Matt Cordan is Libertyville’s consistent anchor

Consistency has been key for Libertyville golfer Matt Cordan.

Part of that is learning to sometimes take the safe route instead of always trying the “heroic shot.”

“I’ve learned to punch [the ball] into the fairway and get it on the green,” Cordan said.

Sean Matthews, Libertyville varsity boys golf coach, said he can count on Cordan to shoot in the 70s and 80s on a regular basis. That has been critical this season as the team has struggled.

One bad shot can throw guys off track, Cordan said, and the team needs to find its rhythm.

“We just have to be more consistent as a team,” Cordan said. “It’s just whether or not they can focus.”

Cordan is the team’s only returning varsity player. He’s played for Libertyville all four years, and enjoyed getting to play with his brother, John, who was a senior when Cordan was a freshman.

“I love the fact that, as a golfer, I’ll be able to golf throughout life,” Matt Cordan said.

Matt Cordan said he excels off the tee but needs to work on his putting. He said he’s mostly improved upon course management and playing smart.

Another standout on this year’s varsity team — made up of two sophomores, four juniors and three seniors — is Jacob Mueller, who Matthews said is learning to stay positive.

There have been a couple surprises this year, Matthews said, adding that he thought the team, which has four invitationals left, would be a bit stronger.

“We can’t seem to get it together at the right time,” Matthews said.

Several players have had good showings with scores in the 70s, but they’re not happening on the same day.

The team shot a 159 to Mundelein’s 145 on Sept. 16, placed seventh at an invitational at Ivanhoe Country Club Sept. 15, and came in second place at an invitational at Spring Valley Golf Club Sept. 13.

“If we can start gelling here in the next few weeks, that would be great,” Matthews said.

The team faces a challenging regional this year, Matthews said, with some new competitors like Highland Park and Deerfield.

“It’s definitely more competitive,” Matt Cordan said.