By Titus Mohler

Correspondent

Sophomore Ben Hunter has begun a revision of the golf record books at The Apprentice School with his exemplary performances on the course.

Hunter posted five wins in the 2011-2012 season and broke the record for lowest average score for the entire year. He expressed excitement over the achievements.

“It means a whole lot, whole lot,” he said. “I mean, words really can’t even explain it. It’s just a great feeling to have had the success that I’ve had.”

Apprentice School coach Joey Maben put Hunter’s new record into perspective.

“My son, B.J. Maben, had the record of 75.9, and Ben moved to 75.04,” he said.

B.J. had held the record since the 2005-2006 season. He currently serves as assistant coach for the golf team at the school.

While considering Hunter’s career at the school, Joey Maben recalled another remarkable accomplishment.

“Probably the neatest thing that I’ve seen is in 2010,” Maben said “He won the USCAA National Championship at Penn State, and he won that by shooting even-par, 144.”

That was his freshman year and 144 currently ties the record for lowest two-day total.

“The other record that we track is the career scoring record,” Maben said.

In his four years, BJ’s career average was 76.65 after 79 rounds. Hunter currently holds a 76.33 career average after 46 rounds in two years and a career-defining record may be within his grasp.

Far from arrogant, Hunter is conscientious about giving credit to those who helped him succeed. First, he singled out Greg Hunt, founder of the Southeast Junior Golf Academy.

“He really drove me to being the golfer that I am today,” Hunter said.

He also made a special point of commending both Joey and B.J. Maben for their guidance and support. The admiration and respect is mutual.

“The neatest thing about Ben is he is very quiet and very humble on the golf course,” Joey Maben said. “Ben is just a fine young man, a team leader, (and he’s made) coaching very easy for me and B.J.”

Hunter’s goals show that he is out for more than just personal success.

“My main goal is to win the Apprentice School a national championship,” he said. “I’ve earned that honor individually as a freshman, but my goal is to bring the Apprentice School their first (team) golf national championship.”