The Reynolds men’s golf team has been nothing short of dominant this year, in large part due to the consistent play of senior golfer Davis Gilmore. Luckily for the Demons, their play is beginning to get hot at just the right time.

27 strokes separated the Demons from the second place Reagan Raiders in the Central Piedmont Conference tournament at Bermuda Run – West. In team play, the Demons continued their hot streak last Monday at the regional tournament in Pinehurst, coming in second by a mere three strokes to the three-time defending state champions, Pinecrest.

With a season stroke average of 36.4, Gilmore, known to many in the Reynolds community by the nickname “Diesel,” barely edged out longtime teammate Blake Brantley to win the CPC Player of the Year. The duo lead the six Reynolds golfers who received a spot on the 12-man all conference team. Other Demons receiving all-conference honors were Logan Fant, Bennet Fant, Jordan Fant, and Richard Dull.

Despite a one-stroke loss, sophomore Brantley couldn’t think of anyone he’d rather lose to.

“Diesel and I are good friends, if I’m going to lose to someone at least it’s him,” Brantley said. “He’s worked really hard this season and he’s such a great guy, it’s rewarding to see him win.”

Gilmore and Brantley were neck and neck all season, so it ultimately became a friendly battle for the teammates.

“Obviously it was going to make me mad to lose to a sophomore,” Gilmore joked. “But now that everyone is playing well and we’ve been winning all year long, we all have a lot of confidence going into states.”

In a season full of notable rounds, Davis’ last CPC tournament is one he will always remember.

“The highlight of my year was shooting 74 in the conference tournament,” Gilmore said. “It was pouring down rain and I made an eight on my first hole. I was able recover, and ultimately put up a score that put me in first place for the CPC season.”

Another noteworthy performer for the Demons as of late is freshman Logan Fant. Perhaps the hottest player on the team, Fant fired a tournament- low 73 in the Conference Championship, and another tournament-low 72 at Regionals. With three underclassmen making all conference, the future of the program appears bright.

“The next couple years, me and my team could do some damage,” Brantley said. “The future is in good hands, and hopefully we can continue the winning legacy at Reynolds.”

With confidence at an all-time high, the Demons are also finding motivation from the name “Sarge” printed on the sleeve of their golf shirts, and the green ribbon on the back of their hats. There is no doubt that the demons will be playing for their late coach, Lewis “Sarge” Green, in Pinehurst this week at the first state championship since his passing in September.

With a chip on their shoulder, Diesel and the Demons are looking to show everybody that they run the state of North Carolina.