May 17, 2010
NORFOLK, VA--Old Dominion University men's golf coach Murray Rudisill announced the signing of three golfers to letters of intent. Local standout and three-time Southeastern District Champion John Dawson of Hickory High School, Tim Ritter from Virginia AAA State Champion Westfield High School in Chantilly, VA, and James Brockington from Oxfordshire, England who is a member of the English Golf Union Southeast Regional Squad.
"It is great to have two more Virginia golfers signed for next year and especially a local player from Hampton Roads," said Rudisill. "We also have an outstanding player from England coming. I expect these three new players to have an immediate impact on our team for next year. We will have a lot more depth than past seasons."
Ritter, a 5-8, 160-pounder from Centreville, Va. native helped lead Westfield High capture the Virginia AAA State championship with a sixth place finish individual finish at the Waterfront Country Club in Moneta, Va. Ritter also finished fifth at the Districts.
Ritter shot 71-71 to place third at the VSGA Foundation High School Invitation, as Westfield won the team title. He also finished a stroke back at the Charger Challenge at Virginia Oaks after shooting a 69. Westfield High School also finished third at the State championships in 2007 and 2008.
Last July Ritter won the Bobby Bowers Memorial match play, and the MAPGA in BowlingGreen with a 67. Ritter also qualified for the State Amatuer. The son of Elza Ritter, Tim plans to major in business management at ODU.
"I chose ODU because I think coach Rudisill can help me continue to improve my game. I love the Old Dominion campus, the area and I am looking forward to being a part of this program."
John Dawson made four straight Virginia AAA State Championship appearances, captured the Southeastern District crown three straight years and tied Brinson Paolini for the 2008 Eastern Regional medalist crown.
Dawson placed 12th in the State this year after shooting 79-78=157. He shot 70-71-68-74 for 283 For 43rd. He placed 11th at the Amateur Junior Golf Tournament Duncan McMillan Classic with a 74-76-75.
Dawson was named first team All-District and first team All-region four straight years. He was also named first team All-State this year.
"I chose ODU because I wanted to stay close to home and play for a quality program," said Dawson. The CAA is an outstanding conference, and I am looking for the challenge. Dawson is the son of Reynolds and Margaret Dawson. His father is a PGA pro. Dawson also has one sister, Sarah.
James Brockington finished third at the McGregor Trophy which is the English under-16 stroke play. He won four of four matches at the County Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Region. Brockington capped off the season by winning the Oxon Autumn Trophy at the Henley Golf Club. After shooting a 72,he then shot 67 in the final round to rally from four strokes back and take the crown.
Brockington, a three-time junior and senior Henley club champion placed third a the BBO seniors Amateur championship at Burnham Beeches golf club.
"I was looking for a solid college experience, and Old Dominion fits me fine," said Brockington. I also know senior Matt Rendell and sophomore Thomas Wilde," said Brockington. The son of Keith and Linda Brockington plans to major in business or sports management.