RHS junior Achal Agnihotri proved himself to be one of the best boy golfers in New Jersey, placing first at the Morris County Tournament (MCT) on Wednesday, April 30, and placing fourth in the State Sectional Tournament (SST) five days later on Monday, May 5. 

“I’m happy that my work is paying off and I’m excited for what’s to come,” Agnihotri said. 

In the MCT, Agnihotri took the win with an impressive 2-under-par 70, making history as the first Randolph golfer to ever individually win the MCT.  

Practicing and having a good mindset are essential in this sport, as are gaining familiarity with the course and using the best strategies to move forward, which Ryan Zavala, Agnihotri’s coach, agreed are traits this golfer possesses. “Achal is methodical,” he said. “He is precise and deliberate, which are attributes of all great golfers. He spends his time on the range dialing specific parts of his swing.”

At the MCT, Agnihotri scored an impressive eagle, meaning two strokes under par, on hole 11, which ultimately led him to his final winning score. Later in the match, Agnihotri also earned himself two birdies.  

“In matches like these, I find it best to just apply your learnings from previous matches and to just come into the tournament with no expectations,” Agnihotri said. “A clear mind is key to perform at your best.” 

Agnihotri placed well in his next tournament, the state sectionals for North, Group 3, finishing fourth overall, with a total score of 74, only 2 above par.  

“The most important thing I do for these golfers is put together a competitive schedule that gives them the chance to face top teams on top courses,” Zavala said.  

“The team and coaches are all a key part of my performance,” Agnihotri said. “The team is full of friends that bring joy to the game, and the coaches are super supportive, which pushes me to do my best.”