A Conversation with Coach Josh Bryant: Inside the Westfield High School Golf Program
We sat down with Coach Josh Bryant to learn more about the Westfield High School Golf Team, the program’s history, and what’s ahead for the 2025 season.
About the 2025 Westfield High School Golf Team
What are your expectations for the 2025 season?
We have high expectations with nearly our entire varsity roster returning from last season’s state runner-up team. We only graduated three seniors—Clark Schwartz, Cohen Steill, and Michael Bostic—so we’re entering the season with an experienced, competitive group.
Who are key returning players and emerging talents to watch?
Four-year starters Jake Cesare and Will Harvey headline this year’s team. Jake was the 2024 Individual State Runner-Up and a three-time All-State selection, committed to Indiana University. Will is a two-time All-State player, 2024 Regional Champion, and committed to Purdue. Both are ranked in the top 125 nationally.
Other returning players include Jack Harris (Sr.), Mitchell Keene (Jr.), Hudson Kutchma (Jr.), Ryan Cesare (Jr.), and Brayden Worthington (So).
What are the team’s strengths going into the season?
We have strong senior leadership, tournament experience, great character, and exceptional short-game skills.
What goals are you aiming for?
Our goals are consistent—compete at our best, play in the final group at state, and have fun.
How has the team prepared in the off-season?
Preparation began as soon as the 2024 State Finals ended. This group played over 215 competitive rounds through summer and fall, participated in fall Ryder Cups, took PGA lessons, and committed to winter strength training.
What standout moments from last season will inspire this year’s team?
Last year’s team set records for lowest 18-hole score (276, -4) and score to par (279, -9), won Regionals, and finished as State Runner-Up.
What challenges do you anticipate this season?
Indiana has deep talent, especially in our sectional and conference. We have to bring our best every round.
How do you build team culture and sportsmanship?
We focus on “Better Together, Farther Together” and “Outwork, Outlove.” Off-season activities build relationships across grade levels. This winter, over 60 boys and girls (grades 7–12) participated in our strength training program, fostering a tight-knit, values-driven program.
Any upcoming tournaments you’re excited about?
We have a strong schedule. Highlights include the Sultan’s Run Invitational, State Preview, Woodland Invitational, and HCC Conference Tournament at Bear Slide.
What advice do you have for aspiring golfers?
Golf rewards consistency and commitment. Every player on our team has put in countless hours of practice and tournaments. It all starts by taking that first step—practice, lessons, and playing as much as possible.
About the Program’s History and Success
What’s the history of Westfield High School Golf?
We made our state debut in 2013 with our first championship. Before 2012, the program had never qualified for state. Our community has been instrumental, especially through junior golf at clubs like Woodwind, Bridgewater, and Chatham Hills.
What are some of the program’s top achievements?
We’ve won three state titles (2013, 2015, 2016), finished runner-up four times (2014, 2022, 2023, 2024), and placed top-three in 2017. Two players—Timmy Hildebrand (2014) and Andrew Lewis (2018)—won the IHSAA Mental Attitude Award.
Any notable alumni playing in college or professionally?
Yes, including:
• Timmy Hildebrand, Thomas Lewis, and Andrew Lewis (Purdue)
• Jeremy Ray (Taylor)
• Josh Kehl (Master’s University)
• Evan Bone (Ball State)
• Nolan Hall (DePauw)
• Timmy Leonard (Franklin)
• Matt Shull (Tennessee Tech)
• Alec Cesare (Indiana University)
Several others, including Ethan Lutz, Brennan Decker, and Max Kaufman, have pursued professional golf management careers.
What contributes to the program’s sustained success?
It starts with great families, talented players, and strong support from our community and school. Local courses and junior programs have been key. We’re also working on expanded access, including an indoor practice area. Local sponsors can support us via the Booster Club or Rocks Junior Golf Club.
How has the program evolved under your leadership?
Coaching stability has been a big factor. Our mission is simple: make Rocks Golf one of the most rewarding experiences in a young person’s life.
About the Westfield Middle School Golf Team
How does the middle school program help develop future players?
It gives many their first taste of team golf and competition. Our coaches do a great job creating a fun and competitive environment that sets the foundation for high school success.
What skills and values do middle schoolers learn?
We focus on short-game fundamentals, ball striking, course management, and the mental aspects of the game—resilience and discipline.
Any standout middle school players on the horizon?
Yes—we have a strong group of young talent ready to keep the program competitive for years to come.
How do middle and high school coaches collaborate?
We maintain open communication. High school coaches attend practices and matches, helping build early relationships and a smooth transition for incoming freshmen.
A Special Shoutout to the Coaching Staff
A huge thank you to our incredible coaching staff! Their time and dedication help players succeed on the course and develop leadership skills for life. Our program is about more than golf—it’s about building strong, resilient young men.
2025 Boys Golf Roster
Coaches:
Josh Bryant, Marc Abriani, Joe Chaille, Duane Lutz, Joey Cohoat, Chris Wilkes
Seniors:
Soren Baker, Cooper Bohn, Jake Cesare, Jack Harris, Will Harvey, Dylan Hughes, Trey Kremer
Juniors:
Cash Ballard, Ryan Cesare, AJ Cooney, Brock Detamore, Brody Eureste, Mitchell Keene, Hudson Kutchma
Sophomores:
Aiden Campbell, Beckett Chapman, Keaton Chapman, Colby Crandall, Sean Hess, Jude Kaufman, Jackson Payne, Brayden Worthington
Freshmen:
Cade Camp, Keaton Knott, Chris Koscal, Cord Kremer, Will Lowery
