VCU GOLF ADDS A PAIR FOR 2010
12-9-09

RICHMOND, Va. – Virginia University Head Golf Coach Matt Ball announced the signing of a pair of recruits for the 2010-2011 academic year on Wednesday.

No signee has been as near and dear to Ball’s heart as his son, Matt Ball Jr. Matthew, as he is known in the Ball household, finished 20th in a field ripe with collegians this summer at the 2009 Eastern Amateur. He also posted a top 25 finish in the State Open of Virginia.

In 28 competitive rounds over the summer, Ball recorded a 71.52 stroke average. He also reached a sudden-death playoff at the North/South Junior after carding a final round 69 on the famed Pinehurst #2 course.

“Matthew really showed me a lot this summer with how well he handled really difficult courses and consistently solid rounds,” the elder Ball said. “He has already proven his ability to succeed at the next level and I really look forward to having my son close by for the next four years while representing my alma mater.  It will be my privilege to continue to aid in his development.”

Rocky Khara, a native of Sebring, Fla. has extensive experience on both the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) and the Future Collegians World Tour (FCWT), two of most elite tours in the country. Khara has bagged a number of tournament championships, including the Mayakoba Junior Classic this summer.

A star at Lakewood Ranch High School in Bradenton, Fla., Khara qualified for the Class 2A state high school tournament the last three years. 

“Rocky is a very solid striker of the ball and a good course manager,” Ball said. “He should have no problems adjusting to the more difficult and longer courses of college golf.”

Khara chose VCU over offers from Michigan, Louisville, Michigan State and Cal-Irvine, according to the East County Observer.