’Connor and Xavier Nteta, but the Blue Devils are working without graduated siblings Galen and Reilly Fowles and currently sit at 0-2. The Amherst roster is looking for a bounce-back after a rough year, counting on captains Ben Scott and Owen Howard for stability and juniors like Phineas Pyecroft and Graham Van Giessen to chip in.
The Amherst Golden Hawks under coach Joe Whalen are eyeing steadiness with an expectation to keep scoring around an average of 40 to 42 this season. Easthampton hopes to rise with top returner Amelia Gruber and some fresh faces bolstering their chances. South Hadley, led by coach Jason Bourque, brings momentum after a fourth-place finish in last year’s Division 2 tournament and wants more of the same.
Frontier will play in a retooled Suburban League and aims to improve on last season, while the Hampshire Raiders have started strong at 2-0, leaning on juniors Brayden Fennessy, Riley Florek and Cole Boissonneault. Meanwhile, Smith Vocational is entering its second varsity season, bringing back many players from a balanced 5-5 campaign.
Events and early-season markers
Mark the calendar: the annual Two-Ball Boys Golf Invitational is scheduled for September 30 at Cold Springs Country Club, featuring 54 competitors. For teams and players alike, invitational fields like this provide a solid temperature check on where squads stand and who’s peaking at the right time.
What this all means for golf fans
If you like drama, emerging stars and tight competition, this Division 2 season has a little bit of everything. Belchertown’s mix of veteran leaders and precocious young talent gives them the look of a serious contender. But with several programs returning experienced players and others hungry to climb, we’re set for a competitive stretch of golf where momentum, depth and clutch play will decide who raises trophies.
FAQ
Who leads Belchertown this season?
Michael Murray is the top player and projected leader for Belchertown.
What is Belchertown’s roster makeup?
Six seniors, four returning starters and several promising underclassmen, including juniors and freshmen who have already shown strong form.
How did Belchertown start the season?
Belchertown opened the season 2-0 and will face Frontier next.
Which other teams are contenders to watch?
Keep an eye on Hampshire Raiders (2-0), South Hadley, Amherst, Northampton, Easthampton, Frontier and Smith Vocational for competitive showings.
When is the Two-Ball Boys Golf Invitational?
The invitational is set for September 30 at Cold Springs Country Club with 54 competitors.
Quick Reference Table: Teams, Leaders and Early Notes
| Team | Key Players/Leaders | Early Record / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Belchertown Orioles | Michael Murray; seniors Collin Laragy, Nathan Fink, Ryan Shea; juniors Andrew Wright, William Mitus; freshmen Wesley Hill, Luke Heroux | 2-0; bumped to Division 2; deep roster (11 trusted players) |
| Northampton Blue Devils | Seniors Reed O’Connor, Xavier Nteta | 0-2; graduated siblings Galen & Reilly Fowles |
| Amherst | Captains Ben Scott, Owen Howard; juniors Phineas Pyecroft, Graham Van Giessen | Looking for turnaround; focus on stability |
| Easthampton Eagles | Amelia Gruber (top returner) | Bringing back top player plus new talent |
| South Hadley Tigers | Coach Jason Bourque leading | Finished 4th in last year’s Division 2; aiming for repeat strong showing |
| Frontier Redhawks | Remade Suburban League roster | Hopeful for improvement from last year |
| Hampshire Raiders | Juniors Brayden Fennessy, Riley Florek, Cole Boissonneault | 2-0; viewed as leaders for the team |
| Smith Vocational | Returning core from last season | Second season as varsity program; 5-5 last year |
| Event Note: Two-Ball Boys Golf Invitational — September 30 at Cold Springs Country Club; 54 competitors. | ||
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- GazetteNet: High School Golf Preview
- Wikipedia: Belchertown, Massachusetts
- GazetteNet: Michael Murray Leads Belchertown
- Google Search: Belchertown golf
- MassLive: WMass Boys Golf Roundup
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
- MassLive: PVIAC Boys Golf Invitational Pairings
- Google News: High School Golf
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