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Sept. 15, 2003

By Chris Graziano, Villanova Media Relations

The Villanova golf program has fallen on hard times recently, but if anyone can lead a return to excellence, it is current captain Matt Gugino.

Gugino had a lot to say about being a golfer at Villanova, and it is clear that he approaches his life both on and off the course with a positive attitude.

"This is the best team I've seen in my four years here," said Gugino. "We have a group of eight guys that are extremely solid and the chemistry couldn't be better. I really believe that a top-10 or top-five finish in the district is a possibility."

This sounds like wishful thinking considering that Villanova finished 27th in the district last year. But if you get to know Gugino, you'll start to believe in what he says.

The past two summers have been rewarding for the Villanova senior. He probably could have spent the summer at the beach or hanging around with his friends, but instead he decided to take advantage of two extraordinary opportunities.

Following his sophomore year, Gugino studied abroad in Italy. The six-week program was made up of about 100 American students, 40 of whom came from Villanova. The group studied in such fantastic cities as Florence and Rome. For Gugino, the experience taught him a lot.

"Being in another country really helps you see the big picture," said Gugino. "In terms of golf, it shows you that you shouldn't really let one bad shot bother you. It's all about how you bounce back from things."

The Leroy, N.Y. native bounced back this past summer with an activity that surely was not as glamorous as six weeks in Italy, but was certainly important. He spent a few months working for the American Junior Golf Association, which took him to sites such as Tampa Bay, Fla., Chicago, Ill. and State College, Pa.

Traveling in vans and trailers, Gugino would help organize tournaments for the kids, while also helping them with their golf. While the interaction was most likely cherished by the children, Gugino gained, "a more complete understanding of the rules of golf and an increased respect for the game."

But respect is not a concept that is new to Gugino. As he points out, his coaches at Villanova, Jake and Joe Moran, have taught him plenty about values that are essential to a good golf game and a healthy lifestyle.

"Our coaches obviously know the game of golf, but what is great about playing for them is that they focus on how to make you a better man. I've learned a lot from them, and what I've learned has also helped me play better golf," said Gugino.

Head coach Jake Moran, when asked about Gugino, returned the praise, saying, "We think he is a very dedicated person, a good leader."

The Morans will look to their captain to help stop a downward spiral that the program has recently fallen victim to. Last season, Gugino did not play in a majority of tournaments due to illness. But when he's on the course, Gugino can be counted on most for his driving accuracy. As he puts it, "I don't hit it long, but I try to be consistent. If I can hit greens, make par and continue to improve my putting, then I can be successful."

"I'm proud to be the captain this year, and I think that because I have this title, a lot of people will be looking at me to do certain things. I like the pressure, and I want to get it done."

And after talking with Matt Gugino, it would be surprising if he didn't get it done, which means the Villanova golf program is in good hands.