COAL TOWNSHIP -- Ron Ososkie is both an educator and golf coach at Lourdes Regional, so it comes as no surprise when the veteran mentor talks about the 2008 season being a learning experience for his squad.

Billy Ditchey and Troy Brown are the only seniors on the roster, while the bulk of the team will be made up of six sophomores and a freshman.

"There's no doubt that we will be in a learning mode the entire season," Ososkie said. "Ditchey, who is part of the co-op agreement between Lourdes and Mount Carmel, is really our only true veteran player because Brown is out for the first time as a senior."

Sophomore letterman Chris Loftus is likely lost for the year with a torn labrum.

"Most of our players are learning while competing on the varsity level. They are a hard-working group and anything accomplished this season will go a long way towards our success in the future," the coach said.

Ososkie is counting on the leadership of Ditchey, along with help from former Red Tornadoes mentor Dave Dallabrida to guide the Red Raiders through the rebuilding process.

"Our younger golfers look up to Ditchey and he has been a great role model as they watch his approach to playing," Ososkie said. "We need him to lead the way in each match and he's been solid in the first week of competition."

Ososkie is counting on contributions from juniors Elizabeth Rall and Emily Stewart, plus sophomores Neal Khanna, Chris Brokus, Kyle Brown and freshman Ali Singh to improve upon last season's mark of 5-6. Jared Shutt, Brandon Maguire and Sage Stewbleski could also provide help over the course of the season.

Blue Mountain and Pottsville are the leading candidates to capture league honors this year.

"We already have picked up a big win over Schuylkill Haven and each time out provides our golfers with playing experience," Ososkie said. "They are developing quickly and are fast learners, but it still comes down to Ditchey leading the way and the rest of the team contributing to his efforts."