Kevin Wang and Quinlan Hood Excel at NYSPHSAA Championship

This week, a pair of Eagles soared alongside some of the top high school golfers in the state, as Kevin Wang and Quinlan Hood teed off at the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) Championships held at Mill Creek Golf Club in Churchville, NY from June 7-9.

The duo were selected to participate on the team representing Section 1 by virtue of their top-9 finishes at the sectional tournament last week, marking the first time in Eastchester history that two EHS golfers competed alongside each other at the state championships. Wang—a senior who has been a mainstay at states since his freshman year—finished ninth overall, earning yet another All-State selection in the process. Hood, a junior, was competing in his first-ever state championship event and finished 24th out of 99 competitors. 

Eastchester coach Frank Fiore noted that while the state championships might have been uncharted territory for Hood, qualifying for the event has long been one of the junior’s top aspirations.

“We’ve talked about it the last couple of years and Quinlan’s goal was to make states,” said Fiore. “He had the skills, he made the most of his opportunities to improve, and he finished eighth at sectionals to give himself that opportunity.”

Fiore also credited the dynamic between his two captains with ensuring both standouts raised their games over the years. 

“100 percent, that was a big part of it; they’re not only helping each other out on the course, they’ve also been pushing each other to do better,” said the head coach. “You could see the effect they had on the team and each other, even in practices.”

Wang will graduate in two weeks, having written a tremendous chapter in the history books of Eastchester athletics. A four-time all-state selection, Wang will go on to play golf at Iona University next year. 

“Kevin’s contributions to this program have been priceless,” said Fiore. “When you look at what he’s been able to accomplish, it’s easy to say he has been the best golfer in the school’s history and is right up there in the conversation about the best athletes as well.”

As for Hood, Fiore said he is excited to see the determined junior back in action next year with another season of varsity success under his belt. 

“Quinlan will be back as a captain next year, and I think he’s going to continue to serve as a leader and an inspiration for other players on the team,” said Fiore. “His work ethic is unmatched and he will be a great guide for other members of the team who are trying to improve.”