SUNBURY — The Division III regional at Northstar Golf Club featured strong performances from West Central Ohio programs on Day 1, with four area teams and four individual qualifiers stamping their presence early.

Kalida got off to a solid start as a team and sits among the leaders after round one. Sophomore Paul Stechschulte gave the Wildcats a lift with an outstanding round, carding one under par (71) and standing as the top area individual after 18 holes. Teammate Chris Rall battled the bunkers but finished with an 82.

Van Buren posted a team score that places the Black Knights in contention as well. Senior Ben Heitkamp sank a timely par putt to finish with an 83, while sophomore Jake Schroeder turned in a 79 that included multiple birdie chances. Van Buren’s Jake Schroeder and Heitkamp helped the Knights sit sixth on the team leaderboard after day one.

Botkins, the lone Southwest District representative at Northstar, showed grit through its lineup. Sophomore Treg Meyer closed with an 88, and senior Carson Heuker finished with an 83, helping the Tigers hold a top-10 team position.

Delphos St. John’s had notable individual showings as well. Senior Tyce McClain carded a 76 to land inside the top 10, and freshman Carter Roessner delivered a highlight long putt en route to his round. Crestview’s Mathew Dealey and Ottoville’s Evan Altenburger each shot 78 and are tied among the top 10 individuals after day one. Russia’s Leo Counts posted an 82 while Riverdale’s Nathan Alge sits at 80.

After one round: Kalida sits fourth as a team, Van Buren is sixth (331), Botkins ninth and Delphos St. John’s 11th. Individually, Paul Stechschulte is among the leaders at 71, with Tyce McClain, Evan Altenburger and Mathew Dealey also inside the top 10 positions.

Round two tees off Tuesday, when teams and individuals will resume play to determine who advances to state.

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