Evanston’s Gruger making name for himself on golf course

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Updated: November 9, 2011 11:00AM

Henry Gruger won’t sneak up on Evanston head coach Jed Curtis anymore.

In less than a month, the sophomore boys golfer has earned a varsity promotion and won a dual meet. Curtis should be convinced that Gruger can be counted on to contribute in 2011.

The highlight of Gruger’s season came early last week when he shot a 3-under-par 31 at Park Ridge Country Club to help Evanston post a 144-151 win over Maine South. It marked the first time that Gruger earned team medalist honors.

Curtis believes Gruger’s total is the program’s modern-day low for nine holes. Gruger, who registered three birdies with no bogeys, missed only one green, but he made a lengthy putt to save par.

“He just played fantastic,” Curtis said. “He’s been dancing around some really good rounds and playing well this season. It was exciting to see him put it together for a full nine holes. That was a huge confidence-builder for him.”

The rest of the Wildkits had reasons to be proud, as well. Jackson Mihevc posted a 37, while James Hageman and Evan Termolen added a 38 each.

Later in the week, Evanston beat Young 161-166. Mihevc led the way at the Wilmette Golf Club with a 2-over 37. Oliver Wood, a late addition to the lineup, shot 39.

“He’s really started to play well,” Curtis said of Wood, who carded a 37 in a match against Maine West on Aug. 25. “He’s risen to the occasion.”

Senior Brad Meliska followed with a 42, and Gruger rounded out the scoring with a 43.

Evanston has a big match against New Trier — which placed second in the state last season and owns nine championships — at Wilmette Golf Club today. “It’s a great opportunity for our kids,” Curtis said. “That’s an awesome program with a great coach. The kids are looking forward to going head-to-head with them. We are going to have to play our best, and we will see what happens.”

The Wildkits then play in Zion-Benton’s tournament.