The 2026 WPIAL boys golf season is set to begin, and the anticipation is palpable as teams and players gear up for another competitive year. With defending champions and rising stars, this season promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent and strategy. Here's a deep dive into the top boys teams and players to watch, with a focus on the Class 3A and 2A divisions.
The Top Contenders
Class 3A
South Fayette: Defending WPIAL champions, South Fayette, will be looking to defend their title with a strong lineup. The team's consistency and depth make them a force to be reckoned with.
Abington Heights: The defending PIAA champions bring a wealth of experience to the table. With a talented group of seniors, they are poised to make a strong run at another title.
Peters Township: A team on the rise, Peters Township finished sixth in the WPIAL last year. With five of six starters returning, they have the talent to challenge for the top spot. Keep an eye on seniors Camden Reyes, Jackson Baxter, and Tyler Odrejko.
Fox Chapel: Runner-up in the WPIAL, Fox Chapel brings back individual champion Carson Kittsley, a Penn State commit with a proven track record of success. The team must replace three seniors, but their depth and talent make them a strong contender.
Class 2A
Shady Side Academy: With all six starters returning from their WPIAL championship lineup, Shady Side Academy is the clear favorite. Seniors Alex Avi, Jack Begg, and John DiBaralomec, along with juniors Jay Mohn and Dusyanth Parames, form a formidable team.
Elizabeth Forward: Finishing second in the WPIAL, Elizabeth Forward has a strong foundation. With only one senior starter to replace, they are a team to watch.
Avonworth: A close contender, Avonworth finished just three strokes behind Elizabeth Forward. With a complete starting lineup back, including juniors Chase Hogan and senior Andrew Hetcko, they are a force to be reckoned with.
Individual Stars
Carson Kittsley (Fox Chapel): A dominant force in the WPIAL and PIAA tournaments, Kittsley is a Penn State commit with a knack for maintaining leads. His ability to go low and win back-to-back state titles makes him a top contender.
Nico Ward (West Allegheny): A junior with a strong showing in the WPIAL, Ward finished third with an even score. His performance at the state tournament, where he tied for sixth, further cements his status as a rising star.
Ty Hartman (Thomas Jefferson): Another junior, Hartman took fifth in the WPIAL with a score of +2. His performance at the PIAA tournament, where he tied for ninth, showcases his consistency and potential.
The Road Ahead
The season promises to be a thrilling journey, with teams and players pushing the boundaries of their abilities. The WPIAL and PIAA tournaments will be crucial in determining the champions, but the competition will be fierce throughout.
As the golf season unfolds, keep an eye on these teams and individuals. With talent, strategy, and a touch of luck, the 2026 WPIAL boys golf championship will be a memorable one.
