Huntington High School senior Tyler Gerbavsits is gearing up for the Blue Devils’ fall season, but the team captain has also spent much of his summer competing in tournaments around the tri-state area.

By Connor Beach
cbeach@longislandergroup.com

Though Huntington High School’s varsity golf season is still on the horizon, senior Blue Devil Tyler Gerbavsits, one of the top junior golfers in the metropolitan area, hasn't strayed far from the course.

Gerbavsits, 17, of Huntington, has spent the summer months honing his game and gaining serious tournament experience.

“I play every day; I don’t think I have missed a day this summer,” Gerbavsits said Wednesday. “Getting out on the golf course is the best way to practice.”

Gerbavsits competed in tournaments at two famous, and difficult, courses, Baltusrol in Springfield, New Jersey and Bethpage Black in Nassau. Both courses have hosted the U.S. Open in the past.

Although he enjoyed the conditions and challenges of Baltusrol, Bethpage Black was the highlight of the season, Gerbavsits said.

“Everything was just clicking,” he said of his one under par 70 in LIGA Michael Hebron Amateur Championship at Bethpage Black.

The Blue Devil also traveled to Pittsburgh this summer to represent the Metropolitan Golf Association in the Williamson Cup. Gerbavsits was one of four junior golfers to be selected for MGA team based on golfing ability and his character on and off the course.

“It was a real honor,” Gerbavsits said. “It was one of the favorite tournaments I’ve ever played in.”

The summer months provided Gerbavsits with the opportunity to practice and improve every aspect of his golf game, but he said that putting and chipping are his biggest strengths.

Gerbavsits said his biggest role model in the golf world is former world number one Jordan Spieth because he is “composed, respectful, and appreciates the game.”

For the second straight year, Gerbavsits has been named captain of Huntington’s varsity golf team. The Blue Devils both practice and host matches at the Huntington Crescent Club on Washington Drive.

“I am confident in my game and in the team’s game,” Gerbavsits said, looking toward the upcoming season. The team has a lot of good young players, he added.

For those looking to improve their game, Gerbavsits offered some advice.

While it’s difficult, Gerbavsits said, he tries to clear his mind while standing over a golf ball, preparing for a shot.

And then, “Just go out there and have fun.

“That’s the best way to play the game.”