Every season it seems Bill Schaffer’s first task is finding his team’s identity.With a new cast of competitors and inclement weather keeping them from practicing, the Wright City golf coach typically has to wait to make an accurate assessment of his team’s talent.This season will be no different, as a young crew returns to the course for the Wildcats.“I think we could be a solid team if everyone plays the way they’re capable of,” said Schaffer. “But it’ll be a while before we know our full potential.”One thing is for certain — a pair of sophomores will likely hold down the Top 2 spots on varsity.Griffin Tinker played the No. 1 role much of last season, quickly cast into a lead role during his first year on the team.“He’s a good solid player that we should be able to build the program around,” said Schaffer.Following in the No. 2 spot is Bear Lauber, who also served an immediate varsity role last year.“He and Griffin could both be pretty good players if they learn to putt,” said Schaffer. “They’re both consistent and tend to hit the ball fairly straight.”It’s anticipated that senior Jake Murri will file into the No. 3 spot.“Jake can be very strong,” said Schaffer. “His biggest thing is that he’s not consistent, so he’s got to develop that.”Sophomore Zach Stuart will likely play among the Top 5, with a pair of promising freshmen also vying for those roles.“They can strike the ball well, but we need to see how well they can play the ball,” said Schaffer of freshmen Colton Goldsmith and Josh Rodgers.Seniors Carl Klem and Zach Schmidt also return to the team as veterans.Schaffer expects a successful season would find the Wildcats landing around third or fourth in the Eastern Missouri Conference.WILDCATS RELY ON SOPHOMORESDerrick Forsythe photo.